This is a fine example of a rare, US Martial "Test" pistol that was manufactured circa 1907-1911 for the U.S. military test trials. During the Philippine Insurrection, the US Army had been equipped with the Colt Model 1894 revolver that fired the anemic Colt 38 revolver cartridge, which did not have enough stopping power to stop the insurgents. Subsequent to that, in early 1904 John Browning was developing a substantially larger and improved cartridge, which resulted into the 45 ACP cartridge. In January 1906 BG Crozier (Chief of Ordnance) issued a letter of invitation to the gun manufacturing industry to develop and submit a new semi-automatic handgun utilizing this new 45 ACP cartridge. Eighteen companies initially responded but only eight actually submitted a test sample pistol, with Savage and Colt being two of the companies. Ultimately this competition resulted in the contract award to Colt for the Model 1907 pistol. The Savage Model 1907 test pistols were issued to the 3rd, 6th and 11th Cavalry units for field tests, with compensative tests being conducted by the Army as well, between 1907 and 1911. In total only 288 Savage .45 caliber automatic pistols were manufactured between 1907 and 1911. At the completion of the 1911 competition all the pistols were sold to the Tryon & Company with most all examples being refinish and remarked, as in this case which is marked with: "SAVAGE ARMS CORP. ./UTICA N.Y. U.S.A." on the left side of the slide, but still retains the "CAL .45" markings on top of the rib. This example still retains the original thin/narrow grip safety that is not integral to the rear of the frame and it has the improved Model 1909 markings of "FIRE" and "SAFE" at the rear of the frame, along with the wider checkered walnut grip panels. It is complete with one all blued magazine that is serial numbered "53" on the rear of magazine, with "129" on the magazine release lever, and "111" on the back of the left grip panel with "134" on the underside of the upper cocking piece.

Fine as factory refurbished with 60% of a light blue/gray patina overall with original, even honest wear from years of handling. The grips are in very good condition with nice checkering on both sides, showing even honest wear across the tops of the checkering mixed with some light handling marks. Mechanically needs work as the hammer will drop after the retracted slide is released. A very nice example of a scarce Model 1907 Savage Arms Co. U.S Army test pistol.