Ruger Model 44 Carbine DeerStalker .44 Mag 18 1/2″ Semi-Auto Rifle 1972 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,025.00
LSB#: LSB250608WJ029
Make: Ruger
Model: Model 44 (DeerStalker) Ruger Carbine
Serial Number: 100-29211
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Caliber: 44 Remington Magnum
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas-operated, Rotating Bolt
Markings: The eft side of the receiver is marked, “100-29211 / RUGER CARBINE .44 MAGNUM CAL.”. The top of the barrel is marked, “ STURM, RUGER, & CO., INC. / SOUTHPORT, CONN., U.S.A.”.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, dovetailed to an integral barrel ring. The rear sight is an elevation adjustable folding U-notch leaf with a white diamond aiming reference, dovetailed to the barrel. The receiver is mounted with a two-piece Weaver-style scope base for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth walnut, with a semi-pistol grip, straight comb, metal crescent buttplate, banded forend, and sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows light to moderate wear, with scratches and dings scattered throughout the stock. There is one small chip just in front of the rear sling stud. There is one small 3/4″ crack at the top left of the wrist. The finish on the stock is in good condition. Overall, the stock rates in Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 4-round tubular internal magazine
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with scattered scratches on the receiver, and thinning finish at the muzzle crown and on the front leading edge of the receiver, as well as the edges of the trigger guard. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are tooled, but retain serviceable slots. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Good to 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Model 44, also known as the “DeerStalker,” was introduced in 1961 as one of the first semi-automatic rifles chambered in a revolver cartridge. Designed as a companion piece to Ruger’s .44 Magnum revolvers, it quickly earned a reputation as a handy, powerful woods rifle, particularly favored by deer hunters in the dense forests of the Northeast and Midwest. With its compact size, reliable gas-operated action, and four-round tubular magazine, the Model 44 bridged the gap between the classic lever-action carbines of the past and the modern semi-automatics that would follow.
This example, manufactured in 1972, showcases the model’s signature configuration with its 18 1/2-inch barrel, walnut stock, and blued steel finish. The rifle has seen honest use, with scattered scratches and dings across the stock, a small chip near the rear sling stud, and a short crack at the wrist. Even so, the stock remains structurally sound, fitting tightly to the action. The blued finish retains about 90%, with thinning on the muzzle crown, trigger guard edges, and receiver high points, while the markings remain sharp. The bore is excellent—bright with crisp rifling, rating a strong 10/10. Mechanically, it functions correctly with its rotating bolt and cross-bolt safety.
Still regarded as one of the most practical and enjoyable hunting rifles Ruger ever made, the Model 44 combines nostalgia, shootability, and plenty of real-world utility. For hunters seeking a classic brush gun, or for collectors of early Ruger long arms, this DeerStalker represents an iconic piece of American sporting history. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
