Description
You’re glassing a ridge at 400 yards, the wind is picking up, and the bull elk you’ve tracked all morning is about to step into the clearing. In that moment, you need a rifle that’s more than a tool—it’s an extension of your will. You need a rifle built for the one shot that matters. That’s the scenario where the Winchester M70 Super Grade Bolt 338 WinMag 26″ Barrel, Grade IV/V Walnut, 3rd earns its reputation. This isn’t a range toy; it’s a purpose-built hunting instrument where controlled-round feeding, a crisp trigger, and premium walnut meet the formidable power of the .338 Winchester Magnum.
Here’s the thing—the Super Grade is Winchester’s flagship model, and it shows. The heart of the system is the legendary M70 controlled-round feed action, a design trusted by professional guides and hunters in the most demanding environments for its reliability. The forged steel bolt with its claw extractor positively controls the cartridge from magazine to chamber, a critical feature when you’re dealing with a potent magnum round. The user-adjustable MOA trigger breaks cleanly, typically around 3.5 pounds, letting you manage recoil and place shots with precision. This rifle is drop-in ready for your hunt, requiring no gunsmithing to achieve its potential. With a price of $1168.79, it represents a significant value for a rifle with this level of finish and proven mechanical pedigree.
Key Features & Performance
The 26-inch hammer-forged barrel is the engine room for the .338 Win Mag. This length is optimal for harnessing the cartridge’s full velocity potential, translating to a flatter trajectory and retained energy at extended ranges. It’s a heavy hitter, generating over 4,000 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, making it a definitive choice for large North American game like elk, moose, and bear. The barrel is free-floated within the forend of the stock, enhancing accuracy by eliminating inconsistent pressure points.
That stock is where the “Super Grade” name becomes tangible. You’re getting a Grade IV/V American walnut stock with a classic, hand-finished look. It features a high-grade checkered pistol grip and forend for a secure hold in all conditions, a steel forend cap, and a solid steel grip cap. The steel buttplate completes the traditional, durable build. It’s a rifle that balances heft for recoil management with a pointable, natural feel. Weighing approximately 8.5 lbs, it’s substantial enough to be steady but not a burden on a long stalk.
Specifications
| Caliber | .338 Winchester Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs |
| Action | Bolt Action, Controlled Round Feed |
| Stock | Grade IV/V American Walnut |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 Rounds |
Pros & Cons
Pros: The controlled-round feed M70 action is supremely reliable. The premium walnut stock offers classic aesthetics and durability. The 26-inch barrel maximizes the .338 Win Mag’s ballistic performance. The adjustable trigger provides a clean, predictable break. It’s a legacy rifle built for serious hunting.
Cons: The .338 Win Mag generates significant recoil—it’s not for novice shooters. The full-length, traditional stock is less modular than modern synthetic/chassis systems. The rifle’s weight and length can make it less maneuverable in thick brush.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is for the hunter who pursues large, tough game at medium to long ranges and demands absolute reliability from their equipment. It’s for the elk hunter in the Rockies, the moose hunter in Alaska, or the hunter preparing for a potential African plains game hunt. If your philosophy leans towards a timeless, mechanical rifle that will last generations and perform under pressure, the Super Grade is your answer. It’s a rifle that respects tradition without compromising on power. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .338 Win Mag too much for elk?
A: Not at all. While capable of taking larger game, the .338 Win Mag is an outstanding, if authoritative, choice for elk, especially at longer ranges or in windy conditions where its heavy, high-BC bullets excel. It provides massive margin for error in shot placement and energy transfer.
Q: Can I mount a scope directly to this rifle?
A: Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts. You will need to purchase separate bases and rings, such as those from trusted brands like Leupold, Talley, or Warne, which are compatible with the Winchester M70 footprint.
Q: What’s the difference between controlled-round feed and push-feed?
A: Controlled-round feed, like in the M70, uses a claw extractor that grips the cartridge rim as it is stripped from the magazine, controlling it all the way into the chamber. This design is praised for its positive extraction and reliability during rapid or off-angle cycling, a valued trait in dangerous game and rough-terrain hunting.
Ready to own a piece of American rifle-making history built for the most demanding hunts? See the current availability and pricing for this Winchester M70 Super Grade on our site.
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