Ruger 44 Carbine “Deerstalker” .44 Magnum Semi-Auto Rifle 1971 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,434.00
LSB#: LSB250929HR026
Make: Ruger
Model: 44 Carbine
Serial Number: 100-22722
Year of Manufacture: 1971
Caliber: 44 Mag
Action Type: Semi-Auto, gas piston
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked, “Ruger Carbine 44 Magnum caliber” and the serial number. The top of the barrel is marked “Sturm Ruger and Co, Inc, Southport, Conn, USA”
Barrel Length: 18”.
Sights / Optics: The top of the receiver and top of the barrel are drilled and tapped for optic mounting. There is a front blade sight is dovetailed into the barrel band and a folding rear sight is dovetailed into the barrel. There is a 4x Redfield scope in Weaver Pivot mounts. We have no knowledge on internal function of the scope.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one piece smooth walnut, pistol grip, raised comb, serrated plastic buttplate. There are scattered handling marks, scratches and dings throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks rate in about “Good” overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 4 Round tubular.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates about a 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is scattered corrosion and pitting throughout and some scratching on the barrel. The screws show minor tool marking but are serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Sling and scope
Our Assessment: Ruger’s .44 Carbine, introduced in 1961 and later marketed under the “Deerstalker” name, was one of the earliest commercially successful semi-automatic sporting rifles chambered in .44 Magnum. By 1971, when this example was produced, the rifle had earned a strong reputation as a fast-handling woods gun ideally suited for dense cover, short-range hunting, and quick follow-up shots on deer and similar game. The gas-piston operating system, compact 18-inch barrel, and traditional walnut stock combined to create a rifle that handled more like a lightweight carbine than a typical semi-auto. This example retains those classic features, along with both iron sights and a period Redfield 4x scope mounted in Weaver pivot bases, adding versatility for shooters who preferred glass on the .44 Magnum platform.
The .44 Magnum cartridge itself contributes significantly to the rifle’s enduring appeal. Originally developed for revolvers, it delivers impressive terminal performance from a longer rifle barrel, with substantially increased velocity and energy. This made the Ruger Carbine a practical and popular hunting tool throughout the 1960s and 1970s, especially among sportsmen who valued a compact, powerful rifle capable of cleanly taking medium game at modest distances. The bore condition on this rifle is particularly encouraging, rating 9/10 with sharp rifling and minimal wear, suggesting that it has seen use but was maintained with care.
Cosmetically, the rifle shows expected handling marks to the walnut stock and scattered corrosion on the metal surfaces, yet the overall finish remains strong at around 95 percent. The stock has no cracks or structural issues, and the mechanical function is sound. With its classic profile, period-correct accessories, and strong bore, this 1971 rifle stands as a solid example of Ruger’s early semi-automatic sporting design. As a C&R-eligible firearm, it also holds appeal for collectors who appreciate the historical significance of the Deerstalker as one of the pioneers of the modern semi-auto hunting rifle. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! MF
