The world of firearms is filled with legends. These are the guns that have become ingrained in the fabric of history, not just for their role in shaping the world but also for their enduring appeal and the joy they bring to shooters of all levels. Among the most celebrated and beloved of these is the .22 rifle, a firearm that has served as a gateway to shooting sports for generations. Within this realm of iconic rifles, the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle stands out as a true classic. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and simple design made it a favorite amongst hunters, plinkers, and target shooters alike, a legacy that continues to resonate today.
This article delves deep into the world of the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle, providing a comprehensive guide that explores its history, design, features, functionality, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a new shooter seeking your first firearm, or simply curious about a piece of shooting history, this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to appreciate the Stevens 87A fully.
The History of the Stevens 87A
The story of the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle is inextricably linked to the history of the J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Established in the mid-1800s, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality firearms at reasonable prices. This commitment to value made their products accessible to a broad segment of the population, helping to popularize shooting sports and recreational hunting.
The design and manufacture of the Stevens 87A and its sibling models, known as the 87 series, came later. These rifles were a response to a growing demand for affordable, reliable semi-automatic .22 rifles. The 87 series offered a unique blend of features that proved remarkably successful, and the Stevens 87A became a standout of this family.
The production runs of the Stevens 87A spanned several decades, a testament to its enduring popularity. During this period, slight variations were introduced, each with its own distinct characteristics, though all remained true to the core design principles that made the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle so beloved. The exact manufacturing years can vary, but this rifle cemented itself in the annals of firearms history as a reliable plinking and hunting firearm. Its straightforward design and ease of use made it an immediate success, finding its way into the hands of countless shooters.
What accounts for the widespread appeal of the Stevens 87A? Several factors contributed to its popularity. Firstly, its affordability made it accessible to a wide audience, including those new to the shooting sports. Secondly, its semi-automatic action provided rapid follow-up shots, allowing for quick target acquisition. Third, the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle was known for its reliability, making it a dependable companion in the field. Finally, its .22 Long Rifle cartridge offered a perfect balance of low recoil, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. This combination of features solidified the Stevens 87A’s position as a favorite, and a rifle people still look to today.
Design and Features of the Stevens 87A
The Stevens 87A .22 Rifle is an example of elegant simplicity, designed for ease of use and efficient performance.
The Stevens 87A uses a semi-automatic action, a system that harnesses the energy from the fired round to cycle the action and chamber the next cartridge. This mechanism is typically a blowback design. This is a simple, effective system that contributes to the Stevens 87A’s reliability and cost-effectiveness.
The rifle is chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge, a round known for its versatility and affordability. The .22 LR round is a popular choice for target shooting, small game hunting, and recreational plinking, making the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle suitable for a wide range of shooting activities.
The Stevens 87A typically features a blued steel barrel, known for its durability and resistance to wear. Iron sights, consisting of a front sight and a rear sight, are standard. These sights are usually adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune their aim. The receiver often included grooves to allow scope mounting for those desiring a more advanced sighting system.
The stock of the Stevens 87A is usually made of hardwood. This material offers a good balance of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The stock’s design is generally simple and functional, providing a comfortable and stable platform for shooting.
The Stevens 87A .22 Rifle uses a feeding mechanism based on a tube magazine or, on some models, a detachable magazine. The tube magazine design is the most common. This type of magazine is typically housed within the fore-end of the rifle. The detachable magazine models offer the advantage of quicker reloading, but tube-fed versions are often more aesthetically pleasing to some users.
Specifications and Technical Details
Understanding the specifications of the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle helps to appreciate its design and performance.
The overall length of the Stevens 87A is typically around forty inches, but this varies depending on the barrel length of the specific model. The weight of the rifle is relatively light, usually weighing between five and six pounds. These dimensions make the Stevens 87A easy to handle and carry, even for extended periods in the field.
The barrel length is around twenty-four inches long, though variations do exist. This length contributes to the rifle’s accuracy, by providing a good balance between velocity and maneuverability.
The magazine capacity is an important consideration. With the tube magazine system, the rifle can hold approximately fifteen rounds. With the detachable magazine variations, the capacity can vary from model to model.
The trigger pull on the Stevens 87A is relatively smooth, making it easy to control. The trigger pull weight can vary slightly, but it generally falls within a comfortable range for most shooters.
Other specifications worth noting include the number of grooves in the barrel rifling, which affects the accuracy of the bullet’s flight path, and the twist rate, which determines the stability of the bullet.
Functionality and Operation
Operating the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle is a straightforward process that’s accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
To load the rifle, the shooter needs to first ensure that the action is open and the safety is engaged. Then, with a tube-fed model, cartridges are fed into the loading port located on the fore-end and carefully inserted into the tube magazine until full.
In the detachable magazine models, the magazine is filled with rounds and then inserted into the magazine well.
The firing sequence begins by bringing the rifle to the shooting position, taking aim, and disengaging the safety. Pulling the trigger initiates the firing cycle, which ignites the primer and the firing of the bullet.
Safety features are essential for responsible firearm ownership. The Stevens 87A typically includes a safety mechanism to prevent accidental firing. The safety must be engaged before loading and unloading.
Handling and shooting the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle is easy. The low recoil and compact size of the rifle make it suitable for shooters of all ages and experience levels. The key to accurate shooting is to acquire a stable shooting position, properly align the sights, and squeeze the trigger smoothly.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Maintaining the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Cleaning and lubrication are critical steps in maintenance. After each shooting session, the barrel should be cleaned to remove powder residue and lead buildup. The action should be cleaned to remove any debris or dirt that could interfere with its smooth operation. Lubrication should be applied to moving parts to reduce friction and prevent wear.
Common problems can sometimes occur. Failure to feed, failure to eject, or failure to fire are potential issues. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of the action can help to prevent these problems.
Spare parts are available from a variety of sources. Online retailers, gun shops, and gunsmiths often stock replacement parts for the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle.
Proper storage is key to preserving the rifle’s condition. The rifle should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Oiling the metal surfaces before storage can help prevent rust and corrosion.
Value and Collectibility
The Stevens 87A .22 Rifle has a value that extends beyond its functional purpose, as collectors and firearm enthusiasts appreciate its historical significance and enduring design.
Several factors influence the value of the Stevens 87A .22 Rifle. The condition is one of the most important. Rifles in excellent condition, with minimal wear and tear, command higher prices. Rarity is also a significant factor. Variations, special editions, or models from certain production years may be more valuable. Market demand, which is influenced by current trends and the preferences of collectors, also affects value.
Current market prices for the Stevens 87A can vary. Prices are influenced by a combination of factors. A typical range can be found in a variety of online firearms marketplaces, auction websites, and gun shows.
The Stevens 87A .22 Rifle has attracted a loyal following amongst collectors due to its historical significance, its classic design, and its reliable function. Collectors appreciate the rifle’s role in the development of the .22 rifle and its contribution to shooting sports.
Resources exist for those seeking appraisals. Professional appraisers specializing in antique firearms can provide accurate assessments of the rifle’s value.
Conclusion
The Stevens 87A .22 Rifle stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted firearm. Its history, design, and reliability have earned it a place of honor among classic rifles. The Stevens 87A continues to bring joy to shooters of all levels. It’s a testament to the value of functional design and responsible gun ownership.
If you are a proud owner of a Stevens 87A .22 Rifle, share your experiences. Your insights can help other firearm enthusiasts. Your story can also help others discover what makes this rifle so special.
