Stevens Model 87A .22 LR Semi-Auto Rifle, 24 in Barrel, Tubular Magazine, Blued, "Gill Gun" Vent-Slot Receiver
The Stevens Model 87A is a classic .22 LR rifle recognized for its vented receiver with vertical "gill" slots and its versatile operating system. This U.S.-made model features a 24-inch barrel, an under-barrel tubular magazine with about 15-round capacity in .22 LR, and a right-side cocking knob that can be pushed in to lock the bolt for single-shot use. Often associated with the Savage Model 6 family, it is commonly nicknamed the "Gill Gun" and "Click-Clack" for its distinctive design and cycling characteristics.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Widespread scratches and blemishes are present on the metal and wood. Areas of pitting are visible in the blued finish. The bore is clean and shiny, and the rifling shows visible blemishes.
What’s Included
- Stevens Model 87A .22 LR semi-automatic rifle
The Model 87A uses a blowback action with convertible operation: it cycles semi-automatically with .22 LR, while .22 Short and .22 Long require manual cycling. Pushing in the right-side cocking knob locks the bolt for a controlled single-shot mode when desired. This flexibility made the platform a practical rimfire choice across multiple load types.
Its receiver features multiple vertical vent "gill" slots and an elongated right-side ejection port, details that contribute to its well-known "Gill Gun" and "Click-Clack" nicknames. A takedown/guard screw on the fore-end belly and a tube hanger forward of the fore-end reflect the period design approach.
The rifle is built with a 24-inch carbon steel barrel and a blued carbon steel receiver. Sighting is handled by open iron sights: a dovetailed front blade and an open rear leaf with a stepped elevator. The under-barrel tubular magazine includes a brass-colored inner magazine tube with a knurled end cap.
The hardwood stock has an oil/varnish finish and classic lines, including a semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and a serrated steel buttplate. Overall length is approximately 44 inches, and weight is about 5.5 lb, delivering a steady, traditional rimfire handling profile.