Ruger Model 44 Carbine .44 Magnum Semi-Automatic Rifle MFD 1981 C&R

Sold for $4026.00

LSB#: 220801WP017

Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.

Model: 44 Carbine

Serial Number: 102-96281

Year of Manufacture:  1981 (Ruger Serial Number Lookup)

Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum (.44 Mag)

Action Type: Tubular Magazine-Fed Semi Automatic Rifle

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with the Ruger Warning, “STURM, RUGER & CO. INC. / SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.” and with a Ruger proof mark (next to the receiver). The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number, “RUGER CARBINE / .44 MAGNUM CAL.”, with the Ruger logo, and “®”.

Barrel Length: Approximately 18 1/2 Inches

Sights/Optics:  The front sight is a brass beaded blade atop a raised barrel mounted base. The barrel mounted rear sight is a flip-up “U” notch with white diamond aiming reference that is adjustable for elevation. The top rear of the barrel and receiver are factory drilled, tapped and filled with 2 screws each that can be used to secure an optic base.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The wood stock has a pistol grip, barrel band and a plastic buttplate. The buttplate shows scuffs. The wood shows a few small scattered scrapes & scratches. The LOP measures 13 1/2 from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock is in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The muzzle and grooves are semi bright. The rifling is sharp & deep. There is fouling in the grooves and at the muzzle which should clean up some. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The top of the receiver shows a few small scratches. The loading gate is scraped. The metal shows light handling marks and dried oil residue. The barrel shows some light discoloration. The screws show light use. Markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine 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: The rifle comes in its original cardboard storage box.

Our Assessment: The forbearer of the 10/22, and frankly all subsequent Ruger rifles, the 44 Carbine 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. It was machined making it a rarity among most Ruger firearms. This gun will make a perfect hunting companion as it is light enough to carry in the field for long periods of time and has the power to take down threats such as mountain lions. We have always wondered why Ruger stopped making these but until they start production again you’d do well to buy this one. This 44 Carbine should do well in the field or at the range. Good luck.