Single Digit J. Stevens Model 10 Target .22 LR 8″ Single Shot Pistol, C&R
SOLD: $1,380
LSB#: 200626BB29
Make: J. Stevens Arms Co.
Model: Model 10 Target
Serial Number: 6
Year of Manufacture: 1919
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Tip-Up Single Shot Manually Cocked Pistol
Markings: The left side of the chamber is marked “J. STEVENS ARMS COMPANY / CHICOPEE FALLS, MASS. U.S.A.”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “6”. The right side of the chamber is marked “TRADE MARK / STEVENS / REG. U.S.PAT.OFF & FGN”. The flat of the frame underneath the chamber, bottom of the chamber that contacts the frame, and the bottom of the extractor are all marked with the serial number “6”. The top of the barrel is marked “Pat. App’d For”.
Barrel Length: 8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a wide blade that is dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch that is screw adjustable for windage (left screw) elevation (right screw), and is dovetailed into the frame.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber. The checkering has smoothed lightly with use and has a couple compressed peaks. The smooth portions have some very light compressions and scuffs. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dull and the rifling is worn but clearly visible where not interrupted by erosion. There is light to moderate pitting scattered throughout.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. The edges have finish loss. The frame has scattered spots of discoloration from previous oxidation. The butt of the grip frame has some little scratches. The barrel has some little scuffs, a few nicks, and some faint frost. There is some erosion on the bright portion of the muzzle. The barrel has a few small scabs, most noticeable to the left of the front sight. The grip frame has some mottled thinning which is starting to patina. The trigger guard has a few fine scratches. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are strong. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good Plus-Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This gun is certainly an interesting design, upon first glance one might think that it is just another semi-automatic rimfire, but it is actually a manually cocked single shot. During the design period Stevens collaborated with some of the target pistol experts of the time. They determined that the pistol needed to have a good weight for a steady hold, a nice grip profile to prevent straining the wrist of the shooter, and sights tailored to target shooting. They achieved what they wanted, the 8-inch barrel provides just enough weight to get a steady hold without the barrel dipping, the gun has good ergonomics, and a nice set of adjustable sights. This C&R handgun would make a good addition to a Stevens collection, especially considering it has single digit serial number! Please see our photos and good luck!