Question on M1899 Savage

[deadin]

I have run across an early octogan barreled M1899 Savage in .303 Sav. There is a lengthwise groove in the top of the receiver ring. (Kind of like the sighting groove on the topstrap of some older pistols)
My question is: Is this original or has somebody been busy with a file.?

Dean

[Mike Irwin]

I don't recall ever seeing a 99 with such a groove, and I can't imagine how one might be necessary for use with tangent sights.

My best guess, without seeing it or doing any more research tonight, is that it's NOT original.