thanks all for your input. This rifle was correct in all aspects I'm aware of: "458" stamping on action recoil lug, 6 groove barrel, correct front sight ramp, correct stock which I have with narrow checkering and vented pad, rear sight, etc. Just the 06' stamping under barrel which I"m wondering about, although mr. bsa's theory makes sense. I have Whitaker's book but I cannot find any comments he makes on the "R" on the barrel stamping. I don't have Rule's book which is much more detailed, although I've enjoyed and learned much from Whitaker's book over the years.
