RUGER Carbine 44 Sporter M44SP .44 Mag Semi-Auto Rifle, 1963 C&R Williams
SOLD FOR: $1425
LSB#: 220114RL025
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Carbine Sporter (Catalog No. M44SP)
Serial Number: 100-08490
Year of Manufacture: 1969 (Ruger Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum
Action Type: Magazine Tube-Fed Semi Automatic Rifle
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “STURM, RUGER & CO. / SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.”. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number, “100-08490”, “RUGER CARBINE / .44 MAGNUM CAL.”, the Ruger phoenix logo, and “®”. The phoenix logo is marked also in the grip cap and the buttplate.
Barrel Length: 18 1/4”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into a banded base that is integral to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up u-notch with a white triangle aiming reference. The top of the barrel and receiver are drilled, tapped, and filled for mounting rails and sights. While no optics are installed, the rearward-most portion of the receiver is filled with an adjustable Williams peep sight.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth wood with grooved forend, capped pistol grip, Monte-Carlo comb, and a serrated black polymer buttplate. There are just a few notable nicks and compressions on the front of the grip and the right side of the comb. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP (length of pull) measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate is free of any notable wear or damage. Overall, the stock is in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is still mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but a bit of light stubborn fouling can be seen scattered about.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. A few light nicks through the finish as well as a few longer shallow nicks dot the barrel; these marks are most evident along the top and on the underside just ahead of the forend nose. There are very minor hairline scuffs throughout the receiver along with minor thinning on some edges. The screws have minor toolmarks with strong slots, and all markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This rifle includes a vintage framed advertisement.
Our Assessment: On offer here is the classic Ruger .44 Magnum Carbine, now long out of production but beloved still. The forbear of the 10/22, and frankly all subsequent Ruger rifles, the Carbine, or Model 44, formerly the Deerstalker, hasn’t been produced since 1985, but collectors desire this rifle even today. Unlike most Ruger firearms, this was not a product of investment casting, but rather was machined, making it a rarity even among other Ruger guns. The 44 Carbine is sharp looking, with classic lines and wonderful in-hand feel. This example is the sporter version with a deluxe Monte-Carlo stock; included also is a Williams peep sight in addition to the standard sights. This gun will make a perfect hunting companion, in any field environment, and has the power to stop nearly any mid-sized threat yet is light enough to carry in the field for long periods of time—a comfy sling will make this classic rifle a pleasure use. We have always wondered why Ruger stopped making these, but until they start production again, you better buy this one. Good luck and happy bidding!