Savage Model 1903 Slide-Action Rifle

by
posted on March 28, 2014
** 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. **
lot2241fcx51rig.jpg

Savage Model 1903 Slide-Action Rifle

Gun: Savage Model 1903 slide-action rifle in .22 S, L or LR rimfire

Condition: 80 percent (NRA Very Good)

Approximate Value: $300-$350

While Savage may not get as much respect from most collectors (except for the Model 99) when compared to the other more famous American trademarks, for the past 11 decades this company has provided a lot of shooters and hunters with reliable firearms at an affordable price. That is still true today. Originally named Savage Repeating Arms Co. when founded in Utica, N.Y. in 1895, its first gun was the Model 1895 center-fire lever-action rifle, which was actually manufactured by Marlin. The company was renamed Savage Arms Co. in 1899, and with its redesigned action, rotary magazine and cocking indicator, the improved Model 1899 quickly became a hit.

With the .22-cal. rimfire cartridge having been developed in 1857, its evolution continued until the powerful .22 LR (Long Rifle) was released in 1887, developed by J. Stevens Arms & Tool Co. Although John M. Browning was the first to realize the potential of the cartridge in his Winchester Model 1890 slide-action .22-cal. rifle, in 1903 Savage decided that it wanted a part of this new exploding market and released the Model 1903. Differing from the Model 1890, it featured a hammerless design, detachable box magazine and an upper tang safety.

As with most of these early 20th century, .22-cal. slide-action rifles that were inexpensively priced when new (typically $10-$15), it is now difficult to find a surviving specimen in superior original condition. Even in 80-percent condition, this particular example, manufactured circa 1907, is probably still in better condition than the vast majority of older slide-action makes/models. Note the wear on the edges of the frame that still retains most of its bright bluing and small areas of scattered rust on the edges of the frame and shiny slide rail. The large slotted screw is for the takedown mechanism. The seven-shot detachable magazine, mounted flush to the front of the trigger guard, has faded and turned a light plum color consistent with the rest of this gun’s overall wear. The bluing on this rifle’s 24" octagon barrel also shows some fading and edge wear, especially where handled when shooting. The uncheckered rounded pistol-grip stock with crescent buttplate and 11-groove fore-end retain most of the original varnish without any major nicks, scratches or dings.

Currently, the Blue Book of Gun Values lists the value range at $300-$350 for a Standard Model 1903 in this condition. If in mint original condition, the price could top $700. This is a good example of a 100-year-old rifle that is still relatively inexpensive, has years of great shooting and enjoyment remaining, and will still retain its value if maintained properly.

-S.P. Fjestad, Author/Publisher Blue Book Of Gun Values

(Originally published December 2006. According to the 33rd Edition of the Blue Book of Gun Values, a Model 1903 Standard Slide Action in 80 percent condition could fetch around $370.)

Latest

Leo Surplus Guns Horman
Leo Surplus Guns Horman

LEO Trade-Ins: The Sleeper Surplus Market

Although much of the budget-priced military surplus market has dried up, there are still affordable options among the long guns and handguns retired from law enforcement service.

Henry Repeating Arms Expands Spirit of the Corps Rifle Series

After much demand, Henry Repeating Arms is back with two attention-getting lever guns in honor of the U.S. Marine Corps and its 250 years safeguarding the globe.

Rifleman Review: Heritage Mfg. Roscoe

In recent years, Heritage Mfg. has expanded its centerfire offerings, and the Roscoe is one of the latest new models, a retro-styled revolver chambered for .38 Special that's capable of dedicated defensive use.

Chiappa Expands Rhino Revolver Lineup

Chiappa Firearms is updating its unique line of Rhino revolvers with several new models, giving consumers an all-new 10 mm Auto chambering, as well as complete stainless-steel construction.

Review: TandemKross Manticore X

In 2024, TandemKross (TK), best known for its high-quality competition upgrades for rimfire platforms, launched the first ever lower-receiver assembly designed for the rimfire Ruger 10/22 platform.

Rifleman Q&A: Surreptitious L.C. Smith

American Rifleman staff recently received the following question about markings on a possible L.C. Smith shotgun. Read what we learned:

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.