Which mag for a Ruger Deerstalker?

[corncob]

A friend is looking for one for another friend for a present. He has determined that the rifle is the "deerstalker," not the "deerfield." Does anyone know if the magazines interchange (99/44 mags are still available new from Ruger)? If not, could someone describe the old style? He will need some help figuring out just what he's looking for and where to start looking. Thanks, everybody.

 

[Onmilo]

The semi auto 99/44 Deerfield does not use the same magazine as the 96/44 lever action that does not use the same magazine as the 77/44 bolt action.

"Deerstalker" is a name Ruger used for the old version .44 Magnum semi auto carbine which uses a fixed, non-detachable four round tubular magazine.
Confused yet?
Call Ruger in Newport New Hampshire:
603-865-2442 8-5 est
Give them the serial number of the gun and they can fix you up with a magazine.

 

[corncob]

He swears it says "Deerstalker" on it clear as day, and that it has a big empty magwell. He also said he couldn't get anything useful out of the girl on the phone at Ruger without the SN (which he doesn't have as it's not his rifle).

 

[dmazur]

It is possible that the Deerstalker might look like it has an empty magwell when you turn it upside down. The skeletal loading ramp isn't solid.

If it is the Deerstalker (older) .44 carbine, it doesn't have a removable magazine (as Onmilo said.)

 

[tinroad37e]

Deerstalker

I have two 99/44 carbines, and both say "Deerstalker" on the left side of the receiver.

 

[ruger66]

I am sure they say Deerfield.

 

[tinroad37e]

You're right!

 

[corncob]

Yeah, my friend finally got someone at Ruger who knew something and confirmed that all the Deerstalkers were tube-fed. He thinks that his buddy's rifle might be somewhat broken (possibly missing part of the lifter entirely), but didn't look that close when he had a chance. And since asking would spoil the surprise, he's just going to give the Standard Gift (booze). Thanks for your input, everyone.

 

[ruger66]

Here is a Deerstalker!!