The Savage model 24 single shot combination rifle was introduced by Savage Arms Company in 1950. This was the only combination rifle and shotgun made in the USA. This would bring a unique twist to the American arms market. This rifle/shotgun firearm would be very popular in the 50’s and 60’s era.
Several European rifle makers did make combination rifles and shotguns and they were very popular in Europe and Africa. They never seemed to develop a significant following in America.
The model 24 that was introduced in 1950 would consist of the 22 long rifle barrel on top and the 410 shotgun the bottom. This would remain the combination for all of the 1950s. By the early 1960sSavage firearms would start producing the model 24 with the 22 Magnum cartridge and this became quite popular at the time. It was a nice 22 Magnum Rifle.
They would develop more cartridges and combinations later on but my focus in these articles is the 1950s and early 60s. The Golden age of classic firearms (IMHO).
It is interesting to note that in 1954 the model 24 would retail for $36.95 and in 1961 would retail for $43.50. Not much of a price difference in the 1950s. Because the 22 long rifle ammo and 410 ammo were quite cheap in the 1950s.The Savage 24 would become very popular and is a great starter rifle/shotgun young hunters and shooters. Check my Savage 340 Rifle page here.
They were a rather sleek looking firearm with classic styling that I considered a pretty good looking combination rifle. They had a nice walnut stock with a blued barrel and a nice case colored receiver. They were a nice lightweight firearm and a joy to carry and hunt with.
SAVAGE 24
The gunsmithing issues that I had with these firearms were primarily the extractors and the firing mechanism. The selector button on the side of the receiver that allowed you to choose which barrel to use would malfunction and eventually break.
By the 1980s the parts for the selector button were no longer available. I would replace the hammer with a new one that would have the selector on it. This would eliminate the selector button.
Because of this the original Savage model 24 with the button on the side are getting harder to find. If you can find the Savage model 24 in excellent condition with the selector button intact they would be given a good rating and a nice addition to your firearms collection.
NOTE: Just added new article on the Classic Elite Firearms of the Late 60s.
