Hi
I was hopeing some one who collects Brownings could help out with this.
I have a browning 458 safari grade bolt action. the serial # is 63xxx-L72. I think it is a Sako action. What do you thing the date of manufacture is? What does th -L72 stand for?
Thanks

Try looking here.
http://www.browning.com/services/dategun/index.asp

I don't think it's a Sako action. I'm no where close to being a Browning authority, but I think the only Sako action-Browning rifles were the short actions in calibers like 243, 284, 308, etc.

Somewhere in the 60's Browning switched from an FN 98 like action (controlled feed with the long extractor on the side of the bolt) to a short extractor version.

Thanks for the replies. I can't find a section on the brownign site than covers the old bolt actions. Matt I think you are right. The external dementions of the acton are just like a large ring mauser but it has a sako like extractor. ?? It shoots very well

1972 production included SN 63349L72-64487L72, L72 designates a Safari Grade made in 1972 on an FN Long Action. Sako actions should have been marked with a Y72 or Z72. The .458 Win. was a standard caliber for FN from 1959-1975

Thanks Browningguy!

I think "browning guy" is incorrect. I just a Browning 458 SN 63574 L72, and it is a SHORT extractor.

Bill

Not to piss on anyone's boots but Browning changed the extractor on all magnum calibers in 1967. I would agree the rifle was made in 1972, it is not a SAKO it is a FN action with a short extractor. If you have any questions read Matt Eastman"s book.