Stevens Model 44
J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company · Rifle · Discontinued · 1894
Also known as: Stevens Ideal No. 44, Stevens Ideal Model 44, J. Stevens Ideal 44
Overview
The Stevens Model 44 is an American single-shot falling-block (drop-lever) target and sporting rifle introduced in 1894 by the J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company of Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts. Operated by an underlever that lowers the breechblock, it was offered with a heavy part-octagonal barrel in a wide range of rimfire and centrefire chamberings including the popular .32-40, and became a mainstay of the golden age of American single-shot Schuetzen and offhand target shooting. Its interchangeable-barrel design and reputation for fine accuracy made it one of Stevens' most enduring rifles, with roughly 100,000 produced.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3290 g (116.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1020 mm (40.16") |
| Barrel Length | 660 mm (25.98") |
| Action Type | Falling Block |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Set Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Internal |
| Muzzle Velocity | 435 m/s (1427 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1011 J (746 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 200 m (219 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .32-40 Winchester · primary — also known as .32-40 Ballard, .32-40 WCF, .32-40
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Hammer
- Features: Single Shot, Octagonal Barrel, Underlever, Interchangeable Barrel, Tang Sight Option, Schuetzen Target Rifle
Variants
- Stevens Model 44½ — Stronger Action
Service history
Operators
- Civilian target and Schuetzen shooters
Production
Estimated total produced: 100,000 · Production years: 1894-1916
Approximately 100,000 produced across rimfire and centrefire calibres; the No. 44 action was largely superseded by the stronger 44½ from 1903.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Joshua Stevens
Discontinued: 1916
Notes
The lighter No. 44 action handled target loads well but tended to shoot loose under the heavier .32-40 and .38-55 hunting loads, which led Stevens to introduce the stronger 44½ falling-block action. A Model 44 owned by Annie Oakley sold at auction for $528,900.
Background
The Stevens Ideal single-shot rifles defined American Schuetzen and offhand target shooting around the turn of the 20th century, and a Model 44 once owned by sharpshooter Annie Oakley remains one of the most prized examples of the line.