J. Steven 25.20 Lever Action

[billyclyde]

I hope this is an OK place to post something like this.

I was given an old (1894) J Stevens A & T Company 25 caliber rifle.  I've been looking for some information online with no luck.

Does anyone know anything about this firearm?

Is there a good resources out there would be able to provide me with more resources? and if its worth any money?

Your help is appreciated, thanks.

[Walt-Sherrill]

The Fjestad Blue Book has a couple of .25 caliber Stevens rifles.  The TIP-UP RIFLE, which matches the years of manufacture, is the most valueable -- but came in 15 different styles.

The very best, in pristine condition, might be worth $400.  If its in rough conidition, irs probably worth $100, or so.  Only really CHOICE guns are generally sought by collectors.

You need to take some pictures and post them here, if you can.  

You might check with Cherry's in Greensboro, NC -- they specialize in collectible weapons -- with examples, etc. on their website.

(WWW.CHERRYS.COM)

[billyclyde]

Took the rifle into a very competint gunsmith.  It took him a little researching before he came up with some info but we found out that it does not take the same round as the current day 25.20.  They call it a 25.20 single shot which they no longer manufacture.  He gave me some contact info for rare ammo manufacturers and it looks as though I can have the round produced for about 3 or 4 dollars per round.  (ie, not an everyday plinker, thats for sure).

He also thought that they gun was in "very good" condition putting it around $800 once I clean/oil it up a bit.

I will try to post some pictures here if you're interested.

[Walt-Sherrill]

Clean and oil, and NOT A DARNED THING MORE.  

If its is truly as rare as your gunsmith thinks, anything you do to change it will decrease its value.  Shooting it would be a BAD idea, although having a box of ammo would be attractive to a collector.  (But at that price....I think I'd just give the potential buyer the contact's phone number.)