Description
The Winchester Model 70 Coyote Light .325 WSM, 24″ Barrel, Bell & Carlson Stock, Black/Gray Webbing, 3rd is a purpose-built, long-range hunting rifle designed for open-country predators and medium-to-large game. It combines the legendary Model 70 controlled-round push-feed action with a potent short magnum cartridge and a lightweight, rigid synthetic stock for stability in windy, exposed terrain. I’ve put a few boxes of the stout .325 WSM through this platform, and it’s a serious tool for serious distances.
Key Features
- Bell & Carlson Medalist Stock: The black/gray webbed stock isn’t just for looks. It’s an aluminum bedding block system encased in fiberglass, providing a rock-solid, consistent foundation for the barrel. This thing fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required for a proper, repeatable fit between action and stock.
- .325 Winchester Short Magnum Chambering: This is a flat-shooting, hard-hitting 8mm cartridge that bridges the gap between the .300 WSM and the .338 Win Mag. It drives 200-grain bullets at over 2900 fps, offering devastating energy on elk, moose, or large predators at extended ranges.
- 24″ Sporter Contour Barrel: The longer barrel maximizes the powder burn of the .325 WSM, ensuring you get every bit of velocity the cartridge is capable of. The sporter contour keeps overall weight manageable for a rifle you might have to carry all day.
- Classic Model 70 Action: It features the revered Model 70 controlled-round push feed with a claw extractor, a three-position safety, and a crisp, user-adjustable trigger. It’s a timeless, proven design that just works.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .325 Winchester Short Magnum (.325 WSM) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Stock | Bell & Carlson Medalist, Black/Gray Webbing |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (unscoped) |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 Rounds |
| Action Type | Bolt Action, Push Feed |
Look, the .325 WSM isn’t a plinking round—it’s a specialized hunting cartridge. At $1140.49, this Coyote Light represents a significant investment in a tool for a specific job. You’re paying for the synergy of a premium, pillar-bedded stock from Bell & Carlson married to one of the most respected rifle actions ever made. The price reflects that built-to-a-purpose quality, not just a name. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the hunter who stares across a Wyoming sage flat or a Montana coulee and needs a rifle that won’t waver in a crosswind. It’s for the dedicated predator hunter who wants to reach out and cleanly take coyotes at 400+ yards, or the elk hunter in open timberline country who respects the knockdown power of an 8mm bullet. It’s not a general-purpose deer rifle for treestands; it’s a long-range specialist. The rifle’s total weight, just over 7.5 pounds unscoped, makes it carryable, but that lightweight magnum cartridge does let you know it’s there when you touch it off.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The Bell & Carlson stock is the star, offering incredible stability and a near-custom fit right from the factory. The .325 WSM delivers outstanding ballistics and terminal performance on large game. The 24-inch barrel ensures optimal velocity. The Model 70 action is simply legendary for reliability and smooth operation.
Cons: Ammunition cost and availability for the .325 WSM can be a challenge compared to mainstream calibers. Recoil is substantial—this isn’t a rifle for a new shooter. The lighter weight, while great for carrying, can make the felt recoil more pronounced than a heavier magnum rifle. Here’s the thing—you trade some shootability for portability and power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .325 WSM suitable for elk hunting?
A: Absolutely. It’s considered an outstanding elk cartridge, especially for open-country shots where its flat trajectory and retained energy at distance are major advantages. The 200-grain AccuBond or Partition is a classic elk-stopping load.
Q: What scope base does this Model 70 use?
A: This rifle uses a standard long-action scope base pattern. Brands like Leupold, Warne, and EGW make excellent, reliable bases and rings for it. I typically use a set of Warne Maxima steel rings on a one-piece base for a solid, no-nonsense mount.
Q: How does the Bell & Carlson stock compare to the factory synthetic?
A: It’s a massive upgrade. The factory stock is a basic injection-molded design. The Bell & Carlson uses an aluminum bedding block that fully supports the action, dramatically improving accuracy potential and consistency by eliminating flex and stress points. It’s the single best upgrade you can make to a factory rifle, and it’s already done here.
If you’re in the market for a dedicated, long-range hunting rifle built on an iconic platform with a serious stock from the get-go, this Winchester deserves a close look. Check availability and pricing on our site.
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