Just wanted to introduce myself as an excited new owner of a 2003 Savage. This is my first bike, and I got it for a great deal (I think). It has 6,000 miles and I picked it up for $1,500. It’s in great running shape, only problems were a broken mirror and bent foot peg from a minor fall by the previous owner. He did give me the replacement parts though.

Also another problem is that the gas tank lock will not turn. I can get the key in it, but that’s it. I've tried spraying lithium grease, PB Blaster and key graphite into the hole and gave it some taps with a rubber mallet, but no luck.

I plan to do a cafe or bobber build sometime which may involve a new tank. Instead of spending the money to fix my tank lock, I may just look into getting a new tank immediately.  What are some other tanks that people put on these bikes? All I know of is the CS-1 chopped tank, which is way out of my budget. I’d like to chop the tank myself in the future as I learn more metal fab skills.

Congrats!... nice deal...
Put firm  down pressure on the cap with one hand, while attempting to turn the key with the other, (don't break the key!)  If you can't get it,.. take it to a key shop.
Those guys can do magic... They'll usually get it off with ease, and will know if it just needs lube or a new key, or whatever...

google lock picking, the gas cap is pretty easy.