J. Stevens A&T Co. Visible Loading Repeater No. 70 Gallery Model .22 Short Pump-Action Rifle — Gunsmith Special
This early J. Stevens “Visible Loading Repeater” No. 70 is the Gallery Model chambered exclusively for .22 Short. Built before the 1916 Savage takeover, it carries the Apr 30 1907 patent roll mark and a low “P 560” serial prefix. The rifle’s unique elevator lets shooters watch each cartridge rise into alignment, a feature that gave the model both its name and its “Miserable Loader” nickname.
Fewer than 100,000 of these rifles were produced between 1908 and 1934.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor.
Bore Condition: Poor – noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Fouling: Severe Fouling – extensive corrosion, pitting, or erosion.
Bore Rifling: Poor Rifling – rifling heavily worn or filled with fouling or debris.
Specific Condition Notes: This rifle is a gunsmith special. The magazine tube is cracked, the pump is unsecured, and the barrel is severely fouled. The firearm is presently non-operable.
What's Included
- J. Stevens A&T Co. Visible Loading Repeater No. 70 Gallery Model rifle (as described)
The patented “visible loading” action exposes the cartridge elevator through the receiver sidewall, a mechanical curiosity rarely seen on other gallery rifles of the era.
Chambered for .22 Short only, this model was intended for indoor shooting galleries and fairground concessions where low noise and minimal backstop wear were essential.
The rifle retains its original straight-grip walnut stock, 14-groove pump forend, and external hammer. Both the frame and 18-inch barrel are blued carbon steel.
Collectors value early, pre-Savage Stevens markings, and the low serial prefix on this example places it firmly in that desirable production window.