Finally got a 99! Also got a question...

[long colt lawrence]

It was an untimely impulse purchase. Good for me! I stopped by a gun shop last saturday (pulling a trailer with a new oil furnace for the house, at least it happened now instead of january) and came across a nice 99C in .308. I've been wanting a 99 for many many years and figured this should be my reward for installing the darn furnace (look at all the money I'm saving right?). You just don't see them much anymore. I sat in the parking  lot thinking about this fine gem and decided to call my dad in Va. so he could tell me what a wise purchase this would be and that he would do the same if he were in my shoes. And thats exactly what he told me (I knew I could count on him!). So I walked back in, guilt free and for 360.00 I left with my new prize! I'm going to shoot it tomorrow.
   Here's my question: The rifle is in nice shape and I've noticed some remnants of clear laquer in the tight places on the reciever. I'm guessing that Savage sprayed the case hardened lever (that was how my Uberties were) and got some on the reciever also? Kinda odd, but to me it says that the gun was used very little. What do you think?

[Ron T.]

Hmmmmmmm........

I've never noticed anything like that on my minty 1953 Model 99 "EG".  Savage used an oil finish on their wood, so whatever else is on the wood besides a common oil finish was put there by someone other than the factory.

If it bothers you, I'd take it off.  But if it isn't all that bad, then leave it alone and save yourself a refinishing job on the wood.

The current "going price" for a Model 99C in .308 caliber in "nice" condition is anywhere from $450-$600... depending almost entirely on "condition", "condition", "condition"!

Enjoy your "new" (old) rifle in good health... it's one of the finest examples of an eastern deer rifle there is... and the .308 caliber is perfect for deer.  It isn't "valued" very much by collectors, but it's just fine as a "hunter"... and you got it at a VERY good price!


Strength & Honor...

Ron T.