Wonder if unionization had anything to do with it. Going from being paid per part made that passed QA, to being paid hourly? And probably more high quality jobs that pulled skilled workers away, or at least raised their salaries to a level that made hand made items unaffordable.

“The Savage 99 Pocket Reference”.
All models and variations of 1895’s, 1899’s and 99’s covered.
Also dates, checkering, engraving.. Find at www.savagelevers.com