Savage Arms

Historical Foundations and Early Innovations

Savage Arms was established in 1894 by inventor Arthur Savage in Utica, New York, quickly growing to manufacture rifles, handguns, and ammunition. The company's first major innovation was the Model 1895, the first hammerless lever-action rifle, which won a contract with the New York National Guard before its cancellation. Savage also competed fiercely in the early 20th century military market, becoming a finalist in the US Army trials for a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol before losing to what would become the Colt M1911. The company marketed a series of .32 and .380 caliber pocket pistols, the Models 1907, 1915, and 1917, based on the patents from that military prototype. During the First World War, the company merged with Driggs-Seabury Ordnance and shifted production to Lewis machine guns at a plant in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and also produced Model 1899 muskets for the Montreal Home Guard.

The interwar period was a time of significant product development and corporate growth for Savage. In 1920, the company restarted production of its lever-action as the Model 99 and introduced the new .300 Savage cartridge, designed to fit the Model 99's magazine. That same year, Savage acquired Stevens Arms of Chicopee, Massachusetts, and purchased former government buildings in Utica to expand its manufacturing footprint. Further expansion came in 1929 with the purchase of the A.H. Fox Gun company of Philadelphia, with production moved to Utica. A major product success arrived in 1939 with the introduction of the Model 24 combination gun, an over-and-under rifle-shotgun that would eventually sell over one million copies. Savage became one of the few American makers of affordable double-barrel shotguns, producing the Fox Sterlingworth, Fox Model B, and Stevens Model 311, and also manufactured firearms under house brand names for large store chains.

Wartime Production and Post-War Challenges

During the Second World War, Savage became a vital contributor to the Allied arsenal, pivoting to large-scale military production. The company manufactured most of the Thompson submachine guns used during the conflict and also produced the British No. 4 Lee-Enfield bolt-action rifle under the Lend-Lease program, though these rifles were marked 'U.S. PROPERTY' they were sent to Britain and other allies. Due to wartime material shortages, particularly of quality wood reserved for military stocks, Savage experimented with synthetic stocks, producing some Model 24 combination guns and Model 94 single barrel shotguns with stocks molded from Tenite plastic. This period demonstrated the company's industrial flexibility and capacity to meet substantial government contracts, a capability that would define its operations during the mid-20th century.

The post-war era saw Savage return to civilian firearm production with new models like the model 67 and model 69 pump shotguns, including the model 69N stainless steel tactical pump shotgun. However, the latter half of the century brought ownership changes and financial instability. The company was run by a variety of owners from the 1960s through the 1980s before encountering severe financial trouble, leading to a bankruptcy protection filing in 1988. During this period, Savage's diversification efforts included selling power lawn mowers alongside its firearms. The company's survival through this turbulent time set the stage for a technological revival in the new millennium, driven by a focus on precision and user-adjustable features that would redefine its product line.

Modern Revival and Key Innovations

The 21st century marked a period of significant change for Savage Arms, defined by groundbreaking product features and corporate changes. In 2002, the company introduced the AccuTrigger, a factory-installed, safe, user-adjustable trigger system that became a standard feature on its rifles. This was followed in 2009 by the AccuStock, an aluminum stock embedded rail system designed to enhance action stability and accuracy. These innovations were widely recognized, with Savage being named Manufacturer of the Year by the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence in 2003, and the Savage 93R17 BTVS winning 'Best New Rifle' in 2007. Corporate ownership shifted in May 2013 when Alliant Techsystems (ATK), the predecessor of Vista Outdoor, purchased Savage for $315 million, with Al Kasper beginning his tenure as CEO following the sale.

Under Vista Outdoor, Savage continued to develop new product lines, but by July 2018, the parent company announced plans to sell the firearms maker as part of a larger restructuring. Vista Outdoor cited the high cost of expanding into handguns and noted that Savage constituted only 7% of its overall business, with 367 workers at its Westfield, Massachusetts factory at that time. The sale was completed on July 9, 2019, with Savage's management leading an investor group to acquire Savage Arms and Stevens Arms for $170 million, with Vista receiving $158 million in immediate proceeds and a $12 million note. This return to independence was followed by the appointment of Chris Bezzina as CEO in 2023, and then on October 21, 2026, Smith & Wesson purchased Savage in a stock and cash deal valued at $160 million, bringing the historic brand under new ownership.

The Canadian Connection: Lakefield Operations

Savage Arms maintains a vital and growing manufacturing presence in Canada at its facility in Lakefield, Ontario, just north of Peterborough. This plant is central to the company's rimfire rifle production, notably manufacturing the popular semi-automatic Model 64 .22 LR rifle, which operates on a simple blowback action and is available in a true left-handed version. As of 2026, the Lakefield facility employs nearly 150 people and has an output of approximately 1,600 rifles per day. The site celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019, highlighting its long-standing role in the local and national economy. The operation is a significant point for Canadian shooters, as it produces firearms designed and built specifically for the North American market.

In 2026, Savage Arms Canada announced a major expansion plan for the Lakefield facility, involving a manufacturing investment of $3,346,206. This investment aims to introduce two new product lines: lever-action rimfire rifles and centrefire hunting rifles. The provincial government of Ontario supported this growth through the Regional Development Program’s Eastern Ontario Development Fund, providing $504,631 in funding, as announced by Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith. The expansion is projected to create 49 new jobs in the Selwyn Township area, a substantial economic boost for a community of about 3,500 people. Terry McCullough, vice-president and general manager of Savage Arms Canada, stated the funding helps realize the company's vision to be the most widely used firearms in the world and allows it to give back through job creation.

Product Lines and Firearm Families

Savage Arms manufactures a variety of rimfire and centre fire rifles, as well as handguns and Stevens single-shot rifles and shotguns. The company is best known for the Model 99 lever-action rifle and the .300 Savage cartridge. Many Savage firearms incorporate its signature AccuTrigger system, introduced in 2002, and the AccuStock system, introduced in 2009. Its product portfolio includes bolt-action rifles like the Model 110, rimfire rifles like the Model 64 and A Series, and shotguns like the Stevens S1200 and the Savage Renegauge.

• Model 110 Bolt-Action Rifles: Designed by Nicholas L. Brewer in 1958 and patented in 1963, this is America's oldest continuously manufactured bolt-action rifle. The 2026 SHOT Show saw a major update to the line, featuring 16 purpose-built models with improved manufacturing processes for the receiver. Variants include the 110 Tactical, chambered in calibres like .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor, and the Lightweight Hunter, which weighs only 5.65 pounds.
• A Series Rimfire Rifles: A family of semi-automatic rifles including the A17 (.17 HMR), which was named Rifle of the Year in the 2016 Golden Bullseye Awards, the A22 (.22 LR), and the A22 Magnum (.22 WMR). These use a unique delayed blowback system and 10-round rotary magazines, with the A17 designed specifically around the .17 HMR cartridge.
• B Series Rimfire Rifles: Introduced in 2017 as a modern bolt-action family chambered in .17 HMR, .22 LR, and .22 WMR, sharing magazines with the A Series and replacing the older Mark II series.
• Stevens Shotguns: Includes models like the S1200 inertia-driven semi-automatic weighing 6.8 pounds, and the bolt-action 212 (12-gauge) and 220 (20-gauge) slug guns designed for accuracy up to 200 yards, with variants for turkey hunting released in 2019.
• Handguns: The company produces handguns such as the Stance XR, which has a Glock-sight-compatible front tenon, and its own line of Model 1911 pistols, which were released in 2023.
• Combination Guns: Continuing the legacy of the Model 24, the Model 42 Takedown is an over-and-under gun with 20-inch barrels, a .22 LR or .22 WMR rifle barrel over a .410 bore shotgun chambered for 3-inch shells.
• Specialized Centrefire Models: These include the Model 112 Magnum Target single-shot in .338 Lapua Magnum, the Hog Hunter variant for wild boar, and the Long Range Hunter available in calibres like .338 Lapua Magnum and 6.5 Creedmoor.

Beyond these families, Savage produces numerous specialized variants for varmint hunting, long-range precision, and tactical applications. The BA Stealth chassis rifle was named one of American Hunter's 'Top New Rifles' for 2016. The company's method of creating purpose-built models for specific cartridges, like the A17 for .17 HMR, and its commitment to offering left-handed versions on many rifles, are key aspects of its product design philosophy. This diverse product lineup ensures Savage has a firearm suited for nearly every shooting discipline and hunting scenario, from the single-shot Rascal .22 LR trainer to the heavy .375 Ruger chambered Model 116.

Corporate Timeline and Ownership Changes

Savage Arms was a subsidiary of Vista Outdoor until 2019 when it was spun off. Vista Outdoor's predecessor, ATK, announced the purchase of Savage for $315 million on May 13, 2013. On July 9, 2019, Vista Outdoor completed the sale of Savage Arms and Stevens Arms for $170 million to a group of investors led by Savage's management. Smith and Wesson purchased Savage in a stock and cash deal valued at $160 million on October 21, 2026.

Following its independence after the 2019 spin-off, Savage operated under its own management until the 2026 acquisition by industry giant Smith & Wesson. This merger created a larger combined entity within the competitive firearms market. Throughout these changes, Savage's core identity, centred on accurate, value-oriented firearms, remained constant. The company's ability to innovate with products like the AccuTrigger and to maintain crucial manufacturing operations in both the United States and Canada has ensured its enduring appeal to generations of shooters. The 2026 product line refresh across multiple platforms, announced at the SHOT Show, signals a continued commitment to innovation under its new corporate structure.

Notable Models and Technical Specifications

Several Savage models stand out for their design, longevity, or specific technical achievements. The Model 110 series, beyond its historical continuity, includes variants like the Predator Hunter Max 1 with a fluted carbon steel barrel and camouflage stock, chambered in cartridges from .204 Ruger to .308 Winchester. The Model 10FP and 110FP are part of the Law Enforcement Series, configured with heavy free-floating barrels and available in short and long actions for calibres like .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. For shotguns, the Savage Renegauge, released in 2020 for turkey hunting, uses a Dual Regulating Inline Valve to reduce recoil, weighs 8 pounds, and had a suggested price of $1,550. The Stevens 560 Field 12-gauge semi-automatic hunting shotgun was released in 2023, adding to the company's shotgun offerings.

The technical specifications of Savage firearms often highlight a focus on accuracy and user customization. The AccuTrigger system, a defining feature, allows the trigger pull weight to be adjusted by the shooter, with the Target AccuTrigger variant adjustable down to a pull as low as six ounces. The AccuFit system, introduced on models like the 110 Tactical, allows shooters to customize the comb height and length-of-pull for better fit. The company's delayed blowback system used in the A17 and A22 Magnum rimfire rifles was specifically engineered to safely handle more powerful small calibre rimfire ammunition. Many models, such as the Hog Hunter, come standard with iron sights, while receivers are typically drilled and tapped for scope mounting, demonstrating a blend of traditional and modern features.

Specific model details further illustrate Savage's engineering approach. The Model 112 Magnum Target rifle is a single-shot bolt-action chambered for .338 Lapua Magnum, built on a Magnum Target Action with a pillar-bedded 26-inch heavy barrel and weighing 12 pounds. The Lightweight Hunter achieves its 5.65-pound weight through a light-contour 20-inch barrel, a spiral-fluted bolt, machining cuts in the receiver and stock, and a polymer-bottom magazine. The Model 116 has variants for .338 Winchester and .375 Ruger, featuring a 20-inch stainless steel barrel, adjustable LPA open sights, and an oversized bolt handle for use with gloves. These detailed specifications across the product line show a commitment to meeting specific user needs for weight, calibre, and shooting application.

Questions about Savage Arms

Where are Savage rifles made in Canada?

Savage Arms manufactures rifles at its facility in Lakefield, Ontario, located just north of Peterborough. This plant is a major production centre, notably for rimfire rifles like the semi-automatic Model 64. As of 2026, the Lakefield facility employs nearly 150 people and produces approximately 1,600 rifles daily. The company is investing over $3.3 million to expand this operation, which will introduce new lever-action rimfire and centrefire hunting rifle lines and create 49 new jobs.

Who owns Savage Arms?

As of October 2026, Savage Arms is owned by Smith & Wesson, following a stock and cash acquisition valued at $160 million. Prior to this, Savage was an independent company after being spun off from Vista Outdoor in 2019. Vista Outdoor (and its predecessor ATK) had owned Savage since a $315 million purchase in 2013. The company is led by CEO Chris Bezzina, who was appointed in 2023.

What is the AccuTrigger?

The AccuTrigger is a patented, user-adjustable trigger system introduced by Savage Arms in 2002. It is a factory-installed feature that allows shooters to safely customize the trigger pull weight to their preference. The system includes a safety blade within the trigger that must be fully depressed before the trigger can move rearward to fire, preventing accidental discharges. This innovation has been a key feature for Savage rifles, contributing to their reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy and has been widely incorporated across their rimfire and centrefire product lines.

What is Savage's most famous rifle?

Savage's most famous and historically significant rifle is the Model 99 lever-action, along with its predecessor, the Model 1899. Introduced in the early 20th century, it was the first hammerless lever-action rifle and remained in production for decades. The rifle is closely associated with the .300 Savage cartridge, which Savage also introduced. While no longer in production, the Model 99 is well-regarded among hunters and collectors. In the modern era, the Model 110 bolt-action rifle, first designed in 1958, is known as America's oldest continuously manufactured bolt-action and received a major update in 2026.

Does Savage make shotguns and handguns?

Yes, Savage Arms manufactures both shotguns and handguns alongside its extensive rifle lineup. Its shotgun offerings include the Stevens-branded S1200 semi-automatic and the bolt-action 212 (12-gauge) and 220 (20-gauge) slug guns designed for firing slugs. In 2020, Savage released the higher-end Renegauge semi-automatic shotgun for turkey hunting. For handguns, the company produces the Stance XR and its own series of Model 1911 pistols, which were launched in 2023. This diverse product range ensures Savage caters to a wide spectrum of shooting sports and hunting activities.

What happened to Savage Arms in 2026?

The year 2026 was significant for Savage Arms with two major developments. First, the company was acquired by Smith & Wesson in a deal valued at $160 million, moving the brand under new corporate ownership. Second, Savage announced a comprehensive update to its entire rifle lineup at the SHOT Show trade event, signalling a major product refresh. This included the launch of the 'Next Generation' Model 110 series, featuring 16 new models with improved manufacturing processes for smoother operation.

Sources and further reading

• Savage Arms (Wikipedia)
• Savage Arms | Firearms, Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns (savagearms.com)
• Rifle maker Savage Arms aims for 49 new jobs in ... (globalnews.ca)

Checked by the Yadude Books desk. Last updated 2026-10-26.