J Stevens 54

tws3b2

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 26, 2019
Messages
204
Location
Asheboro NC
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
I picked up a J Stevens model 54 bolt action 410 shotgun without a bolt assembly at the gun show a few weeks ago. Made between 1933 and 1942. I know that even if the gun was in perfect shape it would not be worth over a couple hundred $ and that's fine. I'v made it a project, something to do (sometimes old people need something to do). Problem is i can't find a model 54 bolt assembly. I went to gunparts.com and found they do have bolt assembly parts for the 54 but no bolt body. Out of stock. According to them the model 37, 37b, 54, and 54b all have some interchangeable parts. The schematics for all four models are exactly the same. And according to them the bolt body is the same for all 4 models. Their part # 119700d. I found a 37b bolt assembly on ebay. I know a 37b will not work in the 54 as is because of extractors. I asked gunparts if i replaced all the 37b parts ( except the body) with 54 parts would it then work. They said no, the 37b extractors will not and can't be made to work in the 54. Duh, so i asked. Since according to their parts list the 37, 37b, 54b And 54 all use the Same body. Why could i not remove all the parts from the 37b bolt body ( including bolt head and extractors ) and replace them with 54 parts. They never responded, silence, no answer. I did purchase all the 54 parts. And, They all will mount to the body from the 37b perfect. One problem. I replaced the 37b cocking piece with a model "early" 54 cocking piece even though they both looked alike. Gunparts #991750a. But when i insert the bolt assembly into the breech, the cocking piece contacts the breech before it can lock. Maybe likes 3/16. I see there is another cocking piece " old style" for the 54. More like a pull knob. But looking at photos it looks like it would have the same problem. Both the early and old style cocking piece are listed as fitting the 54. From what i see there was only about 23000 54s made. They are not " collectable " collectors say. So they are not worth much,collectors say. But I'm on a quest. Gotta get it done. So, There is something i cant get my finger on. What am i missing. Any Ideas?
 
Back
Top Bottom