Stevens 15A / Springfield 120A - Catt57's gun of the day #38

Catt57

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Stevens 15A / Springfield 120A​


The Stevens Model 15-A and Springfield Model 120A are nearly identical single-shot .22 bolt-action rifles, both manufactured by Savage Arms as affordable, simple trainers or "boy's rifles" that fire .22 Short, Long, or Long Rifle cartridges. They were produced during the same approximate time period from the late 1930s to the early 1970s with the 120A typically being the "cheaper" store model.

Throughout the production there were small differences like buttplate, trigger, bolt knurling, sights, etc. but the action remained basically the same.

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Stevens 15A

For the first years of production from 1937 to 1947, it was sold as the Springfield Model 15. In 1948, it was rebranded as the Stevens Model 15A.
The Stevens Model 15-A is a single-shot, bolt-action .22 LR rifle produced by Savage Arms between 1948 and 1965, typically featuring a 24-inch barrel, wood stock, and open sights. Designed for the "boy's rifle" market, these lightweight (approx. 3.75 lbs) rifles are known for their simple, sturdy design.

Interesting sidenote: The legendary sniper Carlos Hathcock got his start on a Stevens 15A.
https://www.nrafamily.org/content/throwback-thursday-carlos-hathcock-s-stevens-model-15a-rifle/

This 15A dates to 1955
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Springfield 120A

The Savage/Springfield Model 120A is the same as the Stevens 15A.
These were made from the late 1940s-1971 for stores like Sears, Wards, and others. It was also manufactured as a store brand gun for numerous hardware chains.

This 120A dates to 1961 and is wearing a period correct Weaver B4 scope with a custom leather scope cover.
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Weaver B4 scope

Specifications:
Produced: 1954-1960
Power: 4x
Field of View: 30ft
Tube Diameter: .75”
Eye Distance: 2”
Front End Diameter: .75”
Length: 11.5”
Weight: 6 oz.
Construction: Blued Steel

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Amazing! There’s something timeless about these old trainer rifles. They are lightweight, simple and somehow still incredibly satisfying to shoot.
 

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