Shumba
Just seen your post in trip reports - I was in the Sapi (Zambezi Valley) year before last - envy you getting over there again.
Charlie

Hi Shumba
Thanks - will check out the details when I get home. Don't have a digital camera so it may take a bit of time to get some pics. Really appreciate the response - reference info isn't so readily available here in NZ.

I have a 30-06 pre 64 super grade I'm told approx 1955. It has a high grade walnut stock with a roll-over cheekpiece. I was told it was an original factory stock but haven't been able to find any info re this stock shape. Anyone able to help?

Hi Shumba
details - no. 2944xx four panel checkering, ebony forend tip, recessed sling swivel studs(definitely original). What do you think? Will send a PM re Kiwi life etc.Thanks once again.PS
More of a 'Monte Carlo' than true 'rollover'. What do you think?Charlie

Charlie,

Your serial number indicates a manufactured date of between April 1, 1954 (serial #293,990) through May 3, 1954 (serial #297,890).

Page 167 of the rule book shows a photo of the 3 different cheek piece designs and below the photo reads:

"The three major Super Grade cheek rest designs: the small oval "European" style (1936-1954), the "full fashioned" low-comb piece (1951-1957), and the Monte Carlo variation (1951-1959). Note also the different pistol grip curvatures."

I took a photo of the stock on my Pre-64 M70 Supergrade 30-06 built in 1952. It has the Monte Carlo stock


Here is another photo of a Monte Carlo design from my Pre-64 M70 "African" Supergrade in 458 Win Mag built in 1956.


Based on your description and the date of manufacture, it sounds like you have a factory Monte Carlo.

If yours looks different than the photos above (you should not have a recoil pad like the 458 WM), post a picture if you can. I also have a M70 Supergrade in 7mm Mauser that was made in 1954 (the "clean up" year) and features the small oval "European" style stock (1936-1954).

Hope this helps, let me know if you need anymore details. Sounds like you have a great rifle. I have not shot my 30-06 yet, but the rifling in the bore looks brand new. I don't even think it has been fired. All of my other Pre-64 M70's in 30-06 (I have 4 others and have shot 3 of them) all seem to shoot a least MOA with hunting bullets given just a little load development.

Have fun!

Tim