Could anyone please confirm what I was told today that one could order from Browning a oiled stock finish rather than the high gloss? Rifle is a mint long extractor that has a nice oil finish and I was told this was done as a special order at the request of typically African bound hunters. The checkering which looks perfect would have me believe this is not a refinish but a factory finish.
Appreciate the responses.

You may want to ask this question in the 'Gun Collecting' forum, as well.

George

ask fla3006 .. he hads an amazing depth of knowledge of all mauser sporters

The oil finish was standard until 1967. When they switched to the short extractors the finish was changed to the high gloss.Source is the Matt Eastman book.I have a .270 Safari with oil finish.

If the finish was strictly oil prior to 1967, then how come there are so many glossy Safaris made in the 1960-1965 era??

LLS

Not to start a pissing contest. page#255 of Browning Sporting Arms of Distinction by Matt Eastman gives the rational.