I Have This Old Gun: Savage Arms Model 99

Published on November 27, 2024
Duration: 5:21

This video explores the history and technical innovations of the Savage Arms Model 99 lever-action rifle. It highlights Arthur Savage's genius in design and business, focusing on the rifle's unique rotary top-loading magazine, which allowed for the safe use of spitzer bullets and versatility in rechambering. The discussion also covers its distinction as the first hammerless lever-action rifle and its initial chambering in .303 Savage.

Quick Summary

The Savage Model 99 was a groundbreaking lever-action rifle, notable for its rotary top-loading magazine that safely accommodated spitzer bullets and for being the first hammerless lever-action. Designed by Arthur Savage, it also featured a unique round counter and was initially chambered in .303 Savage.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Arthur Savage's Genius
  2. 00:11Model 1899 Lever Action
  3. 00:21Savage 1899: A Cool Lever Action
  4. 00:31Early Design & Smokeless Powder Era
  5. 00:44Arthur Savage: Businessman & Inventor
  6. 00:551889 Rotary Magazine Patent
  7. 01:031892 Army Trials
  8. 01:14Market for New Design
  9. 01:24Safe Spitzer Bullet Use
  10. 01:38Versatility & Rechambering
  11. 01:45Commercial Sporter Version (Model 1895)
  12. 02:00Late 1890s Invention: Round Counter
  13. 02:35Enclosed Mechanism & Receiver Complexity
  14. 02:52Top Locking Bolt & Lever Safety
  15. 03:04Rotary Internal Magazine Innovation
  16. 03:21American Platform: Lever Action Rifle
  17. 03:36Magazine Cartridge Control
  18. 03:39First Caliber: 303 Savage
  19. 03:44303 Savage vs. British 303
  20. 03:53303 Savage vs. 3030
  21. 04:03Unique Round at Introduction
  22. 04:07Various Models & Chamberings
  23. 04:1320+ Different Rounds
  24. 04:20Receiver as Canvas for Engravers
  25. 04:25Museum Model: C.A. Gross
  26. 04:33Takedown Model
  27. 04:36First Hammerless Lever Action
  28. 04:42Serial Number 1 Million
  29. 04:49Discontinuation: Manufacturing Costs
  30. 05:05No New Production
  31. 05:09Enthusiast Contentment
  32. 05:14Enduring Strength

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Savage Model 99 rifle unique for its time?

The Savage Model 99 was notable for its rotary top-loading magazine, which allowed for the safe use of spitzer (pointed) bullets, a feature uncommon in lever-action rifles of that era. It was also the first hammerless lever-action rifle ever designed.

When was the Savage Model 99 first designed and what was its initial caliber?

The design for the Savage Model 1899 (precursor to the 99) began around 1892, coinciding with the advent of smokeless powder. Its first caliber was the distinctive .303 Savage.

What was Arthur Savage's key innovation for the Model 99?

Arthur Savage's primary innovation for this rifle was the rotary internal magazine, which not only allowed for safer use of spitzer bullets but also contributed to the rifle's overall strength and versatility in chambering different cartridges.

Why was the Savage Model 99 discontinued?

Despite its popularity and innovative design, the Savage Model 99 was eventually discontinued due to prohibitive manufacturing costs. This is a common fate for many legacy firearm designs throughout the 20th century.

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