J. Stevens Model 44 ½ Ideal .38-55 28″ Long Rifle Falling Block C&R
SOLD FOR: $1575
WOA#: WY230512DK005
Make: J. Stevens A&T Co.
Model: 44 ½ Ideal
Serial Number: 90 47
Year of Manufacture: 1903-1916, C&R
Caliber: .38-55
Action Type: Single Shot Falling Block Rifle
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “J. STEVENS A. & T. CO. / CHICOPEE FALLS, MASS. U.S.A.”. The front of the receiver is marked “44 ½ EX 0 0”. The bottom of the barrel is marked, “9047 2”. The lower tang is marked, “90 47”.
Barrel Length: 28”, 1/3 Octagonal 2/3 Round.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded target sight with bubble level dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a buckhorn with elevation riser dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is installed with an aperture peep sight. The top of the barrel has also been drilled, tapped but not filled for the provision of mounting a scope.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are smooth walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, and crescent metal buttplate. There are some scattered light handling marks including some small nicks. The left side of the forend has a crack that has been professionally fixed and the forend restored. There are some scattered scratches. The LOP measures approximately 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has some scattered light handling marks and minor thinning. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is minor spotted corrosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. There are a couple of light scratches on the barrel, a patch of finish wear at the muzzle and some light surface oxidation throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Fine condition. There is some minor pitting on the octagonal portion of the barrel and on the sides of the receiver and on the lever.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Stevens Model 44 and Model 44 1/2 rifles were produced by the J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company, a prominent firearms manufacturer that operated from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. These rifles were part of a series of single-shot, falling block action rifles that gained popularity among target shooters and hunters during that time.
The Stevens Model 44, introduced in 1894, was the original design of the series. It featured a falling block action mechanism, which is a type of breech-loading system where a lever is used to lower the breechblock, allowing the chamber to be accessed for loading a single round. This design was known for its strength, simplicity, and ability to consistently lock up tightly, ensuring repeatable accuracy.
The Model 44 had a heavy octagonal barrel, typically made from high-quality steel. The octagonal shape provided increased rigidity and reduced barrel harmonics, contributing to improved accuracy. The rifle was initially chambered in popular cartridges of the time, such as .22 Long Rifle, .25-20, .32-20, and .38-55 Winchester.
Introduced in 1903 and ending production just a few short years later in 1916, Stevens introduced an improved version of the rifle called the Model 44 1/2. The Model 44 1/2 incorporated several design enhancements, including a refined action and an improved trigger system. It also featured a wider range of caliber options, catering to the preferences of target shooters and hunters. The Model 44 1/2 was chambered in various cartridges, including .22 Long Rifle, .22-250, .30-30 Winchester, .38-55 Winchester, .45-70, and more.
Both the Stevens Model 44 and Model 44 1/2 rifles were highly regarded for their accuracy and craftsmanship. They were popular choices among target shooters, especially in the realm of long-range shooting competitions. The rifles were also appreciated by hunters for their reliability and precision.
Today, the Stevens Model 44 and Model 44 1/2 rifles are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance and timeless appeal of these classic single-shot firearms. They represent a bygone era of firearms design and craftsmanship, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of single-shot rifles.