Savage 1899 Mirror Bore 22″ Cal. .30-30 Short Rifle

Manufactured: 1902 – Caliber: .30-30 – 22" Octagon Mirror Bore Barrel, Tang Sight

This elegant Savage Model 1899 Short Rifle, an early production example chambered in the desirable .30-30 caliber, features a 22-inch octagonal barrel, a configuration particularly sought after by collectors of antique American sporting arms. Its largely preserved original blue finish further enhances the appeal of this collectible rifle.

History

Designed by Arthur W. Savage, the Savage Model 1899 ranks among the most innovative lever-action rifles in American firearms history. Its rotary magazine allows the use of pointed bullets, providing a significant technical advantage over the tubular-magazine rifles of the same era. Produced in a wide variety of calibers, it quickly became a favorite among North American hunters before being renamed the Model 99 during the 1920s. Today, short-barreled versions are especially appreciated by collectors for their distinctive configuration and historical significance.

Our Example

Featuring its octagonal barrel and a largely preserved original blue finish, this Savage Model 1899 Short Rifle remains in excellent overall condition. The lever retains a beautiful amount of its original case coloring. The markings are correct for the model and remain deeply struck, including the “.30-30” caliber designation on the barrel. Serial number 20XXX corresponds to an early 1902 production rifle. The original wood furniture displays an attractive, even patina and remains in excellent condition, showing only light handling marks consistent with age. Two small traces indicate the former presence of sling swivels. The correct steel buttplate remains perfectly fitted to the stock.

Mechanically, this rifle functions exceptionally well, with smooth operation and positive ejection. The 22-inch octagonal barrel in .30-30 caliber features a mirror-bright bore, with strong, well-defined rifling throughout. This Short Rifle is also equipped with a desirable tang sight, mounted on the upper tang behind the receiver, a feature particularly appreciated by collectors.

With its early production date, octagonal barrel, original finish, and tang sight, this Savage Model 1899 represents a highly desirable addition to any collection of antique American sporting rifles.

The rifle is accompanied by its official Category D(e) classification certificate, issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House (Banc National d'Épreuve).