Savage 99 Scope Mount Options

[MacAR]

A couple weeks ago, I picked up an old 99 in 303 Savage and I'd like to scope it to better benefit my failing eyes.
(obligatory rifle photo)

It's drilled and tapped already for Weaver U mounts, and while I've found the rear mount (U15) the front mount (U11) seems to be even more scarce (see my add in classifieds below). And, the U mounts seem to limit a person to smaller scopes (2.5x20, etc) since the rings are one piece. There was also a "Lightfoot" no-drill mount that was once available, but again, none to be had that I can find. So I'm wondering, would I be better off cleaning out the existing holes, filling them with screws, and having the rifle re-tapped for a more common Weaver or Leupold mount? The condition of the rifle is very original, but worn, and it's not exactly a "collector" grade gun. In other words, I aim to keep it for a good long while and therefore I'm not too concerned with resale value at this point. Any ideas? I'm open to just about any suggestion at this point, so please feel free to share!

Mac

 

[MacAR]

Not 10 minutes after posting this, I'll be darned if I haven't come up with a set of U mount rings. Looks like I'll be using them once they get here. However, I'm still interested to see if anyone has any suggestions.

Mac

 

[Hookeye]

The Lightfoot may be built to order as there is some variation. He had one for my '35 EG. Was a couple yrs back and 150 bucks. Worked fine.

Is/was on another forum w a Savage subforum.
I contacted him through there

 

[MacAR]

I contacted him through there

Thanks for that. I reached out to him, only to find out that he's no longer building them. But since I did find the correct u mounts, I went ahead and mounted my old Weaver K2.5. I need to really zero it in, but too hot to shoot right now.

Mac

 

[Ks5shooter]

Picatinny Rail Scope Mounts for Rifles, Shotguns and Pistols (egwguns.com)

Here ya go a picatinny mount,EGW are the best MHO.

 

[MacAR]

Shot the old gal today, and she grouped very well with my hand load of H335 under a Sierra 150 grain SP Spitzer, seated to 2.59" . The lower two shots are the very first as I was adjusting the scope:


Six shots at 50 yards, there are four in group. I am pleased with the accuracy, it ought to be just fine out to 200 yards.

Here's the rifle with the U mounts and weaver k2.5 and todays garden haul:



Thanks to everyone who helped me get it set up!

Mac