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 contour (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 560381) was produced in 1963. The rifle is in NRA very good to excellent condition.
The bluing and metal finishes on this rifle are all original and in very good condition at 95%. There are few honest handling marks and small scratches, but no gouges, large scrapes, pits or other notable problems. The bore is bright with strong rifling and grades 9/10. The stock has been professionally refinished and is well done, with the checkering professionally recut. Overall the stock is excellent. The original Winchester recoil pad is intact and is not cracked or stained. There are no cracks in the inletting or other problems with the stock. The stock has been professionally bedded and there are no apparent modifications to the inletting or barrel channel before it was bedded.
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.
