Restoring a Stevens Favorite 22LR

[Old Moss]

   Afternoon Gents.  I needed help. I have a Stevens Favorite 22LR single shot that my Grandfather taught me how to shoot on!  This is an original favorite three digit serial number but the sentimental value is priceless.  I want to restore it and keep as much of it as original as possible.  I want my grandkids to learn on this gun as well.  The stock is cracked, there is less than 20% finish left on it.  the bore is completely corrodied (old mercury primed 22s, thats how old it is).  The Barrel - the outside measurement accross the barrel is 0.63" and the flats are .265" rifling visible but in bad shape, Yes I have cleaned it with everything and finished it with JB Bore cleaner, No help.
      1.  Is there enough metal in the barrel to install a 22LR barrel liner?
I really want to make this gun a shooter without totally replacing the barrel.

      2.  I'm pretty sure I can refinish the metal and replace the sights and fix the stocks. 

Any tips or advice?

         3.  Who could install the liner and safety check the action (maybe even tune it up a bit)?   

I'm not rich and yes maybe I could replace it with a new gun but it just wouldn't be the same

Help  Thanks Old Moss

[Nobade]

I'd recommend talking to Randall Redman, in Washington (I think). He makes and installs liners and does great work. I had him do a Martini Cadet a few years ago, and it worked out great.

[gunnut69]

Redman Liners is a great place but I don't know if they do all kinds of smithing. There are several smiths who do restoration work amd those that are really good are very busy. The barrel is large enough to reline and if the liner is welded into place it's difficult to tell the work was ever done.  One of the premiere restoration smiths is Doug Turnbull. I can't find his address at the moment but I'm sure there is a website.. Good luck..

[2520]

I have done this several times.  Do the safety check in step 3 first.  The steel in the old Favorites is not the best.  Nearly anything can be fixed and parts are available.  Redman liners are very good and are available to the trade so any good smith should be able to do your barrel.  Stocks are available from several stock makers.  If your butt plate is still in one piece, guard it carefully.  They are worth about $20.00.  None of the work is terribly expensive, but it is not hard to put the price of a new Favorite into a restoration.  Duplicating the original case hardened finish is probably the most expensive part.   But, as you said, it would not be the same and you will have a better rifle.  Good luck..

[iiranger]

Visit their site and pick up the measurement and eye ball your barrel. It won't be cheap, but this is exactly what they sell them for. They might, also, be able to recommend a smith in your area. As said, you will probably spend more than the price of a new gun on the re build. You might want to hang it on the wall and buy a 2nd for the kids training. Then they will have 2 someday and todays might just be a bit better quality... luck