jstevens 25 cal. rf rifle

Question
I have a 25 cal. rf lever action single shot. iwould like to know the age and value.  
the stock has a small chip out of it otherwise solid. the but is solid. the hammer
is loose unless pulled back to shoot. I don't know if that is normal or if it has a
weak spring. it is a model 44 serial # 65760. please give me all the information
you can.     thanks.

Answer
Tim,

I am assuming that the rifle you are referring to is one of the J. Stevens "Ideal Single-Shot Rifles". There is a No. 44 of this series which is chambered for various calibers and is offered with a 24" or 26" barrel. It has open rear sight and blue finished and case colored with a walnut stock.

The rifle has a falling block action that is activated a trigger guard-action lever. It was produced in calibers from .22rimfire up to .30-.40

There were approximately 100,000 manufactured between 1896 and 1933. If in "good" condition would have an approximate retail value of  $600 to $700.

I hope this helps and thanks for the question Tim.

Sid Lark