Make: Savage Arms

Model: 19 N.R.A. Match Rifle

Serial Number: 34916

Year of Manufacture: Circa early 1930s, C&R

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle, Detachable 5-Round Magazine

Markings:

The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY SAVAGE ARMS CORP. UTICA, N.Y. U.S.A. / PATENTED: NOV. 28, 1905. SEP. 7, 1915. SEP. 4, 1917. NOV. 20, 1917.” followed by “SAVAGE N.R.A. MATCH RIFLE”. The serial number “34916” is marked on the left side of the receiver.

Barrel Length: 25"

Sights / Optics:

The front sight is a Marine Corps-type Patridge blade, dovetailed directly into the barrel. The rear sight is a precision aperture peep sight mounted to the receiver bridge, adjustable for elevation and windage.

Stock Configuration & Condition:

The rifle is mounted in a full-length walnut military-style stock with a semi-pistol grip and straight comb. It has a finger-grooved forend and factory sling swivels front and rear. The stock shows moderate wear from use: small handling marks, scuffs, and scattered compressions, but no cracks or repairs. The finish is an older oil-type that remains even and smooth. The stock rates in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:

The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition:

This rifle retains approximately 90% of its original metal finish. There is thinning to the barrel and receiver, most notably on high edges and the bolt handle. The balance of the finish shows mild plum toning. The screw heads are serviceable with strong slots. Markings are crisp and clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good-plus condition.

Mechanics:

The action functions correctly. However, the safety does not engage properly. The bolt cocks on opening and locks up cleanly. The magazine detaches and feeds properly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:

This rifle includes one original 5-round detachable magazine.

Our Assessment:

The Savage Model 19 N.R.A. Match Rifle is among the most respected American rimfire rifles of the pre-war era, purpose-built for NRA-sponsored training and smallbore competition. Modeled to echo the feel and function of the M1903 Springfield, it offered aspiring marksmen a reliable and accurate platform with military-style handling. With a 25" barrel, detachable magazine, and full-length walnut stock, it was built for both durability and precision. The sight configuration—Marine Corps-style Patridge up front and an adjustable peep at the rear—makes this an ideal rifle for iron sight work at distance.

This example, serial number 34916, is an early-production rifle made before the mechanical changes that appeared in later variants. It features clear factory markings, strong original finish, and a clean, well-preserved stock. The original steel buttplate and intact sling swivels complete its vintage configuration. The finish wear is honest, the bore is excellent, and the rifle appears to have seen careful use rather than neglect.

Most notable, however, is the rifle’s provenance. It once belonged to George Swenson, a prominent gunsmith and the force behind Swingline Rifles, whose name is well known in mid-century precision shooting circles. Swenson’s work helped define match rifle craftsmanship for a generation, and this example’s place in his collection adds undeniable collector value. After changing hands to the current consigner, it now appears at auction for the first time—ready for its next chapter in the hands of a shooter or student of American arms.

This rifle represents a rare blend of performance, history, and provenance. Whether you're an NRA collector, Savage enthusiast, or rimfire marksman, this is a desirable and increasingly hard-to-find piece of American marksmanship heritage.