Anyone good at gun research?

[rcnut143]

I've got an old .22 that my grandpa gave me. He said he got it from his cousin when he was 10 (1940). Its a Springfield Model 16 made by J. Stevens Arms company. I've done a quick google search but didn't really find much. I'd like to know the years these were made and possibly what its worth.
For being more than 70 years old it looks brand new. No rust at all, wooden stock has no scratches, and the rifling in the barrel is perfect. Gonna take it out next week and see how she shoots.

 

[frickenjoey]

I might be wrong but the Model 16 was made from about 1936 all the way up into 1970 or '71. If I am correct it is a single shot bolt action. It should be chambered in Short, Long an Long Rifle. I think it had a 21" barrel? Here is the part that sucks. They are worth next to nothing money wise....$100-150 at best. Which I find rather strange since there are VERY few around. It is worth way more to you as a sentimental piece than as a sale piece. I have a gun, Winchester 121Y. It was my first gun only worth $200 on it's best day but no way in hell would I sell it for anything short of a stupid price. Why? It is worth that much to me.

 

[rcnut143]

Yep single shot bolt action. .22 Short and long. Its gotta be one of the earlier ones made if he got it in 1940. I didn't think it would be worth much but thanks for the info. Its amazing how stupid simple everything works on this. I wasn't planning on selling anyways, just keep it around to add to the collection. I've got another one from him too but too much rust to read anything, fine steel wool and oil do the trick?

 

[alpinehyperlite]

Try hoppes solvent and a rag first. always able to remove surface rust from all older guns with that stuff.