Savage 99 barrel question

[Porky Pine]

I just bought a Savage 99 chambered in 303 Savage. In excelllent shape, tight all the way around. Barrel 1/2 octogon-1/2 round, Receiver S/N is a bit worn but easily readable - 19.XXX, which should be a 1902 manufacture but on the top flat the barrel markings read, "Manufactured By Savage Arms Company Utica NY USA, Pat-Feb 7, 1893, July 25, 1893, Oct 3, 1899, May 25, 1909, June 1, 1909"
On the side flat "Savage Hi-Pressure Steel, Model 1899"
On the top flat next to the receiver "SAV.303"
On the bottom flat under the Snable forearm the letter "K" and on the same flat next to the receiver the number "3"
I've had folks suggest a rebarrel job or a fluke in the Savage factory where an older receiver was reworked and shipped after 1909. I'm looking for any feedback I can get. Thanks to all for taking the time.

 

[rcmodel]

It could be they had a big old crate full of serial numbered receivers setting around in 1902 inventory, and didn't get around to putting the barrel on it until 1909?

I don't know much about Savage, but it is common to find old Winchester lever-actions and .22 pumps with serial numbers much earlier then the actual manufacture date on the bottom of the barrel flat.

They didn't stamp the date of assembly on the barrel until they actually put it on a serial numbered receiver made earlier.

rc