Winchester Custom Shop Model 70 Safari Express Classic .416 Rem Mag Rifle
SOLD FOR: $3,275
LSB#: 231222DH514
Make: Winchester Custom Shop
Model: 70 Classic Custom Safari Express
Serial Number: G2436
Year of Manufacture: 2001 (Date on factory letter)
Caliber: .416 Remington Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle Fed By Internal Magazine
Barrel Length: 24” Tapered Match Grade Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade in a ramped mount fixed to the barrel above the muzzle. The rear express sight has one fixed V-notch leaf and three additional folding leaves with vertical line references on a base that is dovetailed to a windage adjustable riser; the riser is fixed to the top rear of the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled to accommodate mounts for rings and optics (not included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered semi-fancy walnut featuring a semi-pistol grip, a fluted straight comb with a cheek piece, two thru-bolts, and black rubber Decelerator buttpad. There is a sling stud in the belly and one banded to the barrel. The wood shows a couple light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. This stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Satin Matte Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The metal shows a couple of light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition (new old stock).
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a factory hard case with paperwork including the manual and a factory letter, QD sling swivels, and a locking device with key.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 70 is an iconic American sporting rifle that has been a staple of hunters for more than 80 years; reliable, robust, and accurate, it is one of the benchmarks by which all bolt action rifles are measured. It has more than earned its nickname of “the rifleman’s rifle” and is one of the most iconic rifles around. This example is a factory Custom Safari Express Classic model with a 24” match grade barrel, express sights, a handsome checkered semi-fancy walnut stock, and a factory letter to back it all up! Efforts were made to set things back to rights when it came to the Model 70 and this model has the feature of the lauded control-feed bolt. This example was manufactured in 2001 and is chambered in the robust .416 Remington Magnum. By appearances, this rifle appears to have spent more time in the box than out, as there are only a few light handling marks. The rifle rates in Outstanding condition and looks great, this will make for a powerful addition to a Winchester or hunting rifle collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
-Greenfield
