Hi Frank44,
I found this on another forum FWIW.
# 1946 - Stevens Visible Loading Sporting Rifle
4/17/99
Bruce, Los Angeles, CAMaker Model Caliber Barrel Length Finish Serial Number
J. Stevens Arms Company Visible Loading Repeater .22 24 Inch Octagonal Unknown D168 (OR MAYBE 0168)
Barrel is marked "J. Stevens Arms Company Chicopee Falls, Mass. USA" and below that line is "22 Cal short, long or long rifle" about midway along the barrel is the statement "regular cartridge only". There also appears to be a small "20" in a circle near the rear end of the barrel. On the side of the gun there his a 1/2 inch circle with the letter "sVg" I would like to know the approximate age of this gun. I am 46 and we have had it in the family as long as I can remember. We used it regularly for plinking until about 8 years ago when some internal part of the firing mechanism broke. I am thinking of having it repaired just for the sentimental value.
Answer:
Bruce, the Stevens Visible Loading Sporting Rifle, also known as the 'No. 70' was manufactured from 1907 to 1934. The Visible Loading rifle has an exposed hammer and breech block, half length tube magazine beneath a 22 inch barrel, pistol grip stock, and ribbed slide handle. Magazine capacity was 11-15 rounds, depending upon weather 22 Short, 22 Long or 22 Long Rifle rimfire cartridges were loaded which could be used interchangeably. Sights were conventional front bead and rear leaf spring type. The Visible Loading rifle was made in a number of patterns each with a different model number, but the differences between the models is not clearly understood, sights, finish and barrel configuration are the most probable model arbitrators. Later rifles were offered with a take-down feature, but this was really only a readily detachable butt stock. Visible Loading Rifle values are in the $50 to $150 range depending upon condition and features. Marc
