^Lot 112 J. Stevens No. 40-1/2 New Model Single Shot Pocket Rifle with Matching Shoulder Stock

J. Stevens No. 40-1/2 New Model Single Shot Pocket Rifle with Matching Shoulder Stock, #51288, .22 LR cal., 12'' barrel, full blued finish, smooth hardwood grips, flip-up Beach front sight, fixed rear sight, and Vernier peep tang on the backstrap. Includes the skeleton shoulder stock and attaching screw. Barrel address is marked in two-lines ''J. STEVENS A. & T. CO./CHICOPEE FALLS, MASS. U.S.A.''. There is also a small ''I'' within a circle stamped on bottom of the frame. Visible matching numbers on the frame, barrel, and shoulder stock. It is estimated that approx. 2,500 were manufactured circa 1896-1915. Overall condition is very good, retaining approx. 65% toning blue finish, showing wear particularly along the barrel and front of the frame. Barrel address is clear. Grips with intermittent dents and handling marks, largest are on the left side. Action is crisp and operates smoothly. Bore is mostly bright with well-defined rifling. The accompanying skeleton shoulder stock is in fine condition, showing some areas of moderate toning. Est.: $700-$900. (C&R/PPT) (Michael Strietbeck Collection)