3099

Desirable Stevens "Ideal" Model 51 Factory Engraved Schuetzen Rifle with Target Sights

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,750.00 - 5,500.00 USD
Desirable Stevens  Ideal  Model 51 Factory Engraved Schuetzen Rifle with Target Sights
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Estimate: $3750 - 5500
This is a fine example of a Stevens Ideal Model 51 single shot Schuetzen rifle. This model of rifle was basically an upgraded deluxe version of the standard Stevens Walnut Hill target rifle that was manufactured from 1896-1916. This model was specifically equipped as standard with the following features: scroll engraved receiver, double set triggers, deluxe checkered walnut straight grip stock and forend, heavy weight #4 barrel, nickel plated double prong Schuetzen buttplate, short loop leer with two-piece wood panel insert, and a globe front sight and vernier tang mounted rear sight. These were built in a variety of calibers in both center fire and rimfire. The top of the heavy barrel is marked in two line: "J. Steven A&T CO./CHICOPEE FALLS MASS. PAT. OCT 29. 89" and the left side of the barrel is marked with "SHORT" only, indicating the caliber is of 22 Short. It has a Stevens globe front sight, with no provisions for a rear sight. The barrel is marked on the underside with the matching serial number of "4049". The sides of the receiver have deluxe factory engraving that consists of the scroll engraved patterns with a Labrador retriever on the left side and a squirrel on the right. The consignor stated that this rifle originally belong to Michael Dorrler, (however no documentation accompanies this rifle to support this) who was from the Hudson Gun Club in upstate New York. He was a noted expert marksman in the 1910-1930 era and was a contemporary of other very famous rifleman such as Harry Pope, A.O. Zischang, Arthur Hubalek, and the Zettler brothers to name a few.
BBL: 28 inch part octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 22 RF Short
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 4049
Condition: Fine. The barrel retains 75% of original blue finish with some muzzle and higgh edge wear, and some thinning on the top flat. There are a small amount of fine nicks on the barrel as well. The receiver and lever retain traces of original case colors with the balance a smooth gray patina. The factory engraving is good overall, still visible but showing wear on the flats on both sides. The buttplate retains half of its original nickel plated finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The refinished wood is very good, with beautiful grain in the buttstock area and most of the finish remaining, minor handling marks and crisp checkering. There is a repaired crack on the wrist. A small finger rest was added to the loop lever. The modification is very old and are contemporary to the rifle. A very nice example of a scarce and desirable Stevens Ideal Model 51 target rifle.