This is a rare and unique US Military "Test" pistol that was originally manufactured for the U.S. military test trials in 1907-1911. Originally during the Philippine Insurrection, the US Army was equipped with Colt Model 1894 revolvers that fired the anemic Colt 38 revolver cartridge. In January 1906 BG Crozier, (Chief of Ordnance) issued a Letter Of Invitation to the gun manufacturing industry to develop and submit test candidates for a new U.S. Army semiautomatic handgun based on utilizing the new more powerful 45 ACP cartridge, as designed by John Browning in early 1904. Eighteen companies initially responded but only eight actually submitted a test sample pistol, with Savage and Colt being two of the companies. As listed on page 261 of the book "U.S, Military Automatic Pistols 1894-1920" by Scott Meadow, the Savage Model 1907 test pistols were issued to the 3rd, 6th and 11th Cavalry units for field tests, with specific pistols being issued to Troop I, 3rd Calvary, Fort Wingate NM. Ultimately this competition resulted in a contract to Colt for the Model 1907 pistol. In total only 288 Savage .45 caliber automatic pistols were manufactured between 1907 and 1911 and after the 1911 competition a large number of the Savage Test pistols were sold to the Tryon & Company with most all examples being refinish and remarked. This specific pistol is one of those specific examples, as the original factory markings on top of the barrel rib (except for the CAL 45 markings), has been removed, with the left side of the barrel remarked "SAVAGE ARMS CORP. UTICA N.Y. U.S.A.". However this example still retains the original thin/narrow grip safety that is not integral with the rear of the frame, it has the Model 1909 improved marking designs of "FIRE" and "SAFE" at the rear of the frame and the wider checkered walnut grip panels. It is complete with one original blue magazine that has the nickel plated follower and blue floor plate numbered "134" on the back side.

Very fine with 95% plus of the correct retailer refurbished blue finish overall as noted above by the Tryon Corp., with only minor edges and high spot wear. The walnut grips are also very fine with nice matching dark brown color on both sides with distinct checkering on both grip panels, showing minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A very scarce and very desirable example of a rare early U.S. Army Model 1907 Savage Arms test pistol.