Book Review: A Collector’s Guide To The Savage 99 Rifle And Its Predecessors, The Model 1895 And 1899

by
posted on March 20, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
savagebook.jpg

During the past 120 years, Savage Arms has produced some memorable and classic guns. The Model 99 is a favorite of many, and this book explores the various models and changes made to a unique lever-action rifle that can boast of having been produced in numbers of more than 1 million units.

It has been 40 years since someone has written a book about the Savage 99 rifle, and David Royal starts by shining some light on the extraordinary life of Arthur Savage, who founded the company in 1894. A remarkable individual, Savage was a force of nature whose biography would be considered a blueprint for the fawning adventure yarns of derring-do that comprised the daydreams of many a youngster during the turn of the past century.

Chief among Savage’s designs and contributions to the product line of his company was the introduction of this unique lever-action rifle, the Model 99. Every nuance and variation of the Model 99 is covered in this well-organized and brightly illustrated book. Tables and clear, well-reproduced photographs walk the reader through the many changes and modifications to the original design that kept the Model 99 evolving and conforming to the desires of the shooters who used them in the field during its 108-year production run.

The collectors circle of these rifles will undoubtedly expand greatly as this must-have reference guide will now give the collector the information needed to make an informed purchase. Price: $60. Contact: Schiffer Publishing; (610) 593-1777; schifferbooks.com.

—Philip Schreier, Senior Curator, NRA Museums

Latest

Christensen Rifles factory floor
Christensen Rifles factory floor

Building Christensen Rifles: A Hands-On View

A cutting-edge enterprise takes on the lightweight-hunting-rifle market with models that defy expectations—all without flinching.

New For 2026: 25 WBY RPM

The 25 WBY RPM is the 17th proprietary cartridge developed by Weatherby, a company whose name is synonymous with magnum cartridges and bullet speed.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 12, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Firearm Industry Philanthropic Efforts Endure, Despite Lagging Gun Sales

Gun sales in 2025 may not eclipse records, but the firearm industry’s generosity continues to abound, even within challenging economic circumstances.

Product : Ten21 Tactical “The Junk Drawer” Tripod Hammock

Precision shooters using tripods to support their rifles can keep miscellaneous gear organized and within reach by attaching The Junk Drawer by Ten21 Tactical to the tripod’s legs.

Review: SAR USA SAR9 SOCOM Compact

The SAR9 SOCOM Compact from SAR USA packs popular tactical features into a compact package.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.