Stevens Model 71 Favorite

Savage Arms (Stevens) · Rifle · Discontinued · 1971

Also known as: Savage Model 71 Favorite, Stevens Favorite Commemorative, Model 71 Stevens Favorite

Overview

The Stevens Model 71 Favorite is a single-shot rifle using a lever-actuated falling-block action, released in 1971 by Savage Arms as a limited commemorative reissue of the classic Stevens Favorite. Chambered for the .22 Short, Long and Long Rifle rimfire cartridges, it pairs a 22-inch octagonal barrel with a color case-hardened receiver, walnut stock and crescent buttplate. Just 10,000 were built, each carrying a Joshua Stevens portrait medallion and gold-filled 'Favorite' lettering.

Specifications

Weight (empty)2100 g (74.1 oz)
Overall Length940 mm (37.01")
Barrel Length559 mm (22.01")
Action TypeFalling Block
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity1 rounds
Magazine TypeInternal
Muzzle Velocity340 m/s (1115 fps)
Muzzle Energy150 J (111 ft·lbf)
Effective Range100 m (109 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWood
FinishCase Hardened

Calibers

Features

Production

Estimated total produced: 10,000 · Production years: 1971-1972

Limited commemorative run of about 10,000 rifles produced by Savage Arms in 1971

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Joshua Stevens

Discontinued: 1972

Notes

Commemorative revival of the 19th-century Stevens Favorite; features a color case-hardened receiver, gold-plated lever and hammer, brass front sight blade and rear elevator, and a Joshua Stevens medallion inlaid in the stock. Roughly 10,000 were produced in a single 1971 run.

Background

A nostalgia piece rather than a working tool, the Model 71 revived Joshua Stevens's beloved boys' rifle a century on, gold lettering and portrait medallion turning the humble Favorite into a collector's keepsake.