One of the better features removed from most post mil 99's was the ability to have a round in the barrel with the firing pin uncocked. I have always liked that feature while carrying a 99 and from a safety stand point made sense. I believe many folks do not even know this feature exists. If we are talking about hunting rifles I just prefer the old style. I own several post mil 99's but after taking a few apart I have sent some down the road. The top tang safety on some seemed to move as much sideways as it did forward and back.
I shot my first elk with a 99E in 300 Savage and for carrying in Colorado it worked great. They all can be tools but they all ain't safe queens. Tom
