Ruger Model 44 Carbine 25th Anniversary .44 Rem. mag 18.5″ Semi-Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,630.00
LSB#: LSB251109DC137
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: 44 Carbine 25th Anniversary
Serial Number: 103-13284
Year of Manufacture: 1985
Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s 2-line warning & Southport address. The right side of the barrel is marked “1961-1985 / 25TH ANNIVERSARY”. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number, and “RUGER CARBINE / .44 MAGNUM CAL.”, along with the Ruger logo.
Barrel Length: 18.5″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade, dovetailed to the integral barrel ring. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up U-notch sight, dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth wood, with a semi-pistol grip, straight comb, plastic crescent buttplate, and a banded forend, with sling studs front and rear. There is a medallion inlaid into the right side of the buttstock, marked “RUGER .44 CARBINE 25TH ANNIVERSARY”, with the Ruger logo. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows light storage and handling wear, with only a few light scratches and dings scattered throughout. The stock’s finish is intact, and the stock fits tightly to the barreled action with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good to Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some light pitting present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling and operational wear, with some missing finish at the loading port, and some superficial imperfections on the top of the receiver. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are lightly tooled, but retain serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the cross-bolt safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its original serial number matching box, and owner’s manual/paperwork.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Model 44 Carbine 25th Anniversary commemorates one of Sturm Ruger & Co.’s most distinctive sporting rifles, marking twenty five years since the original .44 Carbine was introduced in 1961. Designed as a compact, fast-handling semi-automatic rifle chambered for a powerful revolver cartridge, the Model 44 filled a unique niche for woods hunting, offering quick follow-up shots and practical power in a trim package. The 25th Anniversary edition, produced in 1985, adds commemorative markings and a factory medallion that set it apart from standard production carbines.
This example presents very well overall, retaining approximately 98 percent of its original blued finish. The 18.5 inch barrel shows a bright bore with sharp rifling, rated 8 out of 10 due to light pitting, while the exterior metal surfaces display only minor handling and operational wear, most notably at the loading port. The commemorative walnut stock remains attractive, with only light scratches and dings from storage and handling, and it fits tightly to the action with no structural issues. Markings are clear and crisp, and the anniversary medallion in the right side of the buttstock remains intact and well defined.
Mechanically, the rifle functions correctly, with the semi-automatic action operating as intended and the cross-bolt safety working properly. Combined with its original serial-number-matching box and owner’s manual, this rifle represents a well-preserved example of a desirable commemorative variant from Sturm Ruger & Co.. It offers both historical interest and practical appeal as a classic Ruger carbine from the mid-1980s. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.
