As a lifelong hunter and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve spent decades appreciating the craftsmanship and reliability of American-made firearms. The Savage 99, a classic lever action rifle, consistently stands out. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a hunter seeking a dependable firearm, or simply curious about this iconic piece of American gun history, understanding the nuances of Savage 99 model identification is crucial. This guide will walk you through the history, variations, and value considerations of the Savage 99 lever action, covering everything from the early 1899 models to the later Savage 99 308 variations and beyond. We’ll also touch on the popular .22 high power savage models and the often-sought-after Savage 30-30 pump.
A Brief History of the Savage Arms Company & the Model 99
The story of the Savage 99 begins with Arthur William Savage, a prolific inventor and firearms designer. In 1894, Savage established the Savage Arms Company, initially focusing on repeating rifles. The Model 1899, the precursor to the 99, was introduced shortly after, and quickly gained a reputation for its innovative rotary magazine and smooth action. Savage Arms History details this evolution. The Model 99, formally introduced in 1920, refined the design and became a mainstay for hunters and sportsmen for nearly a century. It’s a testament to the original design that the Savage 99 is still in production today, albeit with modern updates.
Understanding the Core Savage 99 Variations
The Savage 99 lever action rifle has seen numerous variations over its lifespan. Identifying these variations is key to determining value and understanding the rifle’s specific features. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common models:
Early Models (1899-1950s)
- Model 1899: The original, chambered primarily in .303 Savage and .32-40 Bottleneck. These are highly collectible.
- Model 1920: A refined version of the 1899, with improvements to the action and receiver.
- Model 99A: Introduced in the 1930s, often featuring a stepped receiver and improved sights.
- Model 99B: Similar to the 99A, but with a different barrel profile.
- Model 99C: A sporting version with a checkered stock and forend.
- Model 99E: A popular model, often chambered in .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester. The Savage 99E 308 is particularly common.
- Model 99F: A heavier-barreled version designed for long-range shooting.
Later Models (1960s – Present)
- Model 99DL: A deluxe model with upgraded wood and features.
- Model 99R: A more recent model with a modern stock and receiver.
- Model 99H: Heavy barrel model, often used for varmint hunting.
- Model 99Takedown: A convenient option for transport and storage, the Savage 99 takedown models are gaining popularity.
Caliber Considerations: From .30-30 to .308 and Beyond
The Savage 99 has been offered in a wide array of calibers. The caliber significantly impacts the rifle’s value and intended use. Here are some of the most popular:
- .30-30 Winchester: A classic deer hunting cartridge, the Savage 30-30 pump and lever action models are highly sought after. A savage 30-30 pump value can vary greatly depending on condition and year.
- .308 Winchester: A versatile cartridge suitable for a variety of game, the Savage 99 308 and savage model 99 308 are common and reliable. The savage lever action 308 offers a unique shooting experience.
- .243 Winchester: A popular varmint and deer cartridge, the Savage 99 243 is known for its accuracy.
- .300 Savage: An older cartridge, but still effective for deer and other medium-sized game. A 300 savage model 99 worth depends heavily on condition and rarity.
- .22 High Power: Excellent for small game and target shooting, the savage 22 hi power models are often used for training.
- 7.62x39mm: A relatively recent offering, providing a different ballistic profile.
Identifying Your Savage 99: Key Features to Examine
Pinpointing the exact model of your Savage 99 lever action requires careful examination. Here’s what to look for:
- Receiver Markings: The receiver will be stamped with the model number (e.g., 99A, 99E).
- Barrel Markings: The barrel will indicate the caliber and often the manufacturer.
- Stock and Forend: Check for features like checkering, engraving, and wood type.
- Sights: Note the type of sights (e.g., peep sights, receiver sights, scope mounts). A savage 99 peep sight is a common feature on older models.
- Rotary Magazine: The Savage model 99 rotary magazine is a defining characteristic. Check its capacity and condition.
- Serial Number: The serial number, typically located on the receiver, can help determine the year of manufacture. Gunboards provides resources for decoding Savage serial numbers.
Assessing the Value of Your Savage 99
Determining the value of a Savage 99 is complex and depends on several factors:
- Model: Rarer models (e.g., early 1899s, certain variations) command higher prices.
- Caliber: Some calibers are more desirable than others.
- Condition: Excellent condition rifles with original parts are worth significantly more.
- Originality: Rifles with all original parts are more valuable than those with aftermarket modifications.
- Rarity: Limited-edition or special-run models can be highly collectible.
- Location: Market values can vary regionally.
As a general guideline, a savage model 99 value can range from a few hundred dollars for a well-used, common model to several thousand dollars for a rare, collectible example. A savage model 99 300 value will differ from a savage model 99 308. Resources like GunBroker.com and online auction sites can provide recent sales data to help you gauge the current market value. Consulting with a qualified firearms appraiser is also recommended for valuable or rare rifles.
Savage 99 Scope Mounting & Accuracy
Many Savage 99 owners choose to add a scope to enhance accuracy. However, the unique receiver design can make savage 99 scope mount installation challenging. Specialized scope mounts designed specifically for the Savage 99 are available from companies like Weaver and Leupold. Regarding savage 99 accuracy, these rifles are generally capable of good accuracy, especially with proper ammunition and a well-mounted scope. However, the inherent limitations of a lever-action design mean they may not achieve the same level of precision as a bolt-action rifle.
Resources for Further Research
- Savage Arms Official Website
- National Park Service (for hunting regulations)
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (responsible hunting practices)
- REI Expert Advice (general outdoor information)
The Savage 99 is more than just a rifle; it’s a piece of American history. By understanding its variations, history, and value, you can appreciate this iconic firearm for generations to come. Whether you're hunting in the backcountry or simply admiring its craftsmanship, the Savage 99 lever action continues to be a favorite among shooting enthusiasts.