So you have a Savage 99, maybe two or three… but what models are they? Where to go to even start figuring that out? Well.. here’s where you can start – A walk through of all the Savage 1895, 1899 and 99 models that were made as shown in catalog pictures!
Many of the models had variations with changes to them, but this should narrow down the possibilities, and maybe you’ll spot the next model you want! Enjoy!!
If you found this interesting, please subscribe to my Youtube channel to be alerted to new videos. And consider whether you’d find my Savage 99 Pocket Reference Guide a useful addition to your library or work desk. Books can be purchased in my online store.
I put the serial number in the checker. It said the gun was manufactured in 1949. That is not possible. The gun was given to my father in 1944, and was an old gun then. I would love to get the history on my .300 Savage, but I am sure it is all lost by now. It has a swing-mount Pachmayr scope and mount, with a pop-up iron sight.
Hi David! Quick check for 1949 vs 1944 would be to look at the serial number and barrel address. A 99 made from 1946 or earlier will have a serial number under 500,000 and a barrel address saying Utica, NY. A 99 made from 1947 to 1959 would have a serial number of 500,000 or higher and the barrel address will say Chicopee Falls, MA.
Fantastic article. I just inherited a 99 T/D in .30-30 with serial number 339467, giving in 1932 manufacture date. Tapered, checkered forend with Schnabel tip. Steel buttplate, brass indicator. Question: The receiver is stamped with a G. Barrel is stamped with F and last 3 digits of serial number. Forend is stamped with G followed by serial #. Is there any significance to the different letter codes? Thanks
I’d say it’s very late 1931, maybe 1932. Depression years were slow for sales.
If your rifle is checkered and not engraved, it will be a model 99G. Only checkered model in 1931/1932, except the engraved 99K.
The barrel stamp is probably just an inspection stamp, though it could have been made originally for a takedown model 99F. I believe the 99F and 99G barrels were identical in 1931/1932. The important part is the last 3 digits of serial number are there, indicating it’s original.
G on the forearm isn’t all that common, but shows up once in a while. The G on the front of the receiver is normal, a letter or number indicating the model was stamped on the front of the receiver under the forearm from the mid-1920’s to the late 1940’s at least.
Thanks for your blog, nice to read. Do not stop.
A friend of mine was visiting her home island of Prince of Wales in Southeastern Alaska. A good friend of the family showed them a severely rusted rifle found off the trail on one of the local islands. They texted the pictures of the rifle which I immediately recognized as a Savage. It had an octagon barrel. Your site gave me a good idea as to the model, age and caliber of the rifle. The wood as gone. The action was fully open. One wonders if the hunter met an untimely death in brown bear country. I have 4 images of the rifle if you want them.
I have 99E SS#1078460 the safety is on the lever can you please give me a idea of age it was passed down to me from my dad thank you so much
Hi Michael. It should date to 1964. A 99E from that year should have a birch stock with no side panels or checkering, and no cartridge counter window, a lever safety and a 20″ barrel. They were the “utility” model at the time, but the short barrel and lever safety make them popular with hunters.
I own a 1954 Savage 99 in 300 Savage.
The model number looks like it is 99SP.
Is that correct? What is the SP?
The “SP” is a proof mark, and not a model name. If it was made in 1954 then it will be a model 99EG if it has a thin forearm with a schnabel, or a 99R V2 if it has a fatter forearm with rounded end.
Hello and thank you for the site you’ve put together. I just purchased a 1899 Savage and serial number is 25.040.
Apologize for my lack of knowledge.
Can only .30 rounds be used? Is there any other details you might possess?
Thank you for the time
Hi Charles! Your rifle should date to 1901, probably late spring. It should be chambered in either 303 Savage or in 30-30, those were the only two offerings at that time. It should be stamped as one or the other on the barrel right in front of the receiver ring, or if there is no stamp there than the barrel address will say CAL. 303 for 303 Savage, and CAL. 30 for 30-30.
I am trying to determine the model of my Savage 99. Ser# 332707. Cal 250-3000 barrel 22” straight stock with checkering. Butt plate steel. Safety on lever. Round barrel. Oval shell counter.
Hi Charles!
At that serial number range (1930), there were no standard models that had a straight stock with checkering. In fact the only straight stocked standard model that had checkering was the Model 99F Version 1 the last couple years it was made – but this is a decade later than your rifle. The 99G was a takedown made in 1930 that had a pistol grip and checkering; the 99K was also made and was a takedown with pistol grip and checkering and was engraved.
Checkering could be special ordered for straight stocked models, but is extremely rare. More commonly we find Savage 99’s that were checkered aftermarket.
I’d be happy to help you figure it out, but I’d need a couple pictures of the rifle. If you’d like, email them to me at Calhoun@savagelevers.com.
I’ll be selling a Savage 99, which I believe is EG, S/N 835222, barrel marking Chicopee Falls, Mass., 300 Savage caliber, 24″ barrel, as-new unfired condition still with retail store tag. I want to advertise the year of manufacture or range of years. Lever boss is marked 3E. What would you say of the year of manufacture?
The 3E would mean it’s a 1953 manufacture date. The letter portion started out as “A” in 1949, then “B” in 1950, etc.
Hi I have a 303 savage passed down to me serial#12.653 any idea when it was made and model ? Thanks
Ray, by serial number your rifle would date to the fall of 1899. Guns weren’t finished in order, so it might be a few months later than that. Models at that time included the 1899A (round barrel) / 1899B (octagon barrel) / 1899C (half-octagon barrel), all with 26″ barrels and crescent buttplates. Also there was a 22″ round barreled 1899A SR with a smooth shotgun style buttplate, and a 20″ round barreled 1899F saddle ring carbine.
Love those early ones!
Thanks for the information . It does have an octagon barrel but it measured 24 1/2 “ with the crescent buttplate . Thanks again
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. This is an amazing site. I was curious if you knew the date ranges the 99R version 1 was manufactured? And do you happen to know how many of the 99R version 1 were made?
The 99R version 1 came out in 1932 and was catalogued up to 1947. In reality, it’s extremely uncommon to find any made after 1942. There were several variations including stock and checkering changes over that time. Nobody has any idea how many were made, they aren’t that common considering much of it’s lifetime was either Depression years or WW2 years.
Hello, I have a savage model 99. That says “savage model 1899” on the barrel and “sav 303” the serial # 111656 it also has a very short barrel 18’. Do you know what year and variant it might be
Thanks
Bill H.
William,
From my data I would say your rifle was made in the fall of 1910 if it finished on time. Some guns were always delayed, so possibly 2-6 months later. It would be a model 1899, but no 1899’s came standard with an 18″ barrel. Several possibilities if the barrel is round:
1) 1899F Saddle ring carbine – would have carbine buttplate and holes on the receiver for a saddle ring stud.
2) 1899H Featherweight – would have hard rubber buttplate, thin barrel.
3) 1899A – would have crescent buttplate
4) 1899A SR – would have a smooth, shotgun style buttplate.
Thanks, for the fast reply.
I measured the barrel again it’s more like 19”. 20” would put the barrel about an inch or a little more into the bolt. The rifle has a crescent butt plate, and serial numbers matching in all the right places.
Thanks for all your help
Bill
A crescent buttplate would indicate an 1899A, which came standard with a 26″ barrel. While shorter barrels could be special ordered, most rifles that short have been cut down aftermarket. Should still shoot fine tho, and a lot handier in the blind or the woods!
Good luck!
Hi, I was just wondering if you know how many 99 PE’s were made?
Thanks,
Charley
Somewhere deep in my research notes I do have counts for how many PE’s and DE’s were found in the ledgers. I’m just not sure where those notes are at the moment. I’m thinking the manual count found close to 500 of each. If I ever get my more comprehensive book completed, it will be in there.
hi.i have a new to me model 99 that was made in 1904,my question is i cant read anything on it that says the caliber.The only thing on the barrel reads REP on the right side.Only other thing that i can see is the serial no.Would love to know what it shoots if you can help me.Cheers Dave
REP on the barrel? That’s odd. REPLACED maybe? An original barrel would have a Utica, NY barrel address and the cartridge should be stamped up by the barrel. Original cartridges from the factory in 1904 would be 303 SAV, 30-30, 25-35, 32-40 and 38-55. Some really early barrels would say CAL 303 or CAL 30 in the barrel address, but pretty sure that was stopped around 1902.
If the cartridge is nowhere on the barrel, then the barrel likely was replaced. To determine the cartridge you’ll need to get a gunsmith to cast the chamber (or do it yourself). Should be real expensive to get done. You can watch a video on youtube about it by searching for “How to Pour a Chamber Cast Presented by Larry Potterfield”. Good luck!
Hi ,thank you for your quick response,you are right as the front sight is not a savage one. This one has a barrel banned ramp one almost like a Ruger one.Iwill take it to my gunsmith for a look.Tke care
I have a Savage Model 99 250-3000 Bishop custom stock 20 inch bull barrel serial 239825 I think it was built in 1922. Excellent shape . I have never run across one like it. PS. It shoots great 87 grain bullets. One in fourteen twist.
Your rifle probably dates to 1922. It would have started life as a straight stock 99E (solid frame) or 99f (takedown), or 99G (takedown, pistol grip stock). The 99G is the most likely, it sold better than the other two models. A bull barrel would be a replacement, is there any manufacturer’s name on it? Probably dates to pre-1960 if it’s 1-14″ twist.
My error it is a 22 inch barrel . Savage arms co.
Utica N. Y. Hi pressure steel proof tested is on the barrel. 1 in 14 twist. but a heavy barrel.
Well, that’s interesting. In 1923 there were several 99 models catalogued in 250-3000, but they all had featherweight barrels with a front integral sight. None were a rifle weight barrel.. but with a Utica stamp that’s a Savage barrel made 1946 or earlier. The default 99 model that had a 22″ rifle weight barrel in 1923 that was a solid frame was the 99C (99D was the takedown version). Catalogued in 303 Savage, 30-30, and 300 Savage. Savage could definitely have done a special order 99C in 250-3000, we’ve just never seen one. Or they could have made a special order 99E/99F/99G in 250-3000 with a rifle weight barrel easily enough as well. Unfortunately since it’s been restocked, to find out what it originally started as you would need to get a factory letter through the Cody Museum. Sounds like a neat gun though!
Thank You. It is nothing like any I have ever run across. But a beautiful old rifle . That still performs great.
I have a Savage 300 1899 takedown serial number 262-868 it says it was manufactured in 1924 it has a 24 inch barrel. Is that the correct barrel length?
I want to apologize for my ignorance it is a Savage 1899 model 300 not GE my mistake I’m trying to find out about the barrel it is a takedown
It does not have GE on it my mistake my barrel screws in like a regular screw I’ve seen others that have quarter turn and the barrel comes out it works perfectly just very curious
Hi Harley!
Serial number 262,868 probably dates to late spring of 1924 shortly after that. A 24″ barrel would be correct for a takedown 99 in 300 Savage at that time. If it has a pistol grip and checkering, it would be a model 99G.
And while it will have a stamp saying “SAVAGE MODEL 1899”, it’s really a model 99 – they just kept using the same stamp on the early 99’s because the parts were the same as the late 1899’s. They stopped using that stamp when they made some changed in 1927.
The switch from Model 1899 to Model 99 happened in fall of 1921, as best we can determine – right when the 300 Savage cartridge was introduced.
And the Model 1899 takedowns from 1907 to summer 1919 had barrels that could be removed with a quarter turn. But in Aug, 1919 Savage changed it so that the barrels had to be unscrewed all the way.
Thanks Rory!
I think that answered my question as well.
My ser.# 258429 shows it to be a model 99 in .300 Savage takedown (G?) with checkering and a 24″ bbl. made in 1924. Mine only has a single blade rear sight (with an adjustable insert) but has the 1903 Marble tang sight.
Yep, 1924 takedown with checkering and pistol grip is a 99G. 24″ is the right length for the barrel for a 300 Savage. Sights were often swapped around, like we swap around scopes nowadays. The Marbles tang sights are very good. If the rifle finished on time, probably accepted from the factory around Feb. 1924.
Hi, I wanted to thank you for the response to my last question and I have two more for you. Do you have an estimated population on how many of the 99K,s were made and when do you think your more comprehensive book will be published?
Thanks,
Charley
Most of the date range for the 99K was during the Great Depression, and with it being an expensive firearm there just weren’t many folks that could afford it. Production was over 12 years and a 106,000 serial number range – some of which the ledger pages don’t exist any more. So no clue as to how many exist, except it’s not many. A couple hundred? Anything is just a guess.
And, yes.. I should have been working harder on my bigger book last year. I had trouble figuring out the format that I wanted. But I’m slowly moving on it now, I’d love to get it done this year.
Thanks!
Hi, I have a Savage 99 that I’m trying to figure out the exact model on. It has serial # 297395, I believe made in 1927. It has 22″ barrel, checkered pistol grip stock, steel buttplate, it’s a take down and chambered in .303, I’m thinking maybe 99G but not sure.
Thanks,
Jeff
Hi Jeff! I show your rifle to have likely been finished in early 1927, though guns weren’t finished in serial number order so maybe a bit later. The 99G is the only 99 model with the features you list that isn’t also engraved, and 22″ is the correct barrel length for a 303 Savage. So you properly identified it. The 99G was made from 1921 to 1941.
Rory
Thank you so much, awesome site! Any idea what a ball park value would be on this 99G in about 90% condition?
The used gun market varies a lot. Best way to get an idea for going values is to watch gunbroker for a similar 99G and see what it sells for.
My 99 was made between 47 and 59 it has a chicopee falls address on barrel But on receiver it only has model 99 and no letters it has 24 inch barrel.
Doyle, that will limit it to either a model 99R or a model 99EG. The 99EG has a thin forearm with a schnabel tip, the 99R has a fat and wide forearm with a rounded end.
I just picked up a 300 savage 1899f. Serial # 1C05253. Has the counter window and a gold trigger. My research says it was manufactured in 1910. I would like to know more info on it.
I think you might have misread a number, or that it’s lightly stamped. Rather than 1C05253, I’ll bet it’s 1005253 – which would be a 1960 99F. Which matches the gold trigger, which isn’t on any guns prior to 1960. For a brief overview.. your rifle would be a Savage 99F Version 2 (first version was made from 1921 to 1940), 4th variation. The Version 2 first came out in 1955, and was made up to 1974. It was a featherweight rifle, and is very popular for hunting due to it’s lighter weight.
Hello, I’m hoping you can help me identify the model of a 99 in 300 savage. The serial number dates it to 1937/1938. It has a pistol grip stock with checkering. The front hand guard has no checkering, it’s the fat and wide style with a rounded end. Would this be a 99R? Thank you for your help.
There’s a problem with this configuration. There were no factory 99 models in the late 30’s that have a wide forearm with rounded end and is uncheckered. Well.. I suppose the 99H has a rounded end with no checkering, but it would also have a barrel band in 1937/1938. The 99R Version 1, and the 99T had forearms with rounded ends, but both had very nice checkering. So your forearm might be a replacement? Or refinished and somebody sanded off the checkering?
If you can remove the forearm, look on the front of the receiver for any letters. Usually in the 1930’s you’ll find a stamp there indicating the model. T for 99T, 8 for 99R, H for 99H, EG for 99EG, etc.
The numbers (377,xxx) stamped into the hand guard and the butt stock match the serial number on the receiver. The letter “T” is stamped on the front of the receiver. I guess that makes it a 99T. Thank you for your information!
I have a savage 99 .300 savage 968654 is the serial # it has 3E stamped into the frame above the trigger 24″ barrell shell counter no checkering on stock or forearm lever safety tang could you give me a rough year and if it’s a EG or what
Is there a letter prefix on the serial number? Any Savage 99 under serial number 1,000,000 should have a lever safety – except a few that had aftermarket tang safeties added, and possibly a prototype or two of the later tang safety rifles. Your serial number would be 1959 or 1960, and the lever date stamp should end in K or L, not E.
I have a model 99 made in 1922, wonder why the WW one dates are stamped on barrel ?
Charles, that’s a new one to me. I’ve seen quite a few 1919+ Savage 99’s and never have I seen one with dates stamped on it for WWI. Guessing maybe a veteran, likely an officer?
I just recently purchased a savage model 99 in 250-3000 serial number is 7608xx which dates it to around 1955 it’s factory drilled and taped the butt stock looks to be a model R but the fore stock has the model T pattern not sure what I have here any insight would be great thanks
John, at that serial number range (early 1955), there were only 3 models made. The 99EG, the 99R, and the 99F. They all have similar buttstocks, though the 99EG and 99F buttplates should be 4 7/8″ high versus the 99R’s being 5 1/16″ high. The 99R and 99T forearms are similar, but the 99R has a gentler slope in front of the receiver compared to the 99T’s sharp cutout. The 99R also would be a triangular checkering pattern on the forearm rather than the 99T’s fancier checkering that wraps around (with a gap on the bottom of the forearm).
I just got a Savage 99EG in 250-3000 the gun is in about 96 to 98% condition it has one light scratch on the stock teh SN is 5516XX I thank it was made around 1950
I agree, the serial number looks like it should be 1950. If you look on the front of the lever above the serial number, there should be an oval stamp with 1 or 2 numbers followed by a letter. The letter is a date code, and B would be 1950. Often this stamp is impossible to read. Nice grab, by the way – Everybody loves a 250-3000!
It looks like a 5B or 58 or 158 thank you for the information William
What model would my Savage 99 be? It has a 24-inch barrel and serial number # 437722, in 300 Savage.
Almost all the 99’s made from 1945 to 1954 were model 99EG’s, with some Version 2 99R’s mixed in from 1949 to 1954. So I would expect it to be a 99EG, thin forearm with schnable tip and triangular checkering. My primary hunting rifle is a 99EG made 6 to 7 months earlier than yours! It’s in my “All The Savage 99 Models” video at the 3 second mark.
I just purchased a “C” model ’99.
Serial #437833 in .308. What characteristics should identify this as correct stock, etc.?
Ken, is your 99 a removable magazine 99C? If so, there should be a letter in front of the 437833? The later 99C went through a lot of variations and stock changes, I can probably tell you which type with a full serial number.
Found this little lady last week Here in Australia
22 High Power take down # 286090
According to Your useful site she is from 1926.
shes been used hard and needs some tlc
If it was finished on time, probably done in the summer of 1926. Seems like quite a few 22HP’s were shipped to Australia, must have been the perfect gun for your game down there. If it’s a straight stock with no checkering, it will be a model 99F (version 1). If it has a pistol grip and checkering, it’d be a 99G. You’ll enjoy it!
I have bought a saddle ring 99 303 serial # 17.568
Not in my hands yet.The seller said there was no cocking indicator.
Also the rear sight is a fixed blade in a dovetail.
Your thoughts please
The cocking indicator should be a tab on top of the bolt that will stick up slightly when it’s cocked, and lies flat when it’s not. This was the design from serial number 10.000 to 89.999. The front sight should be a blade in a dovetail, the rear sight should be a semi-buckhorn sight.
That’s a pretty early saddle ring carbine, not many carbines show up the first couple of years.
It never rains then it pours,today a 250-3000 popped up,1924,in pretty good shape but has been drilled and tapped.With Weaver mounts.
So for less than $1000 nz I have two new 99s
John
99’s like to have company, so always best to buy a couple extra. 🙂
Hi, I have an 1899 serial #: 90.398 in 38-55 In really good condition. Round barrel, plain stock (no checkering) schnabel fore-end. Just wondering what I have as research seems to show the 38-55 as fairly desire-able? Any help is much appreciated. Thanks
Well, you have a Savage 1899 that probably dates to the summer of 1908. Depending on barrel length, it could be one of several different models.
26″ barrel and crescent buttplate – a Model 1899A
22″ barrel and smooth shotgun – a Model 1899A SR (short rifle)
20″ barrel and carbine buttplate and saddle ring – a Model 1899F (saddle ring carbine)
Yes, they are very, very popular. Especially with a lot of original condition.
Need help please. My uncle passed a few weeks ago. He had a huge gun collection. My cousin and I spent 3 weekends 10 hours a day cleaning his guns for him and didn’t even make a dent. Well what im getting at is our aunt wants my cousin and myself to come pick a rifle out. He told her that’s what he wanted. I cleaned 4 model 99’s and would like to pick the right one. I liked them all lol I remember a 308, 30-30, 303 and I believe a 250-3000 or a 300 I just don’t remember the last caliper. Can you tell me which is most collectable to the least please ?
Bryan, I’m very sorry to hear about your uncle and prayers for your aunt and your family. It’s never easy.
As to collectable.. there’s no simple answer to that. What models they are matter a lot, as well as how much condition. A really nice common caliber rifle can be more collectible than a rare caliber with a lot of wear. In general, the 308 and 300 Savage will be the most common. Then the 303 Savage, followed by the 30-30. The 250-3000 is usually the most desirable of the 5.
But that’s just generalizations..
A half-octagon barreled 1899 in 303 Savage is more desirable than a 99EG in 250-3000, a 99T in 30-30 or 303 Savage are very hard to find and more desirable than even a 99G in 250-3000.
Sorry I couldn’t be definitive, but collecting is almost never a science. Good luck!
Thank you for your condolences and your reply that was actually very helpful. I’ll be honest with over 250 guns. How do you even pick one omg. I seen at least 7 I’d really love to have when we were cleaning. My cousin and myself are going to be cataloging and trying to put close as we can get to accurate values. Fortunately there is some good web sights for that and we’re pretty knowledgeable. I’ve just never got into the savage unfortunately not on purpose I’m more into building and competing with the Garand and M14. But I have a feeling since Winchester and savage is what he collected I’m about to lol also have a feeling I’m also going to be emptying out my coffee can money lol. Thanks again for your help, sorry to make a discussion board
Actually if you could point me towards a book for all savage rifles I’d really appreciate it. Email me please sir
There isn’t one book that covers all Savage rifles. They made a huge number of rifles from 1894 to today – Kimmel’s “Savage & Stevens Arms” maybe gives the best overview of the wide variety of guns that were made, but it doesn’t show all the models or variations and a lot of the data isn’t completely accurate. Mostly info from old catalogs and ads, plus some descriptions.
For Savage 99’s there are two good books:
1) my Savage 99 Pocket Reference has info on all the models and standard variations and the most current date ranges, but being it’s a pocket reference it doesn’t have really great pictures or cover much besides the 99 rifles.
2) David Royal’s “A Collector’s Guide To The Savage 99 Rifle” has absolutely great pictures and more info on company history, Arthur Savage history, some 99 memorabilia, etc.. but not all the model variations are described.
There’s a couple other books out there, but the data is so old that they are mostly useful to collectors now.
Hi I have a 300 savage serial #648136, With 4 holes for scope mount on left side of receiver are they from factory.Also what model would this fall under Thanks
Your rifle will date to 1952, and they didn’t do any side mounted scope bases at the factory at that time as far as we know. We see quite a few aftermarket ones added, though. Can’t think off the top of my head which one might need 4 holes, most got by with 2 or 3. Possibly one of the Williams side mounts? Or a Griffin & Howe, or Noske?
They only made two models that year, and one outsold the other by a large degree. The 99EG is the most common model seen from the early 50’s, it has a thin forearm with a schnabel tip. The 99R is the other, wide forearm with a rounded end. The 99R was also factory drilled for scope bases on top of the receiver.
Hi I have a 300 savage I just acquired the serial # 365840 it is drilled for a scope on top of receiver could you please tell how old and model. Thanks
Well, I can tell you that your 99 probably dates to 1937 and that the holes for a scope on top of the receiver would be after market (unless the scope base screws into the rear 2 holes on the tang). But I can’t tell you the model based on this, there were quite a few made at the time. You might want to watch my youtube video “All the Savage 99 Models” for models from the 99A Version 1 thru 99T. Or if you can provide more information.
Barrel length? Straight stock or pistol grip? Forearm held on with screw or a latch? Checkered stock or uncheckered? Forearm with schnabel tip or rounded end?
Hi , The barrel length is 24″ there is no checkering ,the forearm is skinny with a schnabel end and held on with 1 screw,no pistol grip,steel butt plate.I hope this helps Thanks
If the buttplate is a crescent shape with pointed tips, then it sounds like you have a Model 99A Version 1.
It would look similar to this.
The buttplate is not crescent shape with no pointed tips also it does not have the raised wood on stock near trigger. Thanks
There were no models in 1937 which didn’t have the raised side panels on the buttstock and had a schnabel tipped forearm. There was one variation of 99H in 1936 without the side panels, but it didn’t have a schnabel tipped forearm.
At this point since the stock may not be original, try removing the forearm and looking on the front of the receiver for a letter or number stamp. From later 1920’s through the 1940’s they usually stamped a character there for the model.
Like this, on an 99EG:
You were right there are side panels on the butt stock and it does have a skinny forearm with a schnable tip. I did remove forearm on the front of receiver there is the letter G stamped. Sorry about the confusion . Thanks
Where the date code is stamped, it looks like 26 to me which doesn’t go with the chart for the years. Serial is 118xxxx in 308 Winchester.
The date stamp on the lever is a flat stamp on a curved surface.. sometimes the letter doesn’t stamp fully, once in a while not at all. 1,18x,xxx would be one of the last 99’s with all number serial numbers, so that’d be 1968. Probably later 1968.
I have a 300 Savage model 99E made in 1983. Stamped on the barrel after 99E it says A SERIES. What does that signify?
The “SERIES A” stamp on 99’s starts showing up around 1970, and shows up on almost all 99 models by the end of the decade. It doesn’t mean anything except that there was a change made, but that change could just be cosmetic. Savage put “SERIES x” stamps on many of their models from this time period. Even John Callahan who was the Savage historian for a years and worked at Savage during that time never knew exactly what the changes were that prompted the “SERIES A” stamp.
Hello, thank you for the very informative video and thread going on here. I am trying to identify an early 1899 that my friend inherited from his grandfather. Serial 93405. According to savagelevers.com it was manufactured in 1908. Barrel length is 22″. Bore diameter 7.7mm. This seems to correlate to a .303 Savage or 30-30. It is the barrel length and manuf date that are throwing me a little. Here are some pictures:
https://1drv.ms/i/s!Akg1uj_Vw5D7g6l71McOx8JIKnzq2Q?e=iTCzA1
https://1drv.ms/i/s!Akg1uj_Vw5D7g6l6sp1pwUNZ0g40lQ?e=Xi9rwG
https://1drv.ms/i/s!Akg1uj_Vw5D7g6l82u6_A8JOnnzooA?e=OMk9r7
Are you able to figure out what caliber this rifle is based on the details provided here? Also, what do you think it may be worth? Thank you again for your help!
I can’t figure out what caliber it is, that should be stamped on the barrel. Even if it’s a very early rifle than maybe in the barrel address as “CAL 303” or “CAL 30”. If there’s no marking, you’ll need to either do a chamber cast yourself or have a gunsmith do one for you. That gun has been worked on, and I can’t tell what it was originally – 303 Savage, 30-30, 25-35, 32-40 or 38-55 – or rebored/rechambered to something different.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgRp3r9VPE0
thank you. The only stamping to be found anywhere on the gun is the serial unfortunately. However that video makes casting it look much easier than I had imagined it to be. Thank you again, I will give it a try!
I have checked my serial# 262440 and it states that it is a Model 99 manufactured in 1924. The barrel is stamped Model 1899, it is a 303 with a 20″ barrel, cartridge counter, straight grip walnut.
What model do I have?
The initial change of Savage 1899 to Savage 99 around 1921 was only a marketing name change, they didn’t change the rifles. Mostly they just added more cartridges to each style of rifle they already made. Since they didn’t change the actual rifles, they didn’t change the “SAVAGE MODEL 1899″ they’d started using on the receiver in late 1920. They continued stamping 99’s with the Savage Model 1899 stamp up to 1927, even while cataloguing them as Model 99’s.
A 20” barrel in 1924 could be either a 99E Version 1 / 99F Version 1 (same exact the 99F is a takedown), or a 99H.
A carbine buttplate and no schnable forearm means a 99H.
A ribbed buttplate and forearm attached with a screw is a 99E, ribbed buttplate and forearm attached with a latch would be a 99F.
I have a 300 model 99 serial # 648547 with shell counter .What year an how much would it be worth?
I have a serial number to date lookup on this site, but your rifle should be a 1952 manufacture date. Only 2 models made that year, the 99EG and the 99R. Values depend on condition, best way to see recent prices is to watch gunbroker for a similar condition rifle to sell.
Just purchased a model 99 serial no.606661 put the year at 1951. It has a 8 series Utica barrel in 300 savage. The forearm looks like the rt style. Could this possibly be a RT. It is being shipped with the original paperwork. I have several 1899’s bought this on gb at a shooter price.
We were watching this one sell. It doesn’t appear to be an RT, because RT’s have very sharp slants on the forearm in front of the receiver like a 99T does. This one has very gentle widening of the forearm – even gentler than a 1950’s 99R Version 2. But if it was a 99R Version 2, then it should be factory drilled for scope bases.
I also see the paperwork says it’s for a 99F and 99T.. That’s a bit of a mystery, because the 99T hadn’t been catalogued since 1940 (tho a few made in 1945).
It might be a special order or replacement rifle where somebody wanted a 99T and they made one as close as they could.. it might be an oddball 99R Version 2 that slipped out of the factory.. It might be a refinished/sanded forearm on a 99R Version 2.. it might be a swapped forearm put onto a 99EG.. I can’t be sure. It’s not a catalogued model as is. Look for stamps/serial numbers/assembly marks on underside of buttplate/buttstock, and inside/end of forearm. If all the parts match numbers, then it’s factory at least.
Thank you. I will let you know what I find
How do I know which model 99 30-30 I have? The serial number checker said it was a model 99 made in 1937 but I don’t know if it’s an a-h.
Watch the video and look at the stock configuration and checkering. Most models differed only on stock configuration and whether it was a solid frame (forearm attached with a screw) or a takedown (forearm attached with a latch). In 1937 your choices would be a 99A, 99F Version 1, 99G, 99H, 99K, 99R Version 1, 99RS Version 1, 99EG or 99T.
I have a savage .308 model 99f with the serial number 1024508 and was wondering what year it was made and possible value? It’s in good condition.
Your 99F should date to 1961, which means it was made in Westfield, MA and has a tang safety. Quite possibly, though, it still might have a Chicopee Falls, MA barrel? Pre-stamped barrels from Chicopee Falls in 1959 continued to be installed on Westfield made receivers for the first couple of years. I don’t really guess at values, it depends a lot on condition and even then prices vary a lot.
I have a savage 99 made in 1925 the serial number is 277124 does that sound correct?
Yes, that’s probably right. By my data it’d be mid-1925. But guns weren’t finished in serial number order, so no guarantees without a factory letter. But the large majority in that range would be 1925.
My model 99 came today. Will not be able to remove the butt plate or forearm today. I did receive the papers. The original savage envelope that hung on the trigger guard with the string it has a Chicopee falls address. First side says style. Caliber is .300. Inside is the ten commandments of safety. the packed buy paper. A pink Savage model 99 solid frame instruction leaflet. A components parts for model 99 savage. The savage model 99 F and T paper It has solid frame featherweight circled along with 300 savage with 22 inch barrel.
Forearm and stock serial numbers match receiver no. Barrel has a 5 stamped on bottom. Date boss 24C in the oval. Receiver is not marked. Shell counter is case colored. Butt plate marked 9. SK Along with the stock. Forearm is 10.5″ long and 1.80″ at widest point
Well, that’s cool that the serial numbers match! Truthfully, it’s nothing that’s catalogued. IF the included paperwork is original to the gun, it seems they were trying to create a rifle as close to a 99T as possible for somebody. Almost surely a special order. I’d call it a special order 1950’s 99T.
The forearm and checkering is wrong for a 99T, but probably as close as they could do in 1951 for a reasonable price. Pretty cool they found a 22″ Utica barrel to put on it, that was sitting around for a number of years (Utica production stopped in 1946). The paperwork for 99F/99T would be 1940 or earlier, which is when the 99F and 99T stopped production.
Original owners estate assured me the paperwork is Original.
There’s a saying in the gun collecting business – buy the gun, not the story. But in this case I’d tend to believe them. Very cool, probably special order rifle!
i have located a savage 99 with s/n 373281 which i believe is 1938 model. They put a recoil pad on it so id have to find the steel butt plate. everything else looked ok but i dont know if everything is right for that s/n. Can you tell me what stock should look like and forend ? The owner is asking 1,000. what is a good estimate for 80% ?
That would be really early 1938, probably. Though guns weren’t finished in serial number order, so could have been finished later. If the stock has been cut for a recoil pad, an original plate won’t fit. if the end of the buttstock is straight where the pad is on – it’s been cut.
The stock appearance will depend on the model. A lot of the difference between the models was the stock. If you can take the forearm off, you should find letters or number on the front of the receiver that show the model. G for 99G, E G for 99EG, T for 99T, 8 for 99R or 99RS (we don’t understand that choice either), F for 99F, etc.
Then watch my video for 99’s to see the catalog pictures of the model. If it’s a model having Version 1 / Version 2 styles, yours would be a Version 1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv2kGz7uac0&t=4s
Hello Calhoun,
I’ve been in the market for a while looking for a nice model 99. I’m only interested in the older ones. In particular ones with the brass rotary. I’ve heard in some models there are steel rotary counters, is that true?
Thanks
It is true. The vast majority of pre-1960 99’s had brass rotors. But not all..
1) A very few, very early 1899’s had rotors made of a softer, silvery metal. Non-magnetic, we call them pot metal rotors.
2) Some early 1950’s 99’s had steel rotors, due to brass shortages from Korean War. Most are case colored, some are in the white.
This wasn’t for any specific model, at the times they did them they could show up in any model. Every WW2 99 I’ve seen had brass rotors, oddly.
After 1960 you get into different rotors.
I purchased a 1927 model 99 30-30 cal. serial# 298045 I was wondering if someone could give me some additional information on it.
Well, I can tell you that it probably dates to late spring or early summer of 1917. But it could be any of the following 1920’s models:
99A, 99B, 99C, 99D, 99E, 99F, 99G, 99H
Good morning Calhoun! I have 2 99’s. The first is a 99F (Feather weight??) as that is stamped in the top left side of the receiver just behind where the barrel starts. Lever boss code is very clear “11L”making that 1960 is that correct? Serial # 1009911 chambered in .358 win 24” slender barrel, brass rotary, tang safety, slender forend with pistol grip and checkering. It has the original Weaver K2.5-60B scope that I am told the rifle came from the factory with. I bought it from a friend who got it handed down from his Dad. Unfortunately not very well kept. It had a couple dime sized spots of crusty rust on the outside of the barrel but more importantly upon inspection with a bore scope, a severely pitted bore. I am told the .358 caliber is fairly rare. Your thoughts? I’m getting long winded here so I’ll send a separate post on the other 99 I have. Thanks Calhoun!
1960 for the 99F in 358 would be correct, though the barrel should be 22″ rather than 24″, and the forearm shouldn’t be “slender”. Wondering if maybe you have a 99EG with a 24″ barrel and schnabel tipped forearm? A 99F V2 forearm has a rounded end rather than schnabel.
The scope didn’t come from the Savage factory, but was probably bought at the same time. 99F’s in 358 are very uncommon and very collectible. Even with the pitting, I’d see how it shoots. If it still shoots accurately, you’re good to go! If it doesn’t.. that’s going to be hard to do anything about.
My mistake, it is a 22″ barrel measured from the bolt face to the muzzle with a cleaning rod. The forend is definately not schnabel but much more slender than my other 99 with a rounded end. It also has what appear to be factory sling swivel studs.
That does sound like a 99F, and the forearm is thinner than on a 1950’s 99R or on the earlier 99T.
Hello again Calhoun, now for the second 99 I have. I’m not sure what model this one is. It has a lever boss code of 19I but is not very clear at all. The 19 is legible but I’m not sure about the letter. Serial # 722203 chambered in .300 Savage, 24″ heavier barrel than the 99F, pistol grip with checkering, heavier/fatter forend, lever safety, brass rotary, Chicopee Falls Ma. This one must have been a safe queen. It is in superb condition and with the bore scope the bore is near perfect condition. I was told this may be a model H for heavy barrel?
This one is a 1950’s 99R, or more properly known as the 99R Version 2. There was an earlier 99R version made in the 1930’s/1940’s, and this version was introduced in 1950 and made until 1959. So only made at Chicopee Falls. Has a reputation for being a heavier gun due to the stock, but also a reputation for being very accurate. Always was drilled for scope bases, and they came with sling eyes installed at the factory. Yours should date to late 1953, and the date code on the lever would be an E. They often aren’t struck very well though, and can’t be read.
Calhoun I can’t thank you enough. Your knowledge on the incredible 99’s is extraordinary and the service you provide to the 99 community is very much appreciated. I double checked and find that the rotary mag on this 99 is not brass but a darker steel perhaps. Thank you again! Jeff
The “darker steel” is case colored steel, like the lever is. They switched from brass to steel for a couple years during the Korean War, probably due to brass shortages. Most were case colored steel, some are silver. I like the case colored steel rotor 99’s.
I have a Savage Model 1899 in .303, S/N 262240, which dates it to 1924. It has a brass magazine spool with counter. It has a straight grip walnut stock with narrow splinter forend, no schnabel. Carbine buttplate, no points. Barrel is 20 inches, lightweight, round. Front sight looks like a Marble’s gold bead on a shorty ramp. Ramp is dovetailed into the barrel. Rear barrel sight is removed, blanked off. Rifle has a neat Williams screw click adjustable receiver sight fastened to the holes where a rear scope base would go. The front of the receiver is not drilled for a front base. The tang is drilled and tapped, and cap screws are present.
Not a takedown.
Receiver is marked “Savage 1899 Model.” Barrel is marked “Savage Hi-Pressure Steel” with “303” beneath. Safety is on the lever, of course.
The rifle is in excellent condition with a few light handling marks. I acquired new brass and reloaded some ammunition with 150-grain 30-30 bullets and 4064. The rifle shoots very well, 2 1/2 inch groups at 100 yards.
Richard, great description and information. All the details indicate it would be a Savage 99H carbine, first variation (Style 1). Yes, it’s a Model 99 even tho it’s stamped Model 1899 on the receiver. These have become very popular, although the 99H was really the “utility model” of the 99 at the time, being one of the lowest priced. The 99H was made from 1924 through 1940, and yours likely dates to spring of 1924 (though any specific rifle might have been finished late).
The 303 Savage barrels are bored to .308″ just like the 30-30, so you are correct that any bullet suitable for the 30-30 is good for the 303 Savage. Nice rifle!
Calhoun-
Thanks very much. I had the little rifle out to the range today. It was a joy to shoot, especially after shooting my 45-70 thumper.
Now back to the reloading room to refill the cases!
Calhoun,
I wanted to thank you for your detailed information on the 99’s. Keeping history alive is so very important. I have a 99 serial 337478 in 30-30. Best I can tell it was made in 1931? As the story goes my dad was born in 1918 in Flagstaff Maine a few houses from the Morgan house where Jp Morgan was born. After JP made his money he would come back to Maine where my grandfather would guide him. JP gifted my grandfather 2 model 99’s in which I have one. It does have a brass counter which lever safety. Stamped behind the stock is the letter G. Does it seem correct for the year?
Again thank you for all you do!
I would put the manufacture date for your rifle as probably late spring or early summer of 1931, but after 1926 they only recorded the ship dates in the ledger – and ship dates during the Depression were very much out of order. So it might have shipped in mid-1931, or shipped in 1933.. or 1935.. I’d go with 1931. And it sounds as though it’s a 99G, which is pretty uncommon in 30-30 and very popular with collectors. The 99G had a pistol grip buttstock, checkering, and was a takedown model. The ledgers would probably only record the store that ordered it, but it might be worth getting a letter since your family history links it to a rather famous person.
There is information on lettering a Savage 99 at the bottom of the page below:
https://savagelevers.com/savage-serial-numbers-what-the-date-means/
Edit. By looking at the history of JP Morgan guessing it might be JP jr. as I mentioned what I have been told is a story. Also wanted to add the 99 has a metal buttplate and is a breakdown model. Thank you