Ruger Model 44 .44 Rem Magnum Semi-Automatic Carbine – 18.5" Barrel, 4+1, 1964 C&R Eligible
This early-production Ruger Model 44 carbine stands out as one of the first center-fire long guns Ruger ever offered. Built in 1964 and now Curio & Relic eligible, it combines a short-stroke gas system with a 4-round tubular magazine to deliver hard-hitting .44 Magnum performance in a compact, woods-ready package. A blued carbon-steel barrel and receiver, matched with an oil-finished American walnut stock, give the rifle classic lines and durable field capability.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This carbine displays the normal handling wear expected of a well-kept firearm that has been in service for more than sixty years, yet it remains mechanically sound.
What’s Included
- Ruger Model 44 semi-automatic rifle
Introduced in 1961 as the "Deerstalker," the Model 44 laid the groundwork for Ruger’s later rimfire 10/22. This example bears an early, non-prefix serial number in the 7,000 range and the transitional “RUGER CARBINE .44 MAGNUM CAL.” roll mark, underscoring its early place in the production run.
The 18.5-inch carbon-steel barrel offers quick handling in dense cover while maintaining the full ballistic potential of the .44 Remington Magnum cartridge. A gold-bead ramped front sight pairs with a folding leaf rear sight for fast target acquisition without adding weight.
The short-stroke gas-operated action provides reliable cycling with factory loads and limits fouling in the receiver. A cross-bolt safety adds straightforward, intuitive control.
The oil-finished American walnut stock features a Monte Carlo comb for comfortable cheek weld and comes factory-fitted with sling swivel studs. Combined with the rifle’s modest 4+1 capacity, the overall package delivers balance, durability, and classic styling that appeals to hunters and collectors alike.