Stevens Favourite info

[ErikT]

Gentlemen, I have had an old Stevens Favourite takedown rifle in .32 rimfire sitting in my gun locker for years now, and I would like some info on it, if possible. It is still in functional shape, with the exception of impossibility of ammo supply. The metal is pitted everywhere, and the bore is dark. The serial number, as far as I can tell, is F534, stamped on the bottom of the tang. The barrel is half-octagonal, and the entire rifle has all original parts. Any info, including current value in poor condition, would be appreciated. Thanks.

Erik.

 

[ben hunchak]

Value is minimal as it is not antique due to caliber, Ammo is diff. to find, barrel can be relined to .22 lr, and extractor reworked.....value in orig. fair to good condition $125, we have a couple in the shop that aren't moving at that.

 

[trevj]

There are a couple different versions of the Favorite, and there is not a huge difference in them, except to a collector.

FWIW the "serial" number is more of a lot or batch number. There are lots of duplications out there, and as far as the scholars have been able to determine, the numbers do not relate to any particular sequence or date, so really do not provide much useful info.

A reline to 22 cal, and avoid the high velocity shells, is probably the best bet, if you want to keep it. It should sell OK at $150 or a bit less, if in merely decent shape, maybe a bit more if really in good to great condition.

Check at the local public library for any of the DeHaas "Mr. Single Shot" series of books, or for Grant's "Boy's Rifle" books for betterinfo on variations.

Don't even consider rechambering to a 32 pistol cartridge, as the action isn't gonna take it for long, having a cast frame, and all the loads taken up on some pretty skinny screws.

Cheers
Trev

 

[SandRoad]

Dixie gun works sells an adapter that uses an offset 22 blank (or short with bullet and powder removed) and you fill the case with black powder (pyrodex) and seat a 32 cal lead ball as the projectile.