Offered here is a rare Research & Development Prototype Savage Model 99CD rifle, serial number RD278, as manufactured in 1974. This exact prototype rifle is pictured on page 104 of the book "A Collector's Guide to the Savage 99 Rifle" (2016) by David Royal above a photo caption that states, "A Savage 99CD. This is a prototype that was kept at the factory until 1981. It is in caliber 250 and the serial number is RD275. The author bought it from Dick Johnson in 2014." The included Savage factory letter, dated April 9, 2014 and addressed from John T. Callahan, states in relation to this rifle by serial number, "The records show that your rifle was manufactured in caliber .250-3000 Savage. The record shows it was created and retained in the Research & Development section of our engineering department in 1974. Another note shows it was used as a show sample. This rifle is likely the prototype Model 99-CD which was first in the 1975 catalog. It was ultimately sold on January 19, 1981 to Nick Rosselli who was a local gunsmith and dealer here in Westfield, MA." The caliber marking ".250-3000 SAVAGE" is marked on the upper left of the barrel, with a ramped beaded blade front sight, Williams adjustable notch rear sight, safety mounted on top of the receiver along with a loaded chamber indicator, magazine release button on the right of the receiver, with "SS" in an oval above serial number "RD 278" on the left of the receiver, a checkered walnut forearm and a checkered Monte Carlo pistol grip buttstock with rubber recoil pad. Provenance: Nick Rosselli; The Dick Johnson Collection; The David Royal Collection

Excellent, retains 99% original blue finish and 97% original case colors on the lever with some minor surface freckling. Four empty small drilled and tapped holes on top of the receiver where previous sights once resided. Wood is very fine with defined edges, a few light scratches and handling marks, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.