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 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 (serial number 550997) was produced in 1963. The rifle is in NRA very good condition.
The barrel and receiver bluing on this rifle have been restored and are in very good condition at 98%. The only notable bluing wear being on the bolt sleeve, bottom metal and muzzle. There is some very light freckling in the final 4 inches of the barrel bluing, with a few pin-prick pits (see photos). Other than this, there are no scratches, gouges, pits or other problems with the metal or finish. The bore is bright with strong rifling and light wear visible toward the muzzle. There are a few very minor scuffs on the stock, which retains 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.
