Help with pre war model 99 savage

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snazz93

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  • Ive been wanting a model 99 savage in .303 savage for a LONG time. I finally found one at my local gun store, but they want $1050. Its supposedly a pre war, light weight, takedown model f. I know for Sure its a lightweight weight takedown model, 22 inch barrel. The serial number dates it pre war at 1924 (265870,) but the lever boss is stamped k. I was under the influance that the lever boss was only stamped starting in 1949. That would make it a 1959 model. I'm no expert, ive just been very interested in these particular firearms for a long time. Am I missing something? I dont want to spend $1000 on this rifle if its only worth 400. I really appreciate any input, because as I said I'm not an expert, just always been very interested in the model 99.
 
Lever boss isn't a replacement part, it's integral to the receiver. It's possible the k designates the rifle's characteristics.

303 Savage wasn't produced that long, ended in 1929. Look for the serial number on the stock as well.

This took me a while to find info that contradicts the 1949 date for circled letters:

see this thread: https://www.ammoland.com/2012/08/savage-model-99-rifle-in-303-caliber/#axzz5bQz975Xn
 
.303 is definitely prewar, but unless it is absolutely mint with original finish, the price is high- at least in this area. Also, have you looked into ammo availability? If you are interested in it just for play and display, this might be a good one, but shooting it is going to be challenging......

Might I suggest holding out a bit longer for a prewar .30-30 to come along? They are not that rare and ammo is everywhere. Just a thought, good luck in any event- they are great rifles!
IMG_20180502_230036.jpg
 
You might post your question on 24 Hour Campfire. There is a Savage collectors forum there that attracts some real Savage experts.
 
Being a 99 owner/shooter it appears you have done some good research. The serial number and caliber match for the 1924 manufacturing. I don't know if Savage did this but "k" on the lever boss could indicate the rifle having gone back to the factory for some repair/rework (maybe a barrel replacement). David Royal's book doesn't mention this being done.
 
in good condition they bring 500-600 here, if a special rifle more. I had a takedown in .303 that I loaded for and it was fun to shoot with only a little less power than a 30-30. but I think if I were to buy another older 99 savage it would be in 30-30.
 
I took a serious look at my 1927 Model 99 takedown. I found the Model F stamped on the removable forearm and the "K" on the lever boss. Since my serial number is 293xxx, it is date correct and the "K" could have been to identify the barrel as light/medium weight.
 
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