Make: Savage
Model: 99F Featherweight
Serial Number: 265650, (matching buttplate, butt, and forend)
Year of Manufacture: 1924 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .250-3000 Savage
Action Type: Lever action, rotary magazine
Barrel Length: 24" (the barrel is a 1947-1960 era replacement)
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into a serrated a base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight has been removed and a dovetail blank has been inserted. The receiver has a pair of non-factory taps for mounting an optic, though none is present. There are also a set of taps on the receiver for mounting an aperture sight, which also is not present.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is two piece wood with a checkered semi pistol grip, straight comb, checkered schnabel forend, and a serrated metal buttplate. The buttplate shows moderate handling wear. The furniture shows scattered pressure dings and surface scratches. There is a chip at the toe. A small compass is set into the right side of the stock. The compass still somewhat functions if you shake it some. The LOP measures 12.75" from the face of the trigger to the butt. The furniture rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Nonoriginal, the receiver is refinished and the barrel is a replacement
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with stubborn copper fouling. There are some light spots of pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 60% of its nonoriginal metal finish. The finish shows edge wear, scratches, and thinning with patina on the barrel. The screw heads range from unmarred to lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The markings are mostly clear and complete. Overall, this firearm rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This custom Savage Model 99F Takedown was originally manufactured in 1924 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic rifle. Produced by Savage Arms, the Model 99 is one of the most innovative lever-action rifles ever designed, featuring a hammerless action and rotary magazine capable of safely using pointed bullets. The takedown configuration made the rifle especially convenient for transport, and the Model 99F remains a desirable variation among Savage collectors. This example has been modified from its original configuration over the course of its service life.
Chambered in .250-3000 Savage with a 24 inch barrel, this rifle is fitted with a replacement barrel bearing the Chicopee Falls address, indicating production between approximately 1947 and 1960 rather than the original 1924 manufacture date of the receiver. The .250-3000 Savage was the first commercial cartridge to achieve a published velocity of 3,000 feet per second and remains an important milestone in cartridge development. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6 out of 10, showing moderate wear consistent with use. The action functions correctly.
The furniture rates in Very Good condition with honest handling wear and solid structure. This firearm retains approximately 60% of its nonoriginal metal finish, reflecting its refinished condition and years of field use. Overall, this firearm rates in Good condition and stands as an interesting custom Savage Model 99F takedown rifle featuring a later Chicopee Falls replacement barrel in the classic .250-3000 Savage chambering. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
