Savage 101 Single Shot Western Style Pistol

[Garnett]

I am considering writing a book on this pistol.  There seems to be even less information available on it as on the M219/220's.  I would appreciate your thoughts as to whether or not such a book would be of interest.  Also, I would appreciate information on any of these pistols that you may have, both written and pictures, that you will allow me to use.  I am hoping that if I publish the first book that much new information will come in, like with my first book on the M219/220's.  Please share your opinion on this subject and information you have.  Many thanks!  Garnett


I have just discovered that there are 3 different style boxes that this pistol came in.  I have two of the boxes.  If anyone has a box different from the two pictured here, please share with me.  You can click on pictures to enlarge for a better view.  Thanks again.  Garnett

[Mike Armstrong]

In my experience the 101 has less collector interest than just about any other Savage firearm.  However, my "experience" is VERY limited--I've handled and shot ONE and that is the sum total, plus reading reviews in gun magazines over the years. 

You might do a search of posted discussions on www.24hourcampfire's "Savage Collectors" forum and see what has been said about the 101 there over the years.  I remember some discussions, but don't expect them to be positive about the 101: these guys are mostly 99 snobs, as are most Savage collectors.  Not too much time for 101s, 23s, 340s, or  even 219/220s!

One interesting thing about the 101 is that it used a cast Zamak frame and perhaps other large parts.  Zamak was becoming popular for low-end firearms and quite a few different models by other manufacturers used it. 

It is an alloy of Zinc, Aluminum, Magnesium, Antimony, and Copper (mostly zinc),  The K in the trademark name comes from the German name for copper, "Kupfer." 

Zamak can't be blued, so it must be painted instead.  And paint can get very unattractive with hard use, as we see with 219/220 alloy trigger guards.

[Garnett]

Mike, Thanks very much for this information!

[Garnett]

I have found the "White" box on Ebay.  I believe it is for much later holsters so I no longer need one or information on it.  I still need any information you may have on the 101 pistol that may be different from the standard gun.  Thanks for any help!

[Garnett]

Work on the book is going very well.  I have completed it with the exception of the final chapter on the accuracy of this pistol.    This chapter will show targets at 25 yards with .22 long rifle, .22 long, and .22 short in standard velocity and .22 shot cartridges at about 6 feet.  That is about as close as I would want to get to a snake!   Again, if you have any information that may be of interest to others that I can use in the book, please contact me. 

[Garnett]

The book has been completed and I have it for sale on EBay and on this forum.  Please contact me if you are inerested.