Thread: A Stevens 22 RF

The difference is that the 044 1/2 frame is 1/8" narrower
So very subtle

The first one I brought from a gent in Oamaru. He thought it was a 44 1/2 and despite it having no fore end the model markings were visible but hard to read
That was a 32 RF and is now a 22 LR

My second is a standard 22 LR from a Timaru antique arms auction.
It was pretty tired and very dirty ( no harm in cleaning the barrel for an auction )
Plenty of guys looked at it and I heard several comment about it being an odd Favorite!
It was cheap enough and cleaned up well.
Needed pins and as usual the take down screw was shagged.

My third was another 044 1/2 32 RF from Southland.
This 32 RF had a reasonable looking bore. So I converted the breech block to center fire and chambered to 32-20.
It shoots 120 grain cast lead powder coat gas check bullets really well with a small load of Trailboss.

So there are three of an uncommon low production model that have been sucked into the black hole of my collection

They are considerably stronger than the Favorite
Have a much smaller barrel shank than the 44 1/2
And are really maxed out on a 32-20

They are a fantastic man size 22 LR hunting rifle
Too light in the English model to be a target rifle