The .276 Pedersen round was developed as an experimental round for the US Military in 1923, as a possible replacement for the .30-06. The actual bore diameter was 7 mm (.284). The round was shorter and lighter than the .30-06 and the main motivator behind the Pederson was that it would be easier to build a compact autoloading rifle around the .276 Pedersen's shorter, more tapered cartridge. US Army Chief of Staff - General Douglas MacArthur rejected the Pedersen round for military use in 1932 due to the fact all existing light infantry weapons were already standardized around the .30-06. But for some unknown reason, in 1936 Winchester built this model 70 chambered for it to fulfill an order for Frankford Arsenal - the US research facility for testing and development of experimental ammunition.
The receiver of this rifle is marked with an "X" prefix in the serial number, indicating an experimental rifle. The receiver, stock, and receiver sight are all stamped "HBJ Frankford Arsenal". The stock has an additional stamping, a "P" inside a circle located on the grip - likely a rack marking indicating "Pederson". The bottom of the barrel bears the unique marking - "7m/m EXP", confirming the experimental nature of this rifle. The barrel is date marked 1935.
The metal is in excellent condition. The original rust bluing on the 24" barrel is excellent. There are some very light scratches on the tang, as well as light bluing wear on the guide areas of the receiver where the bolt lugs contact the guides. The extractor ring shows some bluing wear from bolt cycling, and there is some wear near the muzzle. The bottom metal has some light freckling and bluing wear.
The bore of the 24" barrel has no wear and only light pitting near the muzzle. Borescope verified - we grade the bore an 8 out of 10.
The bolt is correct and is serial number matched to the receiver.
The stock is original with 21 lines per inch checkering and is in very good condition. There are a few light handling marks, but no damage. The stock has not been shortened or otherwise modified and retains its original steel buttplate. The stock is factory notched for the Lyman receiver sight.
NOTE: This rifle must be shipped to an FFL or C&R holder who can complete the transfer. If needed, we are happy to assist you in locating an FFL holder near you who can receive and transfer the rifle to you.
