This lookup estimates when a Savage Model 1895, Model 1899, or Model 99 falls within published serial-number ranges. It is a collector research aid, not a factory letter. Savage rifles were not always completed or shipped in strict serial-number order, so the result should be treated as an informed estimate.
Look Up Your Savage 99
How the Lookup Works
For serial numbers through 1950, the tool compares the entered number with published year-end totals. For 1951–1968, it uses published serial ranges. A lever-boss letter code can provide an additional year indicator for many rifles from 1949 through 1970.
Lever-Boss Date Codes, 1949–1970
On many Model 99 rifles, the code appears on the front of the lever above the serial number. The letter indicates the year; one or two preceding numbers identify an inspector. Savage skipped the letters O and Q.
| Code | Year | Code | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 1949 | M | 1961 |
| B | 1950 | N | 1962 |
| C | 1951 | P | 1963 |
| D | 1952 | R | 1964 |
| E | 1953 | S | 1965 |
| F | 1954 | T | 1966 |
| G | 1955 | U | 1967 |
| H | 1956 | V | 1968 |
| I | 1957 | W | 1969 |
| J | 1958 | X | 1970 |
| K | 1959 | Y | Occasionally seen on 1971 rifles |
| L | 1960 | O/Q | Not used |
Why the Result Is an Estimate
Published dates can represent different manufacturing milestones depending on the era: factory acceptance, shipment, or the point when a receiver was numbered. Rifles were not always finished or shipped in numerical order, and uncommon configurations could remain in inventory longer than popular ones.
Confirming the Model and Date
After using the lookup, compare the result with the barrel address, safety type, magazine design, stock configuration, sights, chambering, and model markings. The supporting Savage 99 guides will separate those identification questions from the date estimate.
Savage 99 Collector Series
Estimate the production period, then continue with the supporting identification, mechanical, caliber, value, and gallery references.
About Greg Cook
Greg Cook writes about firearms collecting, personal history, and the stories behind interesting guns. His Army MOS was 76Y, Unit Armorer, and he brings that practical background to his collector articles.
Sources Consulted
- Vintage Gun Scopes, “Savage Model Ninety-Nine Serialization,” year-end totals and 1951–1968 serial ranges.
- Savage Levers, “Savage Serial Numbers—What the Date Means,” dating limitations and lever-boss code guidance.
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Savage factory-record availability and factory-letter information.
- David Royal, A Collector’s Guide to the Savage 99 Rifle and Its Predecessors, the Model 1895 and 1899.