Offered here is a highly desirable J. Stevens Ideal No. 51 Schutzen target rifle chambered in .22 caliber and built on the renowned Model 44 falling-block action. Introduced in 1903, the Stevens 44 action represented an important advancement in American single-shot target rifle design and remains highly regarded among collectors of early precision rifles. This attractive example features a 26-inch round barrel, a 13-inch length of pull, and a distinctive finger-spur operating lever. The rifle is fitted with a vintage R.A. Litschert Spot-Shot target scope mounted in externally adjustable Unertl rings, complete with a recoil spring assembly. The handsome straight-grip hardwood buttstock features attractive grain, a smooth finish, and a traditional rifle-style buttplate, complemented by a slender hardwood forearm with particularly attractive grain figuring. The metal surfaces retain excellent bluing with only light handling wear and subtle plum-toned patina developing in areas, lending the rifle an appealing vintage character. The bore remains bright, and the rifle presents exceptionally well for its age, displaying evidence of careful handling and preservation. Combining the respected Stevens 44 action, classic American single-shot target rifle styling, and desirable vintage Litschert optics, this is an appealing collector's rifle from the golden age of American precision target shooting.

Vic Samuel (19442026) was a Nebraska-based custom gunsmith and proprietor of SSA Enterprises, known as the Martini Specialist of the Midwest. Specializing in custom single-shot rifles, Samuel was particularly associated with Martini actions but also worked with other traditional designs, including Stevens falling-block rifles. His craftsmanship encompassed precision barrel making, action tuning, trigger improvements, custom operating levers, metal finishing, and individually shaped stocks in finely figured hardwoods. His work ranged from traditional sporting and varmint rifles to elaborate target and Schuetzen-style configurations, combining classic single-shot designs with modern precision machining and traditional gunmaking techniques. His workmanship received national recognition in 2006 when firearms writer Michael Bane published a detailed review of a custom .357 Magnum Martini rifle commissioned from Samuel. Operating from Papillion, Nebraska, Samuel developed a distinctive body of custom work that remains of interest to collectors of fine American single-shot rifles.

Barrel Length: 26 inches

Bore Condition: Bright bore.

Finish Condition: Excellent bluing with light handling wear and slight plum-toned patina.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description and condition assessment prior to bidding.

  THIS ITEM IS AS PICTURED WITH NO FURTHER ATTACHMENTS. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE REFER TO THE AUCTION DESCRIPTION, LOT #1 DESCRIPTION AND TERMS OF SALE BEFORE BIDDING.     UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, NO SALES TO COLORADO WILL BE ALLOWED     GOOD LUCK BIDDING, WE HOPE YOU FIND THE ITEM YOU ARE LOOKING FOR!
Make: Stevens
Model: Idea No. 51 mod 44-1/2
Year: 1903
Serial # - Firearms: 10914
Caliber: 22 cal
Barrel Length: 26

• Make: Stevens
• Model: Idea No. 51 mod 44-1/2
• Year: 1903
• Serial # - Firearms: 10914
• Caliber: 22 cal
• Barrel Length: 26