The Savage Model 99 stands as one of the most innovative and enduring lever-action rifles in American firearms history. Introduced at the close of the 19th century, it broke away from traditional lever-action limitations and helped redefine what such rifles could achieve.
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The story begins with Arthur Savage, an inventor and entrepreneur whose vision differed sharply from that of his contemporaries. In 1894, Savage developed a new type of lever-action rifle that would eventually evolve into the Model 99. Unlike the tubular magazine systems used in most lever guns of the time, Savage designed a rotary magazine, which allowed the safe use of pointed (spitzer) bullets. This was a major advancement, as pointed bullets offered better aerodynamics and improved long-range performance.
The rifle was officially introduced as the Model 1899 by Savage Arms, and later became known simply as the Model 99. It quickly gained attention for its modern design, strength, and versatility. One of its most distinctive features was the built-in cartridge counter, a small window that allowed the shooter to see how many rounds remained in the magazine—an uncommon and practical innovation for its time.
The Model 99 also became closely associated with the .300 Savage cartridge, introduced in 1920. This cartridge was designed to deliver performance approaching that of military rounds like the .30-06 Springfield but in a shorter, more compact case suitable for lever-action rifles. The pairing of the Model 99 with .300 Savage helped cement its reputation as a powerful and accurate hunting rifle.
Throughout the early and mid-20th century, the Model 99 became a favorite among North American hunters. Its sleek profile, lack of an external hammer, and solid receiver made it well-suited for mounting optical sights—something that many competing lever-action rifles struggled with. Hunters appreciated its reliability in harsh conditions and its ability to handle a wide range of game, from deer to larger species like elk and moose.
Over the decades, Savage produced numerous variations of the Model 99, including takedown models, lightweight carbines, and deluxe versions with higher-grade wood and finishes. Production continued for nearly a century, a testament to the rifle’s lasting appeal.
By the late 20th century, however, changing market preferences and the rise of bolt-action rifles led to declining demand. Production of the Model 99 was eventually discontinued in 1998.
Today, the Savage Model 99 is highly regarded by collectors and shooting enthusiasts alike. Its blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and historical significance ensures its place as one of the most important lever-action rifles ever made.
Serial Numbers At Year End 1899 to 1950:
10,000 1899
13,400 1900
19,500 1901
25,000 1902
35,000 1903
45,000 1904
53,000 1905
67,500 1906
73,500 1907
81,000 1908
95,000 1909
110,000 1910
119,000 1911
131,000 1912
146,500 1913
162,000 1914
175,500 1915
187,500 1916
193,000 1917
N/A 1918
212,500 1919
229,000 1920
237,500 1921
244,500 1922
256,000 1923
270,000 1924
280,000 1925
292,500 1926
305,000 1927
317,000 1928
324,500 1929
334,500 1930
338,500 1931
341,000 1932
344,500 1933
345,800 1934
350,800 1935
359,800 1936
N/A 1937
381,351 1938
388,640 1939
398,400 1940
416,000 1941
438,000 1946
464,000 1947
494,000 1948
528,000 1949
566,000 1950
1951-1968
595,000-620,000 made in 1951
620,000-652,000 made in 1952
652,000-720,000 made in 1953
720,000-756,000 made in 1954
756,000-775,000 made in 1955
775,000-800,000 made in 1956
800,000-900,000 are very uncommon, only 502 99’s were made in between this serial range most of them starting with 835,XXX as the first three numbers.
900,000-925,000 made in 1956
925,000-952,000 made in 1957
952,000-960,000 made in 1958
960,000-968,000 made in 1959
968,000 stopped the 900’s and the move to Westfield Mass started the 1,000,000 serial range.
1,000,000-1,010,000 made in 1960
1,010,000-1,039,000 made in 1961
1,039,000-1,053,000 made in 1962
1,053,000-1,065,000 made in 1963
1,065,000-1,084,000 made in 1964
1,084,000-1,110,200 made in 1965
1,110,200-1,130,000 made in 1966
1,130,000-1,160,000 made in 1967
1,160,000-1,182,000 made in 1968
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