Savage Arms
Savage Arms is an American firearms manufacturer founded in 1894 by Arthur Savage in Utica, New York, specializing in innovative rifles for hunting, target shooting, and military applications.[1][2] The company pioneered designs such as the hammerless, striker-fired lever-action rifle in the 1890s and the Model 99, which featured an internal hammer and rotary magazine, establishing its reputation for reliable, purpose-built firearms.[1][2] Throughout its history, Savage Arms expanded through acquisitions like J. Stevens Arms in 1920 and A.H. Fox in 1930, becoming one of the largest U.S. firearms producers, and significantly contributed to wartime efforts by manufacturing over 1.4 million Thompson submachine guns and 1.2 million Lee-Enfield rifles during World War II.[2][1] After consolidating operations in Westfield, Massachusetts, by 1960, the company faced financial challenges leading to bankruptcy in 1988 but reemerged under private ownership in 1995, focusing on bolt-action rifles like the Model 110 series.[3][2] Key innovations include the AccuTrigger adjustable safety trigger introduced in 2003, enhancing shooter control and accuracy, and the AccuStock modular chassis system for improved stability.[1] In the modern era, Savage Arms operates as a privately held company following its 2019 acquisition by a management-led investment group from Vista Outdoor, employing over 600 workers in Westfield and producing affordable, high-precision rifles such as the Axis youth models and precision target variants, emphasizing rapid customization and manufacturing efficiency.[3][2] While celebrated for value-driven performance, the firm has encountered legal scrutiny over isolated product liability claims, including allegations of unintended discharges in certain models, though such incidents represent exceptions amid broad market acceptance.[4][5]