Thoughts on the Savage Model 99 .308 for Hunting?

Hunting
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Introduction

I’ve been looking into the Savage Model 99 in .308 caliber and am curious about its practicality for hunting. Given its legacy and reputation, it seems to be a solid choice, but I’d love to hear from others who have experience with it.

Design and Features

The Savage Model 99 has a unique design that stands out among other rifles, especially with its rotary magazine.

  • Caliber: .308 offers a good balance of power and recoil.
  • Weight: It’s relatively lightweight compared to others, making it easier for long treks.
  • Action: Lever action could be beneficial for quick follow-up shots.

Performance in the Field

Can anyone share their experiences regarding the accuracy and reliability of the Model 99 in the field? How well does it handle different types of ammunition? I’m particularly interested in:

  • Preferred loads for deer hunting.
  • Recommendations for optics that pair well with this rifle.

Historical Significance

I’ve read about its history and was intrigued by its role in various hunting narratives. How does the nostalgia factor into your choice of this rifle?

Final Thoughts

I’m eager to make an informed decision before going out this season. Any insights, reviews, or personal anecdotes would be greatly appreciated! Let’s discuss!

Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences and advice on this outstanding piece of history and functionality!

5 Likes
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I’ve been using the Savage Model 99 in .308 for several seasons now, and I can say it’s very accurate. I got a deer last season at about 300 yards without any issues.

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That’s impressive! I’ve heard this model is known for its reliability at long ranges. How does it handle recoil?

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Recoil is manageable, especially if you’re used to shooting rifles. The .308 caliber is a great balance of power and control. It’s not bad at all.

5

I love the classic look of the Savage 99! It feels great in hand and is a solid rifle for hunting. Definitely my go-to for deer season.

3 Likes
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That’s good to hear! Any thoughts on how it compares to more modern rifles?

7

It’s hard to compare apples to oranges, but the Savage Model 99 has a certain charm that modern rifles lack. Plus, its accuracy is solid; it can keep up with newer models for sure.

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I’ve done some side-by-side tests with my friends, and the Model 99 holds its own against other rifles. It has a smooth action and you can feel the quality.

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Do you guys think the .308 is the best caliber for the Savage 99? I’ve heard mixed opinions about it versus other calibers.

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I think .308 is one of the best choices for versatility. It’s effective for both deer and larger game. Though I still love a good .30-30 for close shots!

2 Likes
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[quote=“wardelizabeth, post:9, topic:2159”]Though I still love a good .30-30 for close shots![ /quote]I can relate! But the precision of the .308 is hard to beat for longer distances.

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I’d say the Savage Model 99 is a keeper for any hunter. Just make sure to keep it well-maintained, and it’ll serve you well for years.

3 Likes
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Good advice! Maintenance can definitely affect accuracy. Anyone have tips on what to prioritize?

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A good cleaning can go a long way! I like to clean my rifle after each hunt—prevents any buildup that could affect my next trip.

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The Savage Model 99 .308 is a classic! For maintenance, I recommend cleaning your rifle after every outing. A good bore solvent and a soft brush work wonders to remove fouling.

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Absolutely! Don’t forget to oil the moving parts lightly after cleaning to prevent rust. A little goes a long way.

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Good call on the oiling, cbrock! Regularly check the wood and metal for nicks. A small touch-up can preserve its aesthetic and functionality for years.

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I always wipe down my rifle before storage. Keeps the finish looking sharp and avoids potential corrosion. It’s a quick habit to get into.

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Great tip! For those who hunt in wetter conditions, consider a rust preventative product. It can make a big difference!

1 Like
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To sum it up, cleaning and maintenance should be routine. These guns are reliable, but neglecting them can lead to issues down the line.