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 the 1963 catalogue, which resulted in just one year of production for this pre-64 chambering and only 4,916 pre-64 rifles of this caliber produced. The receiver and bolt on this rifle are marked with serial number 560236, indicating production in 1962, making this one of the earliest .300 Win Mag rifles, built just before the 1963 catalog was released.
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 was 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.
This .300 Win Mag "Alaskan" Sporter rifle is in NRA very good condition.
The barrel and receiver bluing on this rifle appear to be original in very good condition at 95%. The only notable bluing wear being on the bolt handle, the edges of the bottom metal, the receiver rails, and the firing pin. There are a few very light scratches in the barrel and trigger guard and floor plate. Other than this, there are no scratches, gouges, pits or other problems with the metal or finish. The bore is bright with strong rifling, no notable pitting, and light to moderate wear in the throat.
The stock has been refinished by the Pre64Win team and the rifle retains its 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.
