Offered for sale is a classic Ward's Western Field Model 81 (SB508A) slide-action rifle chambered in .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle. Manufactured by Savage Arms for Montgomery Ward, this rifle is mechanically identical to the legendary Savage Model 29.
The absolute standout feature of this vintage rimfire is its brilliantly engineered takedown receiver. By simply backing out the large, knurled thumbscrew on the left side of the receiver, the rifle seamlessly splits into two halves (the upper barrel/action assembly and the lower fire-control/stock assembly). This not only makes the rifle incredibly easy to pack and transport, but it also allows for straight-line, breech-to-muzzle cleaning—protecting the barrel crown from cleaning rod damage and preserving the rifle's accuracy.
Internally, this rifle features thick, machined steel components—a true testament to mid-century American manufacturing. It has been thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and test-fired in-house. It cycles reliably, shoots exceptionally well, and is ready for the range or the squirrel woods.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Savage Arms (Branded Ward's Western Field)
Model: 81-SB508A (Savage Model 29 equivalent)
Caliber: .22 Short, Long, & Long Rifle (.22 S. L. & L.R.)
Action: Pump-Action (Slide-Action) / Takedown
Barrel Length: 24 inches, Round
Capacity: Tubular Magazine
Serial Number: 34423K
Features & Configuration:
Takedown Action: Quick-detach receiver design for easy transport and safe breech-to-muzzle bore maintenance.
Sights: Equipped with a standard front blade sight and a step-elevator adjustable notched rear sight.
Furniture: Classic American hardwood featuring a grooved "corncob" style pump forend and a plain pistol-grip buttstock fitted with a smooth steel buttplate.
Condition Report:
Mechanical: Excellent. The pump action cycles smoothly and reliably, and the rifle fires very well. The takedown screw threads perfectly and locks the solid machined-steel receiver halves tightly together with zero play.
Metal Finish: The metal has been extensively cleaned and reconditioned in-house. It retains a nice, honest vintage patina with standard fading and edge wear typical of a mid-century field gun. The internal fire control group is clean and free of rust.
Wood Furniture: The grooved forend is in excellent shape. The buttstock shows standard handling marks. Please Note: There were historical stress cracks present at the wrist/neck of the stock. These have been professionally repaired, glued, and stabilized from within by our gunsmith. While the cosmetic lines of the hairline cracks are still visible on the exterior, the stock is structurally sound and rock-solid for shooting. One chip remains missing from the top right of the neck. It's an aesthetic flaw, but the price reflects this defect.
Bore: Clean, bright, and ready to shoot.
Please review all provided high-resolution photographs—including the internal takedown breakdown—to independently verify the exact condition and hardware prior to purchase.
Shepard Arms Listing Integrity Notice:
This firearm has been described accurately and in good faith based on our in-house gunsmithing inspection, cleaning, and test-firing.
We are happy to answer technical questions regarding the firearm's specifications or condition; however, we do not engage in debates over subjective interpretations. This listing is intended for informed buyers who are comfortable making purchasing decisions based on the technical details and photographs provided.
