hi, I have a Stevens Ideal range rifle in 25-20, schuetzen butt, double set triggers and a 26 inch half octagon barrel. Is this a model 44 action or a 44 1/2 action? and how to tell if it is pre 1898?
Thanks
Mikew

Mw,
More than likely it is a 44 1/2 if it has DST, very few of the 44's were built with DST unless it was a higher grade rifle, but they are out there, I had a 47 with DST. The 44 1/2 will have a breech block that drops below the receiver when the action is opened, the 44 breech block rocks within the receiver and cannot be seen from below when open. The 44 1/2 was manufactured starting in late 1903, the 44's prior to 1898, but no records exist as to what the cutoff SN is so assume it will not qualify as antique.

Photos would be nice to see.

Mike

Since the Range Rifles were built on both frames, and with DST, it could be either. As mentioned DST are much more common on the .44.5, but I've got several 44 models with DST.

John, that is as useful a comparison picture as anyone is likely to ever need.  It shows the easily noted differences in the tops of the breech blocks and the pin upon which the 44 block pivots.  In fact, about the only thing that could add to this picture would be a second one comparing both actions open (which would show that odd "fish tail" look on the bottom of the 44 1/2 block.)  Thanks for a really good contribution to the general knowledge here!

Froggie