I've had a few 99's over the years . The last one was , like yours , a 99C . It was a reliable and surprisingly accurate ( MOA with some loads ) rifle . The only reason I don't have it anymore is it went to a younger family member who needed a good hunting rig . I put a Leopold 2 to 7 power on it . I found it to be near perfect for my needs . I like a low power for still hunting in the timber and the 7X was powerful enough for shooting out to my limits , the rifle was capable of shooting further , I'm the limiting factor lol .
There are a number of compact variables out there if weight or size is a concern . I also have a couple of Leopold M8 4X that I've got mounted on a few mid-range rifles , a 358 Win and a 9.3X57 . I have no complaints with them either . All in all though , a GOOD variable will give you more versatility .
As to spare mags , hit the gunshows and brace yourself , they're getting kinda spendy these days . They're out there , but you're going to have to look . Maybe post a WTB add on the EE .
Good luck , you have a classic old hunting rifle that'll do anything you need , I know I miss mine .
