savage 99 rifle inquiry

[Jon K]

I am looking for a rifle for deer and don't have alot of money to spend.
I don't mind a used rifle.
I have seen a savage 99 in 308. it had a scope mounted, off center, that would have to be replaced.
But the rifle is definitely used.
Is this something I should look into or should i just put my money into a budget packaged bolt action?
The rifle had some character, I'll say that.

 

[Cosmoline]

Savage 99 collecting is complex and full of pitfalls. Most of the old "rats" out there have been messed with to one extent or another. If you're just after a .308 shooter, you might want to go with a late model 99E. These don't have the counter on the side, don't break down and don't have brass parts inside. They tend to be pretty reasonably priced. I'd advise against getting one with the removeable magazine.

The true collectable 99's and 1899's can run upwards of $600, $1,000 or even $2,000. But that's in mint condition with no reblue and no bubba work. You can often find a hacked-up or reblued 99 that still a perfectly fine shooter for under $400.

 

[rbernie]

They're accurate and fast - great rifles.

Look at the bore carefully, especially the last 4"-6" on the muzzle end. For some reason, the Savage 99 barrels seem to be fairly prone to pitting. Make sure that it's drilled and tapped for a top scope mount. If it's got a tang safety, make sure that it sets properly. Other than that, it's pretty much like any other rifle - if it feels good, seems solid, and is affordable, then buy it.

 

[rangerruck]

yes the 99 have a lot aof charatcter, that youwill lovingly have to take care of for years to come. and i like them! do yourself a favor , get a bolt action sav in a package 308, you will be a lot happier over the long run.

 

[Schleprok62]

Heck, for under $300 you can get a Stevens Model 200 in a .308 short action and probably be happy as a lark in a birdbath in spring... Add a half decent scope and you're good to go...

 

[30-06 lover]

I have a Savage 99-C with detachable magazine. I really like the rifle, but I don't suggest getting one. I got mine from mine dad who bought it new years ago, that is the only reason I have it. The 99 isn't made anymore, so finding parts is a PITA. The gun handles fast, but that is only good for hunting, but when it comes to hunting, you only get the first shot most of the time.

For a first rifle I would get a bolt action. Simple in design, accurate, easy to clean, and very strong. I would get a Rem 700. Parts are easy to get, and upgrades are everywhere, the guns are accurate out of the box, and they cost pretty cheap new. Look into the 700 SPS, it would cost you about what a used 99 would.
-Mike

 

[lawson]

i love my Savage 99. great gun chambered in the wonderful .250-3000 Savage. mine is an open-sighted saddle ring carbine with the round counter. made around the turn of the century, and has been immaculately cared for by the previous owners. it's truly one of the greatest lever action rifles ever made.

however, as a first rifle, probably not the best choice. if you want to scope a rifle, get something else. ammo can sometimes be a pain to find, depending on the caliber (.300 Savage is plentiful, but .250 and .303 can sometimes be tricky to find). parts are hard to find, if something does manage to break. that's never happened to me, and hopefully it won't.