Custom Corner

The base rifle was acquired in rough condition for a mere $600.00, providing a practical starting point for a ground-up custom project. According to VanBoxtaele, the goal was to build a clean, mechanically-sound rifle with upgraded stock work and detailing, while retaining the original character and handling qualities that everyone knows and loves about the Savage 99.

Stock work is central to the build. The original stock was replaced with a semi-inlet blank from Wenig Custom Gunstocks , selected for its quality and grain structure. From there, the stock was fully shaped, inletted, and finished by hand. Particular attention was given to maintaining proper geometry for the Model 99 action, including tang fit, lever clearance and to ensure a flawless fit and finish.

Checkering is the defining feature of the rifle and reflects Precision Rifle Checkering’s core specialty. The pattern is a fully hand-cut design, laid out specifically for this project rather than copied from an existing template. Execution required careful spacing, consistent line depth and clean border work across curved surfaces. The pattern density and layout were chosen to balance visual detail with functional grip, rather than purely decorative effect. One of the most challenging aspects of this is the narrow forend of the Model 99. This is partly why a custom pattern was required to help set this rifle a cut above the rest.

Unlike machine-cut checkering, the hand-cut approach allows for sharper points and more precise control of line termination, particularly around borders and intersections. This is evident in the finished stock, where the pattern remains consistent across both grip and forend without overruns or spacing irregularities. The checkering alone on this rifle is a museum-quality work of art.

Metal finishing and engraving were handled separately, with engraving work completed by Derrick Fernelius and Phil Quigly, his mentor, another extraordinary custom rifle maker. The engraving complements the rifle without overwhelming it, maintaining the overall balance and flow between wood and metal. The metal surfaces were refinished and blued to match the upgraded stock work – Ben Piper is to thank for the superb bluing. This results in a quality appearance throughout the rifle where everything meshes together seamlessly.

From a mechanical standpoint, the rifle remains true to the Savage 99 design. The action was inspected and brought back to proper operating condition, ensuring reliable function. The rifle retains its original operating system and lever-action configuration, preserving the handling characteristics that made the Model 99 a standout design.

Sighting equipment consists of a Marbles rear sight paired with the original front sight. This setup keeps the rifle in a practical, usable configuration rather than converting it into a dedicated display piece. The intent was to build a rifle that could be used in the field if desired – and it has been used in the field to harvest meat for the table once already.

Fit and finish throughout the rifle reflect a focus on consistency rather than excess. Wood-to-metal fit is tight and even, with no visible gaps at the tangs or receiver junctions. Edges are cleanly broken without rounding over critical lines, and the overall finish is uniform across all components.

While the craftsmanship is a major component of the project, the rifle’s purpose is equally important. It is being raffled to raise funds for Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), an organization that provides support to the families of officers killed in the line of duty. The July 4th drawing date was selected to align with the broader theme of service and national recognition.

For potential participants, the rifle represents both a functional custom firearm and a one-of-a-kind build tied to a specific cause. It demonstrates what can be achieved starting with a non-collector-grade rifle and applying careful stock work, hand-cut checkering, and coordinated finishing and what amazing craftsmanship can be accomplished when legendary craftsmen work together.

Projects like this highlight the continued relevance of traditional stockmaking and hand craftsmanship in modern custom work. Rather than relying on CNC or pre-cut patterns, this rifle reflects a fully manual approach, where layout, execution and final fit are controlled at each step of the process.

In the end, this Savage 99 is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a testament to traditional craftsmanship, a reflection of personal dedication, and a contribution to a cause that matters. Whether it ends up in the hands of a collector, a shooter, or someone drawn to its story, it will carry that significance forward.

That is what makes this rifle truly unique – not just how it was built, but why.

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If you would like a chance to win this one of a kind rifle please visit: 

concernsofpolicesurvivors.org/1919-rifle-raffle