*SOLD* Savage/Stevens Model 87D .22 S/L/LR Blue 20" *ALSO KNOWN AS THE "GILL GUN"*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

The Stevens Model 87D, produced by Savage Arms Corporation, is a notable example of mid-20th-century American rimfire rifle design. Introduced as part of the broader Model 87 series, the 87D stood out for its innovative "gill gun" semi-automatic action, named for the distinctive slotted ejection port on the right side of the receiver, which resembled the gills of a fish. This action allowed the rifle to operate in both semi-automatic and manual modes—semi-auto for .22 LR cartridges and manual cycling for .22 Short and .22 Long—providing versatility and reliability across multiple rimfire calibers. Designed with affordability, durability, and mass appeal in mind, the 87D featured a tubular magazine and a traditional walnut stock, appealing to both casual plinkers and small game hunters. Its simple blowback operation and dependable feeding mechanism helped establish its popularity during a time when rimfire rifles were a staple in American households.
 
What further sets the Stevens Model 87D apart is its place within the historical context of post-WWII American firearm manufacturing. Savage Arms, through the Stevens brand, produced millions of rimfire rifles aimed at meeting the recreational and utility needs of returning GIs and a growing middle class. The 87D was manufactured with cost-effective materials and a streamlined production process while still offering the accuracy and function expected by American shooters. Its robust construction, ease of maintenance, and broad adaptability made it a favorite among generations of shooters, earning a reputation as a "working man's" rifle. Today, the Model 87D is appreciated not only for its nostalgic value but also for its mechanical uniqueness and contribution to the era's accessible and reliable firearms landscape.

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Savage Arms Corporation
Model: Stevens Model 87D
Serial: No Serial Number
Caliber: .22 Short/Long/Long Rifle (only LR as automatic)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 20"  
Optics/Sights: Dovetail Blade Front with Elevator Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth One-Piece Hardwood Stock
Action: Semi-Automatic Rifle
Markings: Standard

Jun 13th 2025 Bryant Ridge

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