Savage Model 720
Savage Arms · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1930
Also known as: Savage M720, Savage 720 Humpback
Overview
The Savage Model 720 was a 12-gauge long-recoil semi-automatic shotgun produced by Savage Arms from 1930 to 1949 under license from the John Browning Auto-5 design. It carried the Auto-5's distinctive 'humpback' receiver and friction-ring recoil system, holding five rounds (four in the tube plus one chambered). A short-barreled 'riot gun' form served the US military during World War II, primarily for guard duty and aerial-gunnery training.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3629 g (128.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1270 mm (50.00") |
| Barrel Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Action Type | Long Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tube |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Cross Bolt Safety
- Features: Humpback Receiver, Friction Ring Recoil System, Browning Auto 5 Design, Pistol Grip Stock, Beavertail Forearm
Variants
- Savage Model 720 Riot Gun — Military
- Savage Model 745 — Lightweight
Service history
Operators
- United States Army · adopted 1942
- United States Navy · adopted 1942
- United States Army Air Forces · adopted 1942
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Estimated total produced: 14,527 · Production years: 1930-1949
14,527 units procured by the US government 1942-1945; total commercial production not documented
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: John Browning
Discontinued: 1949
Notes
Because the semi-automatic action left no room for a bayonet lug or heat shield, no true 'trench gun' version existed - only the short-barreled riot gun. Roughly 14,500 units were procured by the US government from 1942 to 1945.
Background
The Model 720 was Savage's licensed production of John Browning's iconic long-recoil 'Humpback' Auto-5, the first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun; about 14,500 served the US military in WWII, mostly guarding home-front sites and training aerial gunners.