safari grade rifle

Question
Hi Jim,

I saw one of your postings, and I took your advice by visiting the browning website to date my gun.  It didn't work for me, unfortunately.  I have what I've been told is a safari grade Belgium made browning in 300 win mag, but I'm unable to find the markings on the browning website, which include "58152 L70", "Belgium",  and "browning arms company" (in all caps). What model is this, and what year?

Thanks, Todd

Answer
Hello,

Your rifle was made in 1970. The 70 after the L is the year code. Browning changed the letter codes from the Medallion and Olympian Grades to "L" in 1968 (I believe). The problem is that the Safari Grades had the "L" also, making it impossible to determine what grade the rifle was from the serial number. Prior to 1968 it was simple as the Medallions from the .264 Win Mag up had the letter code "X" and the Olympians, letter code "P". The easiest way to tell what grade you have is to look at the receiver. Does it have engraving? If not, you have a Safari Grade. If it has some scroll engraving on the receiver and barrel, you have a Medallion Grade. If your receiver is greyed with game scenes engraved, you have an Olympian. Hope this helps.

Jim