RUGER Model 44 Sporter Carbine .44 Magnum Semi-Automatic Rifle, MFD 1971
SOLD FOR: $1215
LSB#: 211202EM18
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Carbine
Serial Number: 100-25984
Year of Manufacture: 1971 (Ruger Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum
Action Type: Tubular Magazine-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, “100-25984”, “RUGER CARBINE / .44 MAGNUM CAL.”, the company’s phoenix logo, and “®”. The grip cap and buttplate are marked with the company’s phoenix logo.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into a banded base that is integral to the barrel. The front sight is a flip-up u-notch leaf on a base dovetailed into the barrel.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth wood with finger-grooved forend, capped pistol grip, Monte-Carlo straight comb, and serrated synthetic buttplate. There ares ling swivels on the belly and the forend. The forward areas of the wood have. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has light scuff wear at the heel and toe along with minor thinning on all edges. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Partially Refinished. The barrel appears to be original, but the receiver has indications of being refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The barrel has scattered light handling marks, intermittent minor scuffs, and several minor nicks that dot the barrel. The receiver has taken on a distinct plum hue and there are scattered minor nicks on the top. Dishing is apparent at the screws on top of the receiver, and most edges, including those of the ejection port are rounded. The screws have minor toolmarks with strong slots. Markings on the barrel are clear, but those on the receiver are shallow in appearance due to refinishing. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good-to-Fine condition, as partially refinished.
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 leather sling.
Our Assessment: 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 1984, 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 notable for being the even less common sporter stock version, which has a forend with long finger grooves, a distinct flared pistol grip, and a slightly more luxurious Monte-Carlo comb. This gun will make a perfect hunting companion even today, 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. Good luck and happy bidding!