Stevens single shot model #'s?

[Selmer]

I have a single shot Stevens in .22LR that does not have a model # on it anywhere.  It is a bench rest rifle with beavertail forend and it's a falling block with a single trigger and hammer, and I've been told by several people that it's a 44 1/2, and then one of them recanted and the told me after I sent them some more close-up pictures that it's a model 404, but I haven't found any info anywhere on a model 404 Stevens, does it exist?  If any of you are Stevens buffs I can email you pictures, the rifle was manufactured in the early 20th century and was purchased with a Stevens 6x scope.  Any info is very welcome.
Sincerely,
Selmer

[SAWgunner]

Not a Stevens buff by any means, but I thumbed through my Gun Trader's Guide and here is what I found.

There is no 404, but there is a model 44 that is a rolling block single shot.

Model 44 is described as such for the .22 variant:

Rolling Block, lever action takedown.  Bbl lengths, 24' and 26' (round, half octagon, full octagon).  Weight: 7lns w/26' round bbl.  Sights: open rear;Rocky Mountain front.  Plain staight grip stock and forearm.  Made 1894-1932.

There is a 44.5, falling block and is described as follows:

Falling block.  Lever action rifle.  Aside from the new design action intro. 1903, specifications of this model are the same as thoseof model 44.  Model 44X disc. 1916.

The prices for these are:

Model 44 Ideal single shot: New in Box $744, Ex $595, Good $405
Model 44.5 Ideal Single shot: NiB $938, Ex $750, Gd $510

Hope that helps a little bit.

SAWgunner

[Selmer]

Yeah, thanks for the info, I already have checked that out, thats why I'm confused.  I'm guessing it must be a 44 1/2, because it's definitely not a 44, it's not a rolling block action, it's a falling block.  Thanks for your help!
Selmer

[jaberegg]

Yes Stevens made a model 404, in 22rf, refered to as the semi military model. They were nice guns, had one.

[Joel]

That semi-military model was the model 414(stamped on the back of the top tang).  also known as the "amoury model".  I owned a mint condition one for years until our local preacher talked me out of it.  Had a 26" barrel, 1" in diameter,and could be taken down by a large screw in the bottom of the receiver.  Stock was 3/4 length with a large beaver tail portion forward of the guard.  It was made specifically for the National Guard as a practice/target Rifle; they shot/met in the national guard armouries.  Mine would shoot incredibly small groups. Orignally came with a Marbles or Lyman globe front siight and a stevens model 44 rear peep.  Paid $85 dollars for mine in 1968,sold it two years ago for 550

[jeff]

The Stevens 44 and the 44 1/2 models are both falling block actions..

Neither is a rolling block.  The 44 is the weaker action and was rimfire only.  The 44 1/2 action had more beef in it and was chambered in centerfire calibers as well as the rimfires.

You might consider posting your question on the http://groups.msn.com/Schuetzen board, there are several folks there that will be able to identify your rifle.

jeff

[2520]

Most Stevens rifles do not have a model number on them.  Often the only difference in the various models are the sights.  It can and is very confusing.  A good source of information is Grants Single Shot Rifles.  Check your local library for a copy or they may be able to borrow a copy from another library.  The Model 44 action is a swinging block action much like the smaller Favorite.  The 44 was made in rimfire and centerfire-2520 single shot, 32-20, 38-55, and many other black powder cartridges.  It is a weak action and easily stressed with modern loads.  The rimfires pose no problems.  The 44 1/2 action is a true falling block action and is very strong capable of handling most any modern rimmed cartridge.  Sounds like you have the Armory model.  The rear sight is a Lyman made especially for this model. The tang is drilled and tapped for sight as well.  Stevens rifles were well known for their accuracy.  Another good source is Dehaas Single Shot Actions.   2520