Savage 99 for lefty

[clodbuster]

Is there a practical way to convert the righthand only "leverlocking" safety on a savage 99 to make it more user friendly to a lefty?  It is probably the most inconvenient safety for a lefthanded person I've ever come accross.   The particular gun is a model 99E in 308 Win. rotary mag.  ser no. 1027xxx.

[gunnut69]

I have never seen a left hand safety for this rifle.  I would suggest perhaps simply trade the weapon for one of the newer models with the safety mounted on the top tang as many double guns have them.  Makes the 99 an truely useful southpaw weapon.  I even suggest it routinely to folks looking for a reasonably priced rifle for a southpaw.  In the 300 Savage caliber it usually cheap to buy and ammo is available.  If the person handloads 300 Savage ammo will always be available as it quite simple to make from 308 winchester..  and performance of the 300 is indistiguisable from it's 308 counterpart.

[jgrass5]

I  have two mod 99 A's,' 250-3000, and a 308 that have the tang safety. I'm a lefty and have used the 250 since 1971. I went that way for the same reason you mentioned. My father has a 99 F that has the lever saftey. The rifle was given to me but to use it in the field is awkward at best and potentialy dangerous.

Go with the tang safety model, they are a great value, maybe not as collectable, but they shoot great. I've taken quite a few deer with both the 250 and 308 which never required a follow up shot with either. They both have peep sights. I've never had to shoot beyond 75 yards.

Good luck, Jerry