Is  there a difference in the muzzle diameter between the 418 and the 418 1/2? The 1933 Stevens catalog lists a "26" heavy tapered round barrel tested for accuracy" for the 418 and a"26" tapered round barrel tested for accuracy" for the 418 1/2. Both models were supposed to come with 7/8ths" sling swivels. I have three of these rifles, a 22 short,a 22 WRF and a 25 rimfire. All of the barrels are about the same diameter and the 22 short has 1 1/4" swivels. I don't know if I have model 418's or 418 1/2's or both. I guess my real question is-what's the difference between a round tapered barrel and a heavy round tapered barrel. My barrels measure between .658 and .661. Any help would be appreciated.

The .22 wrf and .25 Stevens rf are both 418 1/2 models,as those calibers weren't offered in the 418. Your rifle in .22 short is a 418,as the .22 short wasn't offered in the 418 1/2. Besides calibers, the main difference between the two models is what sights they came with. The 418 came with  the Lyman 144,and the 418 1/2 came with the Lyman 2A. I believe that they had the same weight barrels. Somewhat scarce guns being a more expensive model made for young shooters during the depression.

I got the last one I bought at a great price for the same reason. What confused me was the catalog description of "round tapered barrel" and "heavy round tapered Barrel," when they're both within a few thousandths of an inch of each other. I guess it would be impossible to tell what model you had if you came across a scoped 22 lr with the iron sights removed.Just one more reason to love these great old rifles.