J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company, also known as J. Stevens & Co., was established in 1864 by Joshua Stevens in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts. This company played a significant role in the American firearms industry, particularly noted for its production of single-shot rifles and shotguns.
Founding and Early Years: Joshua Stevens, with the help of W.B. Fay and James Taylor, founded the company. Initially, they produced a tip-up action single-shot pistol, but their fame grew with the introduction of various firearms, including the Stevens Favorite rifle, which became iconic for many young shooters and small game hunters due to its affordability and effectiveness.
Product Line: Stevens was known for its single-shot firearms, but they also ventured into other arms. One of their notable products was the Stevens Model 520 and its successor, the Model 620, pump-action shotguns designed by John Browning. These models were significant for their use in World War II as trench guns, among other roles.
Acquisitions and Changes: The company went through several name changes and acquisitions. It was sold to New England Westinghouse in 1915, renamed J. Stevens Arms Company in 1916, and eventually purchased by Savage Arms in 1920. Despite these changes, Stevens continued to produce firearms under its name until Savage phased out the Stevens brand in 1991, only to be revived in 1999 for lower-cost rifles and shotguns.
Innovation and Design: Stevens was innovative for its time, producing firearms in various calibers and designs, including the .22 LR, which became very popular. They also developed proprietary cartridges like the .25 Stevens and .25-21 Stevens, though these didn't achieve the same level of popularity as the .22 LR.
Cultural Impact: The Stevens Favorite, in particular, has left a lasting legacy due to its widespread use as a starter rifle for many Americans, often being the first gun owned by many individuals. Its design and the stories around it contributed to the lore of American firearm culture, especially in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Recent Developments: Although not directly mentioned in your provided information, the mention of Stevens in connection with Savage Arms indicates that its legacy continues through firearms produced by Savage, which occasionally revisits the Stevens branding for certain products, keeping the name alive in the market.
The history of J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company is deeply interwoven with the development of American firearms, reflecting both technological innovation and changes in manufacturing and business practices over the decades.
