The Art of Gun Collecting - Savage Model 99

A review of variants of the savage model 99 including takedown, magazine fed and a few others from my collection

[@leadpilled5567]

My grandfathers boss got him a savage 99 in 300 savage in the 50s. My dad got the rifle after his death then it was passed down to me. It was drilled and tapped for a scope from the factory and originally had a 21/2 weaver scope with a post reticle. The rifle has shot more deer than I can even imagine. Since my dad passed away I take the rifle out ever opening day as a way to spend opening day with my dad like we did for so many years. I haven’t missed a deer in many many years but I think my dad is messing with me cause I’ve missed multiple deer with the savage. I think he’s having a little fun with me still. I’ve got a safe full of guns and I’m always buying and trading but 2 rifles I will never be trading away are this savage and a Winchester 94 with pretty much all the bluing worn away. Earlier this year I was wiping down everything in the safe and I noticed on the side of the Winchester my grandfathers initials are scratched. Guns are such a wonderful way to express family history and tradition.

[@craigschiller1599]

What a unique rifle. Rotary mag, takedown barrel, ammo counter, thanks for sharing your knowledge & collection.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for watching Craig - so many interesting guns out there.

[@jassaco4290]

I have a model 99 with the lever safety and brass counter. My dad bought it for me when I was a kid. In excellent shape. Very accurate and a hard hitting rifle. I still use it for hunting and when I hit a deer it does not run. Never had to trail a deer. Love it.

[@kierstenidzorek6532]

Bought the airgun kzbin.infoUgkxQt2uORDRfFOVSrO4idv4B90ThT6EOnEL for pest control. Initially sighted-in with lead pellets but after about 100 shots decided to upgrade to the faster PBA Platinum pellets (spec'd at 1250 fps). The picture shows the distribution of 11 pellets on a target at ~20 yards. Overall, very happy with the handling of the Varmint, little recoil, no scope creep (make sure to follow the installation instructions that include the lock pin!), lightweight and fits nicely in a standard carrying case. The airgun is loud, more so shooting with PBA pellets. Something to consider if that's a possible issue in your environment / neighborhood.Update: considering upgrading to a more powerful 0.22, likely Gamo Magnum. I'm not thrilled about using toxic lead pellets but there's no other way to get sufficient impact without lead weight as far as I can tell, which is needed for adult iguanas pest control.

[@mdh6977]

I love my savage model 99 in .308... it's old enough to have the brass rotary mag with counter window, but has the tang safety... as far as i was able to tell is it was made in the last year or 2 when they still did the counter... I've since taken the scope off and it makes a beautiful 100 -150 yrd "bush gun" with the irons... thanks for the video... a new sub from Canada

[@DeerHunter308]

Steel and Wood. There is no substitute. All the plastic gun manufacturers can talk about their "all weather" stocks etc., but taking care of Steel and Wood has its own rewards. Gun collecting includes a lot of looking at the beauty of the guns in your collection and appreciating the designs and workmanship involved in industrial manufacture. I will forever regret selling my 99 in 300 Savage. Bought for 200 ish in the seventies then sold for 300 ish in the eighties when a new baby and a wife who didn't work forced a sacrifice. Oh well, looking forward to possible re acquiring one in the near future.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Martin - Well, you sold for the right reason : ) I hope you buy another 99 - they're around and not too expensive. Guns are one of the few things that last and last and you can go back in time with them - quite unique. All the best to you.

[@charlesmccoy5857]

They are great old guns, ahead of their time in my opinion. I own 3 of them. One in 30-30, one in 300 Sav, and one in ,308. The 30-30 was made in 1908 and the action is still as tight as new. I will never sell them, Grandkids probably will.

[@romeolima5339]

Send me your grandkids number. LOL I'm in the same boat. I wish and hope one day the kids will share my passion. I have a 1928 model 99 300 Sav. My father gave it to me when I was 16. I shot my first buck of many that year with that rifle. I lost dad this year. So I retired that model 99. It will not see the woods again as long as I live. I will be looking for a different 99 to take to the woods. I have a really nice firearms collection and have made a bit of a name for myself using them. But I would give up both the collection and the recognition. Just to have one more day with the man who slapped me on the back proudly. after I shot the buck with his gift. I love that rifle and the man. Firearms are nice to collect. But I am blessed to have so many with value you can not measure in money. Dad always said and lived by "people are more important than things." Now that he is gone I can hardly bear the loss. Him and I forged a relationship few will ever know. We did it with cold steel, hot lead, wild water and warm hearts. I miss him.

[@Irelandrbi]

I just uploaded a video on page. Would love your input.

[@yearzero974]

I bought one yesterday. 1948 production, 300 Savage, non-takedown, round counter but not brass, the original rear sight is missing but there is a nice tang mounted Marble Arms peep sight. The receiver has five holes drilled in it for scope mounting, at least there are plugs screwed into the holes and they aren't randomly drilled, appears to have been done by a decent gunsmith. The wood is OK, bluing is good, color case is too. I thought it was fairly priced at $375 out the door. The action on these is very smooth, the lever snaps open with little effort as it is a cock on closing design. I don't really have that much use for it other than that I like lever guns and a 99 has been on my list for years, Winchesters being my main area of interest. I'll get a barrel mounted rear sight on it eventually, just to complete the gun. As always, thank-you for another fine video, they are always very informative.

[@HighHippy101]

Spent time talking about this rifle with my grandfather, we grew close in his final years. He happened to have one, but due to some issues with his will and family issues, i was not able to inherit the rifle. I managed to find and buy Sav 99F. I threw on his gun sling he game me. Everytime i use this rifle, clean it or look at it. I see all the stuff we talked about, the rotary, the cartridge counter, hammerless design, and the unique safety mechanism. I get to relive those conversations we had about his rifle, the drinks we shared during the deer hunt, and the fact that he could out shoot me without a scope lol 😆 This gun, is a masterpiece. For me its also a reminder of good memories, but with the collectible nature amd the history around these rifles, even without those memories, this is a rifle that people can look at and use and feel like you are in a time machine. Its a brilliant rifle.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Wonderful post; thank you for sharing. More than most things, guns last and can carry a lot of meaning. From wars to hunts - quite often the only property remaining after a person moves on is his or her gun. I agree with you about the 99 : brilliant. God Bless.

[@craigbragg3920]

Thank you for the video. The first “full size” rifle i shot as a kid was my grandfather’s 300 model 99…. This makes me want to call my uncle to see if he still has it and if he would part with it. Thank you

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Do it.

[@joeguzman3558]

What a pleasure learning from a Master .

[@snakesandsticks]

I have an old ‘99 my dad gave me when I made my first kill when I was a kid. Probably one of my most prized possessions.

[@marksmith9295]

I inherited a 303 savage model 99 saddle ring carbine made in 1913 with a few old Dominion shells. Had used as a bear gun in remote camps in Northern Saskatchewan in the 80s but thankfully only shot targets. Could get cartridges then but tough to find now although I did manage to get two boxes of 190 grain from Epps a bunch of years ago for about same price Hornady 150 grain go for when available. Gun shot very flat out to 150 yards and was very easy to shoulder. My Dad (when 13) and his older brother had bought from a cowboy down in his luck back in the 30s. He used for deer, moose and nuisance bears. I cant imagine the stories it could tell before my father got it.

[@charlesjenkins1225]

i have a 99 . from the mid 60's in 98% shape. And I love it .

[@electriczzzzz]

Mine is a original it was bought right when the manufactured it all the old guns i have in the fam where bought right when the came out but my md 99 shoots a 300 sav but my Winchester 1873 shoots a 44-40

[@aaronbuckmaster7063]

We have the 1899 inherited by my grandfather. It has the brass rotter in 300 Savage. That time was when you could get almost any modifications you wanted. That rifle has a 32 inch barrel. It’s well worn but that barrel makes it looks like a fishing pole. It’s quite unique.

[@u.p.woodtick3296]

Aaron Buckmaster sweet !

[@jaydee1532]

Underrated lever gun and one of my favorite.... and in my opinion one of the most beautiful .... very good video sir

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jay

[@Bayan1905]

Another thing that grabs the collectors, the very earliest of the 1899's had a loaded chamber indicator that was a small bar that raised slightly up and you could just see it, then they went to the small post style loaded chamber indicator that was much easier to see. The Savage 1899 had more variations, calibers, options, etc. than I think any other rifle out there during it's time.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point - I checked my 30-30 and you're right - the indicator is there. I'm sure I noticed it before but didn't think about it. Thanks for writing.

[@andybungert]

Wow. I I learned so much from watching this. Had not seen the breakdown one before, and I'm ecstatic to see that there are ones with the drop magazine because that's more of what I'm interested in.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I'm glad Andy. I hope you find what you're looking for. The 99 is a gem.

[@roeng1368]

Excellent video as always. Lovely guns, probably a design ahead of its time. I believe from what i have read, that they were simply too expensive to manufacture towards the end. Savage simply could not make money from them. They did try to revive the rifle relatively recently , but soon stopped. A pity.

[@electriczzzzz]

My model 99 is a 300 savage with 1 of the original weatherby scopes on it and I got a model 1873 44-40 made in April 1873

[@bobbyjackbecker]

So my dad passed away last year (damn cancer) and he had 2 rifles. Well one of them he was extremely proud of, and it was his savage 99. He passed them down to me, and after some quick research I discovered his Savage is from 1949, and still in really great shape! I'm sure I could cash it in for a pretty penny, but the memories it holds, and the ones it will garner will be worth more than any price tag.

[@ChromeArty]

Never sell it.

[@bobbyjackbecker]

Oh there is no way I'd do that

[@rickbattle5706]

Very informative. Excellent!!! 😃

[@rndball5457]

I have a 99 EG in .300 Savage, picked it up while on vacation in the Adirondacks over 10 years ago. I got a vintage weaver 1.5 sight with a Stith mount installed and it is just beautiful, not without some wear. Thanks for showing some real great guns on your channel.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a perfect rig. I'm still trying to find those Stith mounts for my 99. Thanks for writing.

[@charleswittmer2477]

I can just set and daydream about what these old guns saw and went through. moisture really took a toll on some of them. when the metal is dark up against the wood the chemicals in the wood and the moisture from hunting in the rain or in a boat really turned the wood dark from the rust on the metal in the joints.

[@fdmackey3666]

I just discovered, stumbled up on actually, your channel and upon seeing that the subject matter of this video is the Savage Model 99 immediately subscribed! And irony of ironies the first two 99s you feature are virtual twins to my .250-3000 and .308 with the exception that my .250-3000 is NOT a take down model. I have other rifles to choose from for hunting but my Savage 99s are my favorites and I keep my out for others all the time.

[@1LonePuma]

. *APPRECIATE THE REVIEW...THEY TRULY ARE FANTASTIC RIFLES! ;-)*

[@grandelfe]

My father survived 6 years of fighting in WW2 but almost got killed by a charging moose, when he kept shooting it with his Savage 99.His partner shot it dead with his 30-06 before it hit him...... It turned out that my father emptied his magazine, into a one inch portion of the moose's skull, and they all somehow ricocheted off.

[@KHugg1776]

One of the few on my collection list

[@pepepepert]

I inherited my father's and his grand father's model 99F in 300 savage from 1951. It has the level safety and brass counter and round in chamber indicator. This will be my deer rifle this season.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

A great rifle that carries a lot of meaning; it doesn't get any better.

[@russellmiller212]

Missed you dearly sir! Belated 4th greetings to you and your family!

[@davidwagner4671]

Good video keep them coming.

[@jamescampbellhenderson1689]

The breakdown version was used in detail in Clive Cusslers book the the assassin with Isaac Bell,

[@beameroni75]

I just got my grandfather's 99 from my dad who is 80 years young.....looked up the serial number and it was manufactured in 1927!!! Needs some work (the firing pin is missing) but it looks incredible for its age. Thanks for the great video!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Hugh. That is a very fine family rifle! Numrich Gun Parts should have the firing pin. I hope you get it shooting soon! Thanks for writing.

[@charleswittmer2477]

is there a possibility the firing pin was removed for safety and is just put away in a "safe" place?

[@missey3164]

Great video thanks again for sharing. I have a 99 in 358 and absolutely love it. If a take down well over a thousand

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You have a gem there - people line up to buy - when one shows up - which isn't very often.

[@boomstick4054]

Dang! My new favorite rifle!

[@johnpace3232]

Love mine it’s a old rifle but she’s a track driver.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi John, Those are the ones one never sells : )

[@billbye1432]

love my .284 w/ roller mag. and the counter.

[@jesusoftheapes]

My all time favorite rifle. i love this rifle. I love many but still to this day consider the 99 to be the apex lever rifle and i prefer the rotary magazine vs the detachable box. the round counter and unfailing rotary mag combined with balance and the best draw to my shoulder of any rifle ever made. i switched to a 94 for fun last year just to change it up but will always have a 99 in the equation of any hunting adventure I an apart of.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree - the 99 is superb - and likely the best.

[@jesusoftheapes]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns The 1895 Winchester is a good one but the simplicity and pure ease of use make the 99 the best. I wish the triggers were more adjustable but I have never been the guy who disliked the trigger they come with. I like the older versions with the simple slide safety on the side of the lever better than the tang safety versions but really I'd choose any 99 over almost any other commercial hunting rifle if I was only looking for one rifle to feed my family with. They will always fire and will always feed correctly. they shoot as straight as a bolt and feel weightless on the shoulder. i use lots of lever action rifles for hunting. I choose to do this because I love a lot of different rifles and it's just fun to take history in the woods with you so my 99s get shelved more than they deserve.

[@jamesdettlaff9415]

I used to think. Drop my a** off In the Canadian mountains My choice would be my 99 in 308 A Strong knife, good boots. 200 rounds. Oh don't forget a bic lighter And A fishing pole. That would be the closest to heaven I could get.

[@hottwheels31]

What a great video thank you

[@billbye2427]

love my savage 99 in the .284 cal. the only bad thing about the rifle is having to deal with olin mfg. for the .284 new cartridges and ammunition. Great round and Olin Knows it!

[@Rossplanet]

I believe the prefix 'A' refers to the year of manufacture as 1949. Subsequent letters B, C, etc., refer to 1950, 1951, etc. An important feature of this gun is that it can handle pointed Spitzer bullets unlike lever actions with tube magazines. The .300 Savage is only about 75 fps slower than a .30-06 in a shorter cartridge. It is the forerunner of the .308 Winchester, which this gun can handle as well.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Useful to know - I hope people read your post. Thanks for taking the time.

[@elzorro9987]

I have a Savage Model 99 EG, which has the Schnabel fore-end, which is very elegant looking. It has the cartridge counter, the lever safety and, of course, the rotary magazine. It is in 250-3000. I managed to find a Stith scope mount, which used existing threaded holes and the rear safety channel for mounting, so no drilling and tapping was required. I absolutely love this rifle.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a very fine rifle - one of the quickest pointing and that 250-3000 is excellent - as you know. When the .243 and .244 (6mm Remington) came out they were all the rage; yet the 250-3000 and .257 Roberts were already there and can use heavier bullets. I guess people liked the zip the smaller .243/6mm bore 100 gr. or so bullets offered. Anyway, that Stith mount is a gem - been looking for one for years. Good find!

[@charleswittmer2477]

you will need a early small tube scope to fit that mount.

[@jeremynoakes]

Excellent video. We here in Canada where I live Love the 250 savage and 300 when you can find the ammo .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great country - Canada - plenty of 99s in the woods; the 250 and 300 and 303 - all reliable, proven...lasting.

[@Mimbresriver]

Growing up I was fortunate to have a Dad who made a career out of the Air Force and had grown up with a passion for hunting and a love for firearms. My true love was my Dads 30.06 Springfield off limits for me for a number of years but that brought about a unique opportunity to become the proud owner of a rare version and caliber of the Savage Model 99E. The Model 99E .22 Hi Power Savage!!! And if my memory is correct firing a 70 grain bullet from a center fire cartridge. The accuracy of that rifle was unreal I couldn’t miss with it. Wound up giving it to a close family friend my Dad served with because we couldn’t find ammunition anywhere but Canada and even that got scarce I do remember we tried in vain to find the reloading equipment for it even then we were limited on brass so we parted ways. I have searched over the years out of curiosity but could never find anything on them!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That 99 in .22 Hi Power is a gem. I think ammo is available from Sellier and Bellot.

[@Mimbresriver]

@USOG I miss that 22 Hi Pwr to this day. Wish Savage had made a few more!!!

[@johnhayman4126]

I have a 99 in .22 Hi Power. I have not shot it in forty years but it was fine then. May clean it up and see.....

[@Mimbresriver]

john hayman if you wouldn’t mind let me know how things turn out...bet it picks up right where you left off what ever you do enjoy it!!!!

[@joshuatoler1965]

i picked up the first one you showed in .250 from an uncle that died a while back it was a deer killer way back in the day.

[@rcruz003]

I have a older model 99 like the one you described . Great rifles Subscribed

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a keeper : )

[@jasonforester4572]

Hello Mike. I just got my first ever Savage 99. I've owned lever guns before. All Winchester 94's, but sold them years ago. Some to my regret as a couple of them were pre 64. I've always wanted to get a Savage 99 but could never find one in reasonable condition. Until now. I was looking through Prophet River's site and found this one there and contacted Clayton and purchased it. I just checked the serial number to find the date of manufacture. Turns out it's one year younger than me! It was made in 1965. I've been looking it over and I'm beginning to think that it may not have ever been fired. There's not a single scratch on the stock. There is a very little amount wearing of the blueing where it is common under the action. But no wearing of the blueing on the barrel or at the muzzle. It's been handled over the years but is still in very good condition. What has me thinking it MIGHT not have been fired is I've observed that the chamber still has the blueing finish at the entrance where I can see it. No wear at all. Also, there's still a sticker on the butt plate with the serial number printed on it. I'm guessing that was put there at the factory when it was manufactured. It's still bright white and pristine. I'm thinking if someone put even one box of ammo through the rifle, that sticker would not survive in place after enduring the forces of recoil between the butt plate and shoulder. I have a question for you. There are no sling swivel attachment points on it. I'd like to add that so I don't get in the habit of carrying it around by the action. The butt stock has no hole drilled for stud attachment. But the forearm has what looks like some kind of insert with a screw set flush within it. It's not a takedown. So my question is, what is that? Is it for a stud to attach a sling swivel? It's the right size for that. I've been looking online and so far have not come across an explanation. Would you happen to know? If it's a mounting screw for the forearm like my Ruger No.1, then would it still be able to be utilized as a location for a swivel stud? It's a 99F in .308. Thanks Mike, I'd appreciate any information you could pass along about that.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello my friend - You bought a gem. I think I know that rifle. The screw is to hold the forend onto the barrel. I would leave that intact; although I have seen people modify so the screw holds the barrel and is also a sling swivel. If I had to have a sling I would not modify the scarce original condition 99 and use a sling held on by leather laces or something like this : fiddlebackoutpost.com/en-ca/products/rlo-custom-leather-no-drill-harnessed-rifle-sling

[@jasonforester4572]

Thank you very much! That may also be a solution for my Ithaca as well. 👍

[@christian30061]

My father was a lifelong model 99 guy. but I gravitated to the Winchester model 94 for Pennsylvania deer hunting. I found a really nice one about fifty years ago; chambered in 250 savage, with the perch belly stock, tang sight, take down and the rare, checkered trigger. He loved that rifle and now it is in my collection, as I haven't had the heart to sell it,

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great one to keep Christian - I had exactly that rifle - and foolishly sold it!

[@christian30061]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Trust me my good man, I have sold many rifles that I kick myself in the behind on. The One gun that I am going to ask forgiveness for selling is the beat-up, but very operational and accurate prewar model 94 32 special that my dad gave me as my first deer rifle. I still have the hunter special 410 double that he gave me in 1953. You know when one sells something dear to them; you just hope and pray that there is someone out there that will cherish it in the same way you did. When I hold these old guns; it is almost like going back in time and having your family back together or holding another firearm and wondering what it was like back in the day.....the history.

[@montycrain5783]

A Great Modern Lever Action…….introduced in 1899 and before the Marlin 336. To this days it seems like it’s before it’s time. Maybe it will be made again in another 10 years. I love the Design. The Styling is a hit or miss for me though. My favorite would be the old takedown with a straight stock and a Shnabel tip. I remember Ace Lever Gun tuner”Mic McPhereson built a great series of Wildcat 99s based on the 284 Winchester case from .243 up to a .375/.284. The 99 in .284 was introduced with the rotary mag. To me the only currenty produced lever action comparable to a 99 is the Browning BLR. I’d love to see Savage follow S&W’slead and move production from anti gun Massachusetts to a Gun friendly Southern state and innovate a way to restart production of a Modern 99 with a Deluxe Takedown with Walnut model in 284 Winchester with a appropriate barrel twist. . It a much more efficient cartridge than 308 or 6.5 Creedmoor.

[@58efd]

Have several 99's, I try to get older ones. Now I want a 1899. Just looked at auction....over a grand for them. If found at 5 or 6 hundred, like you said, snap it up! Great video, thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello 58 - yes indeed - the quality rifle just keep going up - there isn't much on the market that compares in quality until you spend $2000. or so. The rest are plasticy.

[@jerryavallone1679]

I have a Savage Model 99C in 243 cal. It has been a safe queen for many years, Recently I took it out to inspect and removed the empty magazine. I have not been able to reinstall the magazine and would appreciate any suggestion to reinstall it. Thank you for any assistance you may provide. Rgds, Jerry A.

[@Irelandrbi]

I inherited a Savage 300 from my Grandfather. It’s in incredible condition. Is there a way to learn value and age? I see a serial number and some other markings. Just curious what I have. Thanks

[@novadronetechnologiesinc.3299]

Thank u man I love u content u r the best no one else like u on KZbin hats off good sir 🎩 , all I have is a sks 😬

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Nova, Thank you for your kind words - they mean a lot to me. Have the best Christmas and a great 2022!

[@timmicalizzi744]

I own a model 1899 in 300 Savage....great condition....hand checkering... takedown model...rear peep sight....a real looker!.....I took a black bear with it in Canada back in 1997...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tim, If I have the right model in mind, I think you have the best 99 they made. I have the same rifle in 250 Savage.

[@adkrock1]

I have the same as you Tim, it belonged to my Grandfather. I have shot it but but never hunted with it. I was told it's value is around $800-$900.

[@raptorman2666]

Im looking for this exact rifle right now. hard to find

[@OutnBacker]

To be accurate, no 1899 was made in .300 Savage. That cartridge came out in 1920, I believe, and the model designation "1899" changed to "99" some time earlier. IMO, the .300 Savage is one of the greatest medium game rounds ever designed, and it almost became the NATO cartridge but Winchester had the political and financial clout to swamp Savage arms with the ability to manufacture their new.308 Win or, 7.62 NATO. The M-99 in .300 Savage was the most popular of all the calibers in this rifle. That is a testament of performance at a time when WWI made the 30-06 the Go-To civilian cartridge because of the excellent reportage from the war and because of the many 1903 Springfields that were bought and sporterized. I love my 99EG - not sure about the EG - (1937) and consider it to be a true masterpiece of both beauty and practicality. It is by far the best balanced, fastest to the shoulder, most accurate, lever action I have ever owned.

[@badwild19992003]

i have one i would sell you for the right price

[@chrischiampo8106]

I’ve Got The Savage 1899 Takedown But Mine is In .303 Savage Also Have Brass Counter ,Lever Safety ,Rotary Magazine .😊 I’ve Shot it And It’s Savagely Accurate I Love The Buckhorn Sight I’ve Found no Other Lever Action as Smooth and Slick 😎👍🏼😀👍🏼 Mine Also Has the Loaded Chamber Indicator That Pops Up On The Top Of the Receiver

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You have the works in your 99 - as good as it gets. Now if only Winchester started regular production of the .303 Savage again.

[@nathanzablotny4204]

Love my Model 99. Mine was made right before they started removing the cartridge counter and putting in box magazines (C model.) It's chambered in .300 savage. Expensive round, but has pretty close to the accuracy and power of a .308, but with a lot less recoil. This is probably the most desireable of the Model 99s. If you see one like this for a fair price, grab it. They can be worth up to $1800 in good condition. That, and they are just fenominal guns to shoot.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for sharing - I agree - that .300 Savage is one of those excellent cartridges that one doesn't hear much about. Paired with your also excellent Model 99 - no wonder that combination was a best seller for years and although no regular production .300 Savage has been in production for some time - the ammo still sells well - even though not inexpensive; which means the rifle and round are still out there working hard and well.

[@Bayan1905]

I used to work with a man who had a die hard passion for Savage 1899's and had one in every model. Myself, I only really want one, the 1899B in .38-55. I did just pick up a 1899H solid frame in .30-30 that's more of a shooter and I can't believe how light that gun is.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hope you get your 1899B soon - so fine - although I don't have one : ( Your H is a gem as well.

[@andrewbobro3374]

Great video. I collect as you do. Not picky, but just want good examples.

[@billygerbilly1277]

My late Dad had one of the desirable Savage 1899s. He bought it (on a whim) in the early 1950s. It was a takedown chambered in .22 Savage Hi Power and had a beautiful Lyman scope. My grandfather, who was an excellent shot with a rifle; kept it for years at his home in the woods 7 miles north of Brainerd MN. Frankly, neither of them had any use for this prize. It was sold off in about 1960 over ammo availability concerns. They're gone and the gun? Well, it was just a thing, a memory. God bless.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Such a nice note; your Dad picked a good one - he may have had something in mind or maybe just knew a fine rifle. Nice that the Savage was around - we tend to remember them well. Things come and things go - but a good memory can last a lifetime. God Bless You.

[@dallasbr]

great video, learned alot

[@jeffreyreardon7487]

another cool commercial firearm I didn't know existed

[@Twistedspeedo]

Great channel. Thanks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I appreciate your kind words!

[@bobfine8206]

In 1946 my step dad got a250-3000 from his uncle. When I was 10 my dad gave it to me. I had it until 1960 . I left it at my mothers house and she lent it to a siding salesman that she dated without asking me. The last time he or the gun was seen. By us anyway.I had a sported Springfield 03 in the closet that I wouldn’t have mourned as much.

[@garyK.45ACP]

I LOVE these rifles. I do not own one. :( I got into collecting Winchesters and that consumed most of my time and disposable $$$ for many years. But I have lately been thinking of adding a few Model 99s to my collection. I prefer the Model 1899 and I love the .250 Savage and .300 Savage cartridges (which I DO have rifles chambered for) In my opinion the .300 Savage is THE BEST deer cartridge ever made. Thanks for a great video on a great rifle.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Gary! That is a great use for disposable income. I knew quite a few people that bought guns and little else. Some quit and and then I asked why? They said they stopped gun collecting to save money - and found that they still had no money - and no guns. The other way they could at least sell their guns as needed....so they returned to the fold : ) As for the .300 Savage - could well be - everything falls down, reasonable recoil, short action...yup - could be. Have a great weekend.

[@garyK.45ACP]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns My Grandfather was a gun guy and collected firearm made designed by John Browning. My father was a gun guy and collected mostly Winchesters and Colt firearms. I inherited most of their collections so I had a head start on Winchesters and Colt revolvers. :) The .300 Savage I own is a Remington Model 81. The .250 Savage is a Ruger M77 International. But I always liked the Savage M99, even as a teenager, I thought they were nice rifles. I am watching them on Gunbroker and checking out the market.

[@stormbringer1876]

I remember once when someone discussed "the art of the rifle" in your comments, about the straight pull, I mentioned that the US version of the "Straight pull" was older, giving the Savage 99 as the most advanced rifle of its day. A comparison between the Merkel Helix, Blaser R8 and the Henry Long Ranger might show an interesting theme. All were made for "running boar" shooting, all approach the idea in a different way and surprisingly accuracy on any of them is more reliant on the shooter than the rifle. Oh and as an interesting addition, all can be carried "chamber loaded, un-cocked" so legal in those places. While they are not Arthur Savage's masterpiece, they do approach the best way to have a rapid second shot differently with the head not raising from the sights. Thought you might appreciate that.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - well considered words - thanks for the note. The only one I don't know well is the Long Ranger - your points make sense to me.

[@stormbringer1876]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns The Long Ranger is probably the "Best BLR" ever made. The trigger being the main difference. Levers were known for "functional triggers" and bolts for "precision". a 4 pound short crisp 2 stage is nice on anything. But as a Boar Rifle?, possibly the best.

[@martybeckman5178]

X Girlfriend's father has a savage model 99 in 300 caliber and my own father (May he R.I.P. I'm sorry !! ) but he had a model 99a in 358 cal. Loved that rifle and my brother sold it out from under me .. Not happy about it.... but, I know that rifle ment more to me than any other ones I own today ! ( The savage model 99a in .358 ) caliber

[@hankthetank2541]

My grandfather purchased a 99 back in 1958 and has had it ever since. There’s no boss code at all on it.. looked everywhere. It has the counter, the safety by the lever, a screw on the forearm and a serial code that starts with 740. The serial code puts the manufacture date in the 50’s but the lack of a boss code has me puzzled.. thoughts??

[@Seveneleven44]

Grandfather bought one brand new in 1961 for $99.07 from the A&P store. Grandparents were poor back then so pop had to borrow $10 for a down payment from his father-in-law, 300 savage caliber. All the men in our family since, have taken their first deer with that same rifle. Still has the original finish, no cracks in the stock and is in excellent condition.

[@lcjjr.6714]

I have a 1940’s vintage Savage 99 Gentleman’s Takedown Model with a 300 Savage barrel and 410 shotgun barrel in a nice leather case and cleaning kit. The wood is beautiful and it’s in excellent condition. Was wondering what is it worth?

[@jj-218]

I have one It says Savage 1899 SAV 303 Octagonal Barrel Lever safety Brass counter Serial number dates it back to 1909-1910

[@Trumplican]

thank you for the video the Savage 92, 95, and 1899 is my favorite gun ever! my uncle had 2 99F's a .243 and a .308. I got a deer from 500 yards with his .243

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That's an amazing shot!

[@Trumplican]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns yeah much luck involved probably!

[@johnkendall6962]

Only Savages with the rotary magazines can have a cartridge counter, really no way to put it on ones with a box magazine.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi John - you're 100% correct.

[@baby1971baby1971]

Amazing.

[@randypaul7570]

I love my 300 Savage

[@justinriley8651]

.22 savage high power? the rarest caliber and ammo for the 99. used to see one occasionally at gun shows but haven't for a long time.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Pretty little cartridge - and you're right - so hard to find.

[@bobbywilder2077]

Like 2 By A 99 In A22Hp call Bobby At 903 756 3097

[@robertwikgren2524]

A Great video. It made me buy a 99 in 308. Not that common in the north part of europe.

[@martybeckman5178]

My dad wanted me to have his 99a and my own brother took it and sold it from what I heard and yes, I am very upset about him doing that and will never forgive him either for selling this one rifle that should have been handed down to me.. so i know alot about this one rifle and yes , i shot the rifle and it was/ is a very nice rifle . It was /had / has the flip up sights and my dad also had a scope mounted on the (Savage .358 Caliber Model 99a ) I am still wanting one, but, I just wish it was my father's rifle . But, I will never forget about this one rifle I wanted / want so much also have a book that talks about the history of all of the Savage model 99a b,c, d. e, f .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Marty - sorry about your dad's 99A - it was and is a very special rifle - in .358 - not easy to find. On the other hand, I hope you can forgive your brother - material things come and go. Sorry if I sound preachy. There are books out there. Here is one : kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6Czf5V-bLOFj9k All the best Marty - I hope you find another .358 99.

[@georgemckenzie181]

I bought aRemington 760 in 1960 with 2 boxes of 30_06 I got a moose every year and still have some shells left .An old trapper taught me how to get game All my guns I got are collectable.but when I got them At that time “ I just bought a gun” ,a Mosburge 196 KA 16 gage .,A Marlin 56 22 ,,a Lee Enfeild MK4 #2and ,a 44_40 Remming ton Most have not shot a box of shells

[@davewinter2688]

Since this video came out the prices on the 284's have sky rocketed and the 99C and 99E without counters and with box magazines and tang safeties are in demand. The 358 Winchester versions have been high for a long time I'm still a purist. I have the light weight 99F in 300 Savage and 99EG in 250-3000 with it's original K-4 Weaver scope. Both from about 1957. I want more. I would take one of the newer ones in 250-3000 with the 1/10 twist to shoot bullets heavier than 120 grain weight. The original was 1/14. Ok for the 87 grain bullet and some 100 grainers. My 250 shoots the Remington 100 grain factory Core-Lokt under an inch at 100 yards. Unfortunately there are more calibers for the 99 than I have money.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Dave - You're so right - all the prices have gone through the roof - and I can't find any .284s - I think people are very reluctant to sell any guns; with a number of reasons for that. I hope you find your 1/10 .250 - Good luck and good shooting Dave.

[@MaximOfSurrey]

Everyone loves a Savage! A real grail rifle here for Canadian collectors is the Montreal Home Guard 99 in a 'musket' configuration. Lots of them after the war ended up with cut down stocks, thrown into sugar shacks, logging camps, and trapper's canoes.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Now I have to find one! Thanks!

[@MaximOfSurrey]

They're super cool rifles, and definitely worth picking up even if they got the hacksaw post-war. The Montreal Home Guard was a civilian para-military organization, and on joining members had the option of providing their own rifle, or buying a Savage that had been contracted out. Since they were all private purchase some proud members of the Home Guard took their new rifles to jewelers shops around Montreal to have their names engraved on. So if you do happen across a named rifle, it''ll most likely be technically 'correct' and not an artifact of Bubba's handiwork. Montreal also raised a regiment of volunteer Papal Zouaves that shipped over during the wars of Italian unification, and they also stuck around as an organization before fading out in the 1960's. Definitely an interesting city.

[@leeday7109]

USOG I have a 250 model 99 for two thousand

[@charleswittmer2477]

Interesting info to know about the 99

[@andymerk6017]

The timing of this vid was awesome. I scored a 99 takedown last week!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Some people have all the luck! Well done!!!

[@bobbywilder2077]

I would Like 2 By A 22 HP call Bobby At 903 756 3097

[@yearzero974]

Bought a beautiful 1899 today, 95%, takedown, scoped with no-drill rings. Has a Bausch&Lomb scope, crosshair with center post.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey YZ! - How did you find that rifle! I've searched for years. Amazing. The rifle would be astonishing on its own - and takedown is just about impossible to find in that condition. I suppose closets that were closed for decades are opening ... or being opened. Anyway, however it came to pass : good on you and bravo! The new rifles are totally different and in no way capture the essence of hunting. With our minds and technology we could kill everything, including ourselves as a species. Rifles are not about efficiency and plastic. Hunting is an art. Hunting is standing on a snowy trail, or any trail, and waiting and thinking. Our rifles are part of that essence. Pure hunting is a language and a way of life. A fast food burger or a supermarket steak has no meaning - and we all know that. That we have the privilege of providing for our families - some venison or other game - is a bonus. In the fields and forests we find the grounding and all the good and meaningful things that brought us to where we are. Sorry for the long words. It is just so clear to me that if we want to stop all the things that have gone wrong, the answer is not to take things away from people, but rather to return to the people we used to be. If we can get back who we were - all or most of the tragedies will end and become a part of history. Humanity is great. People are good and want to be good. It is other things that somehow get us to look away and darkness can follow. God bless you my friend.

[@yearzero974]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns A local shop bought part of a large collection, the seller was downsizing. There were twelve 1899s and 99s. This was the nicest. I'd like to send a pic. Also got a Stevens Visible Loader, a Marlin Model 20, and a Winchester Model 60. Going back tomorrow for a minty Winchester Model 69A.

[@erererer5]

Getting mine tomorrow!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Bravo. You'll never look back.

[@erererer5]

Thanks it’s a rare 1940 300 savage caliber.

[@erererer5]

It’s a carbine.

[@lamfarms361]

I know of someone who has a 300 savage and 308 win just like those both with round counters.

[@andiamocclash397]

shot my first buck with an original .250 that my great grandfather bought just after getting home from WW2. ill always have a soft spot for these guns and i would never dream of selling it

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a dream rifle and cartridge. I The .257 Roberts and 250-3000 have always been better than the .243 Win. and 6mm Rem. - but one can't say it too loud.

[@andiamocclash397]

its hard to find ammo though, good thing i have a great reload setup for it. it does indeed drive tacks

[@wiregrassga]

I came close to buying a 99 at a gun show in the 80's. It was the rotary magazine type and in .30-30 Win. It had been professionally restored and looked new and I believed that hurt the value so I passed. Now I regret because the asking price was reasonable. Is value really hurt by much even with a professional restoration job?

[@brianlee6849]

I think the 1899 is very cool. I like the tang sight do you know if the sight is original? I think this rifle was way ahead of it's time with the rotary magazine and spritzer bullets. I've heard people say that the 300 99s are very accurate. Thanks Mike 👍

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Those spritzer bullets give me gas.

[@brianlee6849]

@@redtobertshateshandles Sounds like a personal problem. 🤣

[@Trumplican]

The 99f in 284 is my uncles unicorn hes wanted one for decades

[@djstl100]

At 3:25 Blows my mind some gun makers milled the sight out of the barrel, imagine the machining work, no cnc machines back then.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're right - a lot of work. These day....no sight at all for many rifles.

[@milehighmagoo]

Hey Mike, if coming across a non numbers matching savage 99 or one that has been refinished, all other things being equal, look to purchase or pass? Generally speaking of course. Price I've been finding them are between $550-$700.

[@johnkendall6962]

The original 1899 I think was only in .303 Savage, a round almost like the 30/30 Winchester but with heavier bullets. My brother in law had a take down 1899 Savage in I think the rarest Savage round the .22 Savage High Power. My nephew now owns it. My father had a 99 in 300 Savage, the safety was on the lever. My father lost the ends of his fingers and couldn't reach the safety so he traded it for another one in .308 that has the safety on the tang. It was passed to me when he died. I was hunting deer with it on Saturday.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi John, Great that you can hunt with your dad's 99 - I find the tang safety altogether more convenient. I still like the 303 Savage though - even if the .308 has more power - something about a 99 in .303 Savage seems right.

[@robertopaulpickett4030]

I inherited my great-grandpa's Savage 99 made in 1927. It shoots 30/30 rounds and it has the brass shell counter on the left side. My grandpa told me that this rifle had knocked down hundreds of deer. It's in working shape and I shoot it every now and then; but you can tell it's been used, the wood was once a golden color and it's now mostly faded. I wonder why this caliber wasn't featured in this video, is it too common to collect?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Robert - The 30-30 is hard to find and one of my favorite calibers in the 99 - and overall. I only have a .243 and a 30-30 left. I guess I didn't have one around at the time of the video. Thanks for writing - your grandpa knew what's what - you have a wonderful rifle.

[@Scrap_Goblin]

I would like to blame you for my purchase of a savage 1899. It's firmly shooter grade but I love it although I don't think the crescent buttplate was intended for someone of my size.

[@u.p.woodtick3296]

I always wanted a mod 99, well balanced, ahead of its time. Please in 300 Savage, what else

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hope you get one. Superb and just as you say - far ahead of its time.

[@lpeter5781]

Interesting fact, Arthur Savage also invented the radial tire, and commitment suicide at 80 years old.

[@mattedwards4533]

The very gun I dreamed about when I was a young man!

[@Oneofthetwelve]

Hi Mike. Always fun to observe you becoming animated with excitement when you present certain rifles.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for the note - pretty exciting stuff if one is interested in guns. I guess I must be. Cheers.

[@ed5042]

I have to ask a huge favor, how does one lubricate the rotary magazine; last round jamming in lower frame before reaching breech face, and the only at home fix I can try apparently is lubricate the magazine.. It is a fair weather hunting rifle,range queen, closet queen. 1921 takedown featherweight 25-3000 ..THANK YOU!!!!

[@tonyhemingway7980]

My son has the model 99 303 cal. that my grandfather had. Grandfather didn't like it because he was left handed and the safety was ethan up for a right handed person. Dad gave him the amount of money that a new Winchester was worth for the Savage. Unfortunately my grandfather died, of pneumonia, before he had a chance to buy one.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tony - your son has a very fine 99 - I like the .303 Savage - especially with the old Winchester-Western 190 grain bullets. The Winchester would have been nice - a special thing to do. Thanks for sharing.

[@jackdundon2261]

I have a 30-30 take down with the brass counter... its my "bug home gun" (take down feature is nice for a back pack). --I have $2000.00 guns, and my SHTF GUN is a 100 year old savage!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jack - That's how ti is with me as well - price and use are pretty separate.

[@jackdundon2261]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns you and I have quite a bit in common, we're both collectors and shooters. (Figure when I retire, I can sell 1 gun a month for 20 years as a "suppliment"). I find myself getting into arguments with guys: they seam to think in a "gun fight", a p365 Taurus or hi point is "good enough", personally, if I EVER draw a gun, I want the most accurate, most reliable gun ever made! I vallue my life a lot, and 50 grand in the bank doesn't do me much good if my wonder 9 short strokes itself. When my wife takes solo road trips, she goes to the safe, reaches past... many high quality hand guns like HK, SIG, Berreta, Colt, and pulls out a EARLY Browning High Power. - she has the best (fastest) natural point and aim of any other gun in the safe. (And thats a lot). And if it's not already in her trunk, she grabs her Benelli M4... "just in case" things turn serious! Again, I vallue her life a lot, if SHTF. Oh, I enjoy your content, a lot..and a few of my guns, I will never use. Some, well, if I wear them out sorry kids! Or, like 2 months ago, opening weekend I took a BEAUTIFUL Browing A bolt medallion in 270 WSM (owned ot for 10 years or so, never used it yet) finally in 2022 it went went to Central Oregon for muke deer hunting. I took a nice 4x4 mule at 540 yards, somewhere along the way, the backpack put a "dent", in the stock. It sucks, but, just adds a memory to me for the rest of my life when I see that dent. - a fun fond memory. Take care bud.

[@jasonsimone3523]

Actually the 284 win is a little more high pressure round than 308 win. The 284 win max pressure is 54,000 cup v/s the 308 win 52,000 cup. So the Savage 99 has a very strong action for a lever gun.

[@148DMC]

New subscriber enjoyed the video can you recommend any magazines on collecting surplus rifles and pistols.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

+148DMC Probably the best is Gun Digest, especially the older editions. Shooters Bible is okay too. And older Outdoor Life and Field & Stream.

[@scottzipperer6146]

If you see it at all you are very lucky if it in excellent shape wood and bluing deep rich it can be worth 3000,00 or more I have 6 99,s 2 are NIB and takedown as well mine are 250-3000, 300,308 that is 75 yr commemorative 22 hi power 30 30 358 Winchester 243 303 and the only one that I scoped was scoped from the factory with 2 power weaver I upgraded to 4x16 x42 vortex and it is perfect but it was NIB so it is tight I love these rifles hope you can find one they are great guns and a step back in time thanks