The history of the .338 "Alaskan" model 70 is as unique as the chambering itself. Winchester developed the .338 WM cartridge in 1958, being tailor-made for use in the model 70. In mid-1959, Winchester introduced the .338 chambering for the model 70 with a new and unique 25" barrel, announcing it to the world in mid-year flier that designated the rifle an “Alaskan” model. Other than the new chambering and the 25" barrel, there was nothing unique about this new "Alaskan" model to distinguish it from any other Sporter rifle. When the 1960 catalog came out, the term "Alaskan" was also applied to the only other 25" barrel model 70 - the .375 H&H. Eventually, in 1963, the .300 WM chambering was introduced and also given the "Alaskan" designation, completing this unique subset of model 70 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 .338 Win Mag "Alaskan" Sporter rifle (serial number 462074) was produced in 1959 (see note on early short magnum production years below). The rifle is in NRA excellent condition.
The original bluing is outstanding at 98%+ with no noted blemishes. The bore is excellent with no erosion or pitting and just some minor copper fouling. It grades a 9 out of 10 under borescope inspection. The stock is in excellent condition, retaining its original finish and original Winchester logo recoil pad. The checkering is original and crisp with no blemishes. The stock finish is original with some minor flaking next to the recoil pad, but is otherwise in excellent condition with only a few light scratches and minor handling blemishes. There are no dents, gouges, cracks, oil stains or other problems with the stock. The stock has a skim of bedding at the recoil lug, but nothing in the barrel channel the barrel channel or in any other parts of the inletting.
All parts are correct for the year and chambering and appear original to the rifle. The bolt is factory marked with the serial number corresponding to the receiver.
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.
