Stevens 38-35

[Battis]

I was looking at a Stevens 38-35 (patent date 1864). I can't find much info online about this rifle - value, how to form brass, etc. Anyone here have any experience with this rifle?

[rbertalotto]

Yes, I have a Stevens 44 1/2 in 38-55. Great rifle and a fantastic cartridge. Very easy to load for. Brass is available from Starline.

BUT.....Is it a 44 1/2 action or is it a 44.....The 44 is the weaker action and they did chamber it in 38-55, but only for a short time as it proved too much cartridge for that action. The 44 1/2 is a MUCH stronger action.

A good 44 1/2 in 38-55 with a good bore should bring $1000 to $2000 depending on condition and features. A 44 can be bought for well under $800 most any day.

Good Luck!

[Lead pot]

There is a lot of difference between a .38-35 and a .38-55. The .38-35 is a small enough round for the weaker .44 Stevens.

[Bent Ramrod]

I think Battis is looking at a Stevens Tip Up rifle. Value depends on how much nickel and bluing is left, bore and wood condition, presence of sights and what kind, etc. Tip Ups in fair (brown patina) condition typically go for $450 and up at the Gun Shows around here, but I see no Black Friday type crowds around the tables fighting over them. The two I have I got for $250 each, and I think I was the only interested potential buyer either of the sellers had seen.

The rifle looks kind of weird, but is actually very ergonomic to use. Put your arms in the aiming position and you are looking right down the barrel; no stock crawling or head wiggling necessary. They hang there like a Kentucky rifle, very steady. Mine are in .32 Rim Fire and .25-20 Single Shot.

The .38-35 was not a popular caliber and only was offered for a few years. The original .38-35 used a 215 gr .375 bullet in a thick walled Everlasting case. If you're going to shoot one of these rifles, it would be best to have one of the custom outfits lathe-turn some cases for you. The head size is a little small to form from .30-30 size cases and everything else common is much too small or much too big.

[Battis]

Yep, it's a Stevens tip-up 38-35.
It's in good shape but they're asking over $500. Interesting gun.