NRA Gun of the Week: Savage Model 99 Rifle

Published on December 26, 2015
Duration: 3:18

This review highlights the Savage Model 99's innovative design, including its lack of an external hammer and a unique rotary magazine, setting it apart from contemporaries. Mark Keefe discusses its robust bolt action, safety mechanisms, and various chamberings. Despite its popularity and historical significance, the rifle's complex manufacturing ultimately led to its discontinuation.

Quick Summary

The Savage Model 99 rifle was innovative for its time, featuring an internal rotary magazine and no external hammer, unlike many competing lever-actions. Its bolt locked by tilting down, handling higher pressures, and it offered both lever and tang safeties. Popular calibers included .300 Savage and .308 Winchester.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting Footage
  2. 00:42Design History & Innovations
  3. 01:06Action & Safety Mechanisms
  4. 01:34Indicators & Caliber Options
  5. 02:28Manufacturing Challenges & Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Savage Model 99 rifle unique compared to its contemporaries?

The Savage Model 99 stood out due to its lack of an external hammer and its innovative internal rotary magazine, differentiating it from many Winchester and Marlin lever-action rifles of the era.

What were some key features of the Savage Model 99's action and safety?

It featured a bolt that locked by tilting down in the back, capable of handling higher pressures. Early models used a lever safety, later replaced by a tang safety for improved user control.

In which calibers was the Savage Model 99 commonly chambered?

The Model 99 was chambered in a variety of calibers throughout its production, including .303 Savage, .300 Savage, .22 Savage High Power, and later .308 Winchester.

Why was the Savage Model 99 eventually discontinued?

Despite its popularity and innovative design, the rifle was expensive and complex to manufacture. Financial difficulties for Savage Arms and production challenges ultimately led to its discontinuation.

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