*SOLD* J.Stevens No. 70 Visible Loader .22 S/L/LR 24" *OCTOGONAL BARREL EXAMPLE*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

The J. Stevens Model No. 70 Visible Loading rifle is a classic example of early 20th-century American firearm engineering. Chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges, this pump-action rifle was designed to be a reliable and affordable option for small game hunting and target shooting. It features a 24-inch octagonal barrel with a blued finish, providing durability and a traditional aesthetic. The rifle’s sighting system consists of a brass bead front sight and a Marble tang peep rear sight, offering precision aiming for shooters of various skill levels. The straight grip stock, paired with a ribbed forearm, ensures a firm yet comfortable hold, a characteristic feature of the era’s pump-action .22 rifles. The left side of the frame bears the distinctive "SVG" cartouche, a marking that connects this firearm to the period following the Savage Arms acquisition of J. Stevens in 1920.
 
The Model No. 70 Visible Loader was first introduced in 1908 and remained in production, with various modifications, until 1934. The name "Visible Loading Repeater" was eventually shortened to "Visible Loader" after the Savage Arms takeover, likely around 1925. Based on the markings present on this rifle, particularly the continued use of the full "Visible Loading Repeater" designation, it is estimated to have been manufactured between 1920 and 1925. One of the unique characteristics of this model is its action, which allows shooters to see the cartridge being chambered—hence the "Visible Loading" moniker. Though the rifle had a reputation for being somewhat mechanically delicate compared to other pump-action .22 rifles of its time, it remains a sought-after collector’s piece due to its historical significance and distinctive design.\
 
Specifications:
  • Manufacturer: J. Stevens 
  • Model: No. 70 Visible Loader
  • Serial: J193
  • Caliber: .22 Short / Long / Long Rifle
  • Finish: Blue
  • Barrel Length: 24" Octogan Barrel  
  • Optics/Sights: Brass Bead Front with Marble Tang Peep Rear Sight
  • Stock/Grips: Straight Grip Stock with Ribbed Forearm
  • Action: Pump-Action
  • Markings: Standard / The left side of the frame is stamped with “SVG”
Mar 16th 2025 Bryant Ridge

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