The .300 Win Mag cartridge was first introduced by Winchester in 1963; that's also when they first produced Model 70 rifles chambered for this new cartridge, and we assume this rifle was produced that year. That said, the serial number on this rifle is unique and documented on page 126 of the excellent reference book The Rifleman's Rifle, by Roger Rule. This rifle has an "x" at the end of the serial number, indicating the serial number was a duplicate of a previously used number. Since the serial number on this rifle (536950x) would normally indicate production in 1961, we have to wonder if numbers were transposed during the stamping process, resulting in an out of sequence and duplicate number, to which the suffix "x" was added. However it happened, the result is a very special rifle that is also in near perfect condition.
The history of the .300 Winchester Magnum "Alaskan" model 70 is as unique as the chambering itself. Winchester introduced the .300 Win Mag chambering for the model 70 in 1963, which resulted in just one year of production for this pre-64 chambering and only 4,916 pre-64 rifles of this caliber produced. Using the #1 barrel profile (24" sporter), the .300 Win Mag became the first and only pre-64 magnum chambering to be offered in a 24" barrel length. The .300 Win Mag would join the .338 Win Mag and .375 H&H as the only model 70 magnum rifles which did not have a 26" barrel length - the only apparent distinguishing feature for the rifles Winchester called the "Alaskan" rifles. Students of the model 70 have debated for years exactly what the "Alaskan" designation means - whether it was tied to the unique barrel lengths (magnums at 24"-25"), or for something else. One thing is certain, Winchester was looking to make money: the Alaskan designation came with a $10 price increase for the .375 in 1960 and $10 higher pricing for the .338 WM and .300 WM, even though there were no real distinguishing features to these rifles beyond the barrel length and chambering. Whatever Winchester's thinking at the time, it has created a uniquely sought after group of rifles which carry the special moniker "The Alaskans". Roger Rule covers this topic in some additional detail on page 231 of his superb book.
The bluing on this rifle is in excellent condition, rated at 98%. The only notable bluing wear being on the extractor and extractor ring, the muzzle, and a small rub (slight thinning, maybe from sitting against a rack) on the top of the barrel at the tip of the stock. There is some very light freckling (pin prick sized) in the bottom metal. Other than this, there are no scratches, gouges, pits or other problems with the metal or finish.
The bore is excellent, near perfect. There is some light copper in the bore, but that is the only proof that this rifle was ever fired. No throat wear, no pitting. We rate this bore a 10 out of 10. Borescope verified.
There are a few very minor marks (safe rash) on the stock, which is otherwise in perfect condition with its original finish and original Winchester vented recoil pad. There are no cracks or stains. The checkering is original and crisp. The stock is not bedded and the barrel channel is unmodified.
NOTE: This item can only be shipped directly to you if you are an FFL or C&R license holder. If this is not the case, the item must be shipped to an FFL holder near you who can complete the transfer. If needed, we are happy to assist you in locating an FFL holder near you who can assist in this way.
This item is only available for shipment to US addresses.
