Savage Model 99H V3-3 .30-30 Winchester 20″ Lever Action Rifle MFD 1938 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,230.00
LSB#: LSB260120RS108
Make: Savage Arms
Model: 99H V3-3
Serial Number: 379507
Year of Manufacture: 1938
Caliber: .30-30 Winchester
Action Type: Lever Action, Internal Rotary Magazine.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “SAVAGE ARMS CORPORATION / UTICA, N.Y. – MADE IN U.S.A.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “.30-30”, along with a circled “SP” proof mark. The right side of the barrel is marked “HI-PRESSURE STEEL – PROOF TESTED”. The top of the receiver is marked “SAVAGE / MODEL 99”. The buttplate is marked “SVG”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The serial numbers on the buttstock and buttplate match the serial number on the receiver. The forend does not show a serial number.
Barrel Length: 20″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn U-notch sight on a riser, dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is drilled and tapped for the addition of a peep sight. The bead on the front sight is bent.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth walnut stock set, with a straight grip, straight comb, serrated steel buttplate, and a smooth banded forend. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show moderate wear, with scattered scratches, dings, and compressions throughout. The stock’s finish has darkened and worn with age. The stocks fit tightly to the frame, with no play. There are no structurally compromising chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Fair to Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 4rd internal rotary magazine, with functional brass cartridge counter.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some minor fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 60% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows moderate wear through oxidation, patina, and thinning finish throughout the majority of the metal surfaces. The case color on the lever/trigger guard is mostly intact, but starting to fade. There is operational wear on the bolt. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are tooled, but retain strong and serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Fair to Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Manufactured in 1938 at Savage’s Utica plant, this Model 99H V3-3 represents a lightweight, carbine-length variation of the iconic Model 99 line. Chambered in .30-30 Winchester, one of America’s most enduring sporting cartridges since its 1895 introduction, the 99H combined compact handling with Savage’s innovative internal rotary magazine and brass cartridge counter. Unlike traditional tube-fed lever guns, the 99’s rotary system allowed the use of spitzer-style bullets and helped cement its reputation as one of the most advanced sporting rifles of its era. The 20 inch barrel and straight grip walnut stock give this rifle the lively, quick-pointing character that defined the pre-war 99 carbines.
This example retains approximately 60 percent of its original metal finish, with honest thinning, oxidation, and patina throughout, while the case color on the lever remains visible though beginning to fade. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 9.75 out of 10, and the rotary magazine with brass cartridge counter functions as intended. The walnut stocks show moderate age-related wear and darkening, yet remain tight to the frame with no structural cracks. The matching serial numbers on the buttstock and buttplate reinforce its originality, and the action cycles correctly. This is a well-preserved pre-war Savage 99H that carries the character and balance of a true Depression-era deer rifle. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.