The FN actions went through three stages I think in the immediate post war period. One was a near military style, then one with the clip guide removed, and finally the thumb slot for stripper clip use removed which was the final version which was used for some time.

The same pattern is found on Husqvarna Models 646-649 which used the FN actions.

I just aquired a FN mauser action and I have few questions. I have a FN 300 and there are some slight differences. The bolt appears to be the same, same markings, safety, etc. but the action is marked differently. It says fn (in a oval) 1948, with made in Belgium under that. The big question is there is a thumb slot on this action and not on my 300. No crest etc on top. It does have the slot but without ears for a striper clip. I am wondering if this is an early comercial or converted mil? Thanks in advance.

PS. the bolt face has been opened for Mag so I guess my 9.3 will have a friend in 458

Idaho, The first importer, postwar, was Seaport Traders,someplace in MS. I bought 3 from them. The magazines were 8 m/m length, The receivers as you describe, not drilled . The bolt handle was altered similar to the later FN's but the knob was a drilled ball which was socketed and copper brazed onto the shank. You could see the copper flash at the joint. There was also ML or maybe MS stamped on the guardbow under stock line .These letters were also stamped near safety lug on the bolt body. Seems like the price was near 3 for $59.50. Seaport also had some with the charger hump on the bridge.