Handsome Restored Savage Model 1903 .22 S L LR 24" Pump Action Rifle
Our Assessment: The Savage Model 1903 is unusual in that it is a pump-action rifle that does not have a tubular magazine. Instead, it uses a detachable box style magazine that would appear at home with a bolt action rifle. By removing the large screw head on the receiver this rifle can be taken down for compact storage or transport, and this also allows easy access to the chamber and bore for cleaning purposes. This an interesting rifle that showcases what Savage did to differentiate their design from other .22 pump-action rifles on the market. The box magazine, tang safety, and hammerless design made it different from the Winchester offerings and still makes it an interesting rifle for C&R collectors. This one looks great and has been restored with a new case colored and blued finish and has been relined so it will be fun to shoot. Please see our photographs and good luck!
Make: Savage
Model: 1903
Serial Number: 69.201
Year of Manufacture: 1906-1922
Caliber: .22 S L LR
Action Type: Pump Action Rifle with Detachable Magazine
Markings: Standard Model 1903 magazines.
Barrel Length: 24"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an aftermarket folding Marbles globe sight with a small bead on the top of the globe and a fine beaded post inside. When flipped down the front sight presents a blade. The rear sight is a Marbles "U" notch sight. The top tang is installed with a folding Marbles aperture peep sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut. The stocks have a grooved forend, round bottom pistol grip, straight comb, perch belly, and crescent metal buttplate. The stocks have been refinished. There are some nicks, dings, and scratches that have colored with age. The LOP measures 13 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Case Colored & Blued
Finish Originality: Restored
Bore Condition: The barrel has been relined. The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion and for the age, the bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. Light handling and storage marks are present. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One 8-round magazine is included.
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA PPT: NO.
RIFLE