What Model is this 99?

[Blowtorch53]

Guys,

Pictured is my sweet shooting 99 .303.  I have always wanted one of these.  It looks to have been completely redone.  At least I know the stock has so it's not a collector.  The 316XXX SN says it was made in 1928 so I suppose it has been reblued.  It came with the 1.5 x 4 Bushnell Banner in Weaver mounts.  The scope rear lens is a little loose and I suppose it would shoot better if it was replaced.  I got the whole rig for about $325 and I wanted a shooter so it was a great deal for me.  First time out it shot about 1-1/2" at 100 yds. so I have a good one.  The bore is very good and it has a 20" barrel.  Anyone know anything else about it such as the model designation or what does not appear to be original?

Thanks,

Blowtorch

[Rangr44]

IMO, that is a Model 99 Carbine that's been D/T'd for the scope mounts sometime after manufacture, reblued, and with stock refinished.

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[Ron T.]

I tend to agree with Rangr44.

If your rifle has a 20-inch barrel, it is almost certainly an early model "H" Carbine.  This model was introduced in 1923 and discontinued at the end of 1940.

The model "H" in that era had a hand-rubbed varnish finish and, in 1928, a white metal bead was added to the front sight.  The Model H's slender forearm did not have a schnoble tip.  Some models had fruitwood stocks and, unlike most Model 99s, the "H" model Carbine didn't have "flattened pads" on the butt-stock.

In the pictures you posted, they show that your rifle has that slender, non-schnoble forearm and doesn't have flatten "pads" on the butt-stock (just behind the steel receiver). 

A barrel band along with heavier wood was added in 1931.

Your rifle appears to have been refinished and reblued which ruined its "collector's value", but brought out the classic rifle's beauty as point of pride of ownership.

Your rifle is a beautiful example of the "H" model Carbine and a fine, handy little rifle in a classic caliber which is slightly superior to the .30/30 Winchester cartridge... a great little "woods rifle".   


Strength & Honor...

Ron T.

[Blowtorch53]

Ron,

Thanks for the info.

I knew it was a re-do but I don't care.  It shoots great and I wanted a .303 and it was cheap enough.  If I would have bought a collector for $800 or $1,000 I would have worn it out shooting it anyway!  I sold all my collector type stuff a couple of years ago.  I was tired of getting them out of the safe once a year an oiling them.  Hope someone who enjoys collecting has them now and appreciates them.  If they are not for shooting, I don't need them.  I'm going to bag one our Texas Whitetail next season if bullets aren't banned by then!

Blowtorch