This is a rare and highly collectible Frankford Arsenal marked model 70 chambered in .276 Pedersen. 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. Yet for some unknown reason, in 1937 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. We are aware of only one other model 70 chambered in .276 Pederson. The other example we have seen was produced a year earlier in 1936 and currently resides in an Idaho collection.
The receiver of this rifle is serial number marked 8792, indicating a 1937 manufacture date. The receiver, stock, and receiver sight are all stamped "HBJ Frankford Arsenal." 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 barrel and receiver appear to have a vintage bluing which is different than the carbonia bluing Winchester was using on the model 70 in 1936. The bluing is excellent with no notable edgewear and there are no scratches or flaws to the metal. The bottom metal shows light evidence of handling, with light freckling and bluing wear. The receiver bridge appears to have been professionally repaired at some point (please see photos).
The bore of the 24" barrel has no wear, fouling, or notable pitting. This rifle is essentially unfired - it grades a 9 out of 10 with borescope inspection. 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, and a small flurry of dents near the Franklin Arsenal stamp. The stock has not been shortened or otherwise modified and retains its original steel butt plate. The stock is factory notched for the Lyman receiver sight.
The barrel, and stock are stamped "FRANKFORD ARSENAL" and "H.B.J." (the initials of the chief inspector at Frankford Arsenal in the 1930s and early 1940s). The receiver sight is stamped "H.B.J.".
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.
