Savage Model 99 DE Citation Grade 243 Win 22” Engraved Lever Rifle 1966 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,750.00
LSB#: WY250402DB035
Make: Savage Arms Corporation
Model: 99DE Citation Grade Monte Carlo (99M)
Serial Number: 1101166
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Caliber: .243 Winchester
Action Type: Lever Action with Rotary Magazine.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “-SAVAGE ARMS- / WESTFIELD, MASS. U.S.A.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “243 WIN.”. The left side of the barrel shank is marked “SAVAGE / MODEL 99M”. The top of the chamber is marked “SP”. The right side of the barrel is marked “HI-PRESSURE STEEL – PROOF TESTED”. The top right side of the chamber is marked “A91”.
Barrel Length: 22” Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to a serrated ramp fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a folding invertible u/square notch sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver has two pairs of drilled, tapped, and filled holes.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are hand skip-line checkered Select American Walnut with capped pistol grip, monte carlo comb, two-sling studs, and Savage serrated steel buttplate. The wood is gorgeous throughout with attractive sharp checkering. The LOP is approximately 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Coin
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. The screwheads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in rates Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Savage Model 99DE Citation Grade in .243 Winchester is a rare and highly collectible lever-action rifle produced between 1965 and 1970. This model features a 22-inch barrel and a Monte Carlo walnut stock, providing a classic aesthetic and comfortable shooting experience. Notably, the 99DE was the first factory-engraved Savage 99 since the 99K in 1940, with intricate scrollwork and a distinctive running whitetail buck engraved on the receiver bottom. Additional features include a gold-plated trigger, jeweled bolt, and Savage’s signature rotary magazine with a round counter. The .243 Winchester chambering offers a flat trajectory and mild recoil, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
