Stevens 44 vs 44 1/2 actions

[geronimo.tn]

Anybody know how to tell the difference between a Stevens 44 and a
44 1/2 action just by looking at the outside of the action?

[Double D]

From Dehaas Single shots.  

The 44 1/2 is made from a forging the 44 from a casting. If you can get a look at the interior and it looks like cast iron it is a a 44.

The 44 1/2 also has a milled recess for the block to ride in. The 44 block pivots on a hinge.


With the levers open you will see a toggle and link  conecting the lever to the rotating block with the 44.

The 44 1/2 has the lever connected to the block pulling it down