Rule's book on the M70 shows on page 229-... 1959 serial numbers began with # 440793 and ended with 465040...your 338 seems to be one of the first 338s...which were released in mid year 1959...my 338 shows serial number 450xxx....


"To pick a rifle and bullet for use on game by muzzle energy alone is, at best, foolish...and can be dangerous to your own health..." Bill Steigers, April 23, 1980