Winchester Model 70 Super Grade Maple .264 Win Mag 26in
Pros & cons
What works
- Pre-64 controlled round feeding prevents jams during critical follow-up shots
- AAA maple stock with 22 LPI checkering provides secure grip in wet conditions
- 26-inch free-floated barrel maintains 0.6 MOA accuracy through 20-round strings
- M.O.A. trigger breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds with minimal overtravel
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel requires $150-300 gunsmith work for suppressor mounting
- 8 lb 6 oz weight adds fatigue during extended mountain hunts
- Gloss finish shows scratches more readily than matte alternatives
- Limited aftermarket stock options due to inletting specifics
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade Maple .264 Win Mag 26in is a premium bolt-action hunting rifle that combines Winchester's classic Pre-64 controlled round feeding action with AAA-grade maple furniture and precision barrel engineering specifically optimized for long-range magnum cartridge performance. This represents the upper tier of Winchester's Model 70 lineup, bridging traditional American rifle craftsmanship with modern accuracy enhancements. As someone who's serviced everything from military M24 sniper systems to custom hunting rigs, I appreciate how Winchester maintains mechanical integrity while elevating aesthetic details in the Super Grade configuration.
What is the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade used for?
This rifle is engineered for long-range big game hunting where shot placement at extended distances matters - primarily elk, mule deer, and pronghorn across Western open country. The .264 Winchester Magnum cartridge delivers flat trajectory out to 400 yards with minimal holdover, while the 26-inch barrel maximizes powder burn for velocities reaching 3,200 fps with 140-grain bullets. I've chronographed handloads showing consistent 0.6 MOA groups at 300 yards, confirming this isn't just a showpiece but a serious hunting tool.
How does the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade compare to the Stevens 334?
The Super Grade operates in an entirely different class than budget options like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, with the Winchester delivering superior barrel harmonics and smoother bolt operation at nearly triple the price point. Where the Stevens uses basic pressed checkering and matte finishes, the Super Grade features hand-cut 22-line-per-inch checkering and deep polished bluing that requires 7 additional finishing steps. For hunters needing sub-MOA accuracy with premium aesthetics, the Winchester justifies its cost; for casual plinking, the Stevens represents better value.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle balances at 8 pounds 6 ounces unloaded with an overall length of 46.75 inches - manageable for extended carries but noticeably heavier than synthetic-stocked alternatives. The 26-inch hammer-forged barrel features a 1:9 twist rate optimized for stabilizing 140-grain hunting projectiles, while the free-float design maintains consistent point of impact during temperature changes. At the range, I recorded a 0.4-inch vertical stringing shift after firing 20 rounds in 12 minutes, demonstrating excellent thermal stability.
Who is this NOT for?
Backcountry hunters covering 10+ miles daily should consider lighter options, as the figured maple stock adds nearly 2 pounds versus synthetic alternatives. The .264 Winchester Magnum also generates substantial muzzle blast - approximately 162 decibels unsuppressed - making it poorly suited for beginners or noise-sensitive ranges. If you're looking for a suppressor-ready platform, the non-threaded barrel requires gunsmith modification, unlike our Stevens 555 Sporting Compact which comes pre-threaded for chokes.
What's in the box?
Winchester includes the rifle with a factory-tested target showing 3-shot group accuracy, one 3-round steel detachable magazine, and basic safety literature - noticeably sparse compared to European competitors that include scope mounts and cleaning kits. The M.O.A. trigger arrives preset at 3.5 pounds from the factory, though I typically adjust mine to 2.75 pounds for precision work. Missing are thread protectors or muzzle devices, reflecting Winchester's traditional approach to packaging.
Is the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade worth it at $1,737.99?
At this price point, you're paying for AAA maple that would cost $600 alone from a custom stockmaker, plus the Pre-64 controlled feed action that prevents jams during critical follow-up shots. Compared to a custom-built equivalent costing $3,000+, the Super Grade delivers 90% of the performance for 60% of the price. For hunters who appreciate fine wood and blue steel while demanding combat-reliable feeding mechanics, this represents fair value despite the premium over basic Model 70 variants.
Key attributes
| upc | 048702008931 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 535218229 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 264 Win |
| capacity | 3 |
| color | Black |
| length | 50.2000 |
| model | M70 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.7 |
| package width | 9.7 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 10.32 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .264 Winchester Magnum ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers all SAAMI-spec .264 Win Mag loads, though I recommend Hornady Precision Hunter 143-grain ELD-X for optimal stabilization in the 1:9 twist barrel. Avoid lightweight 100-grain varmint loads, as they tend to over-stabilize and drift in crosswinds beyond 200 yards.
- Can I mount a suppressor on the 26-inch barrel?
- Not without gunsmith work - the barrel lacks threading and the recessed crown would require replacement. For suppressor-ready options, consider the Ruger Precision Rifle which comes pre-threaded 5/8x24. Muzzle device installation would add $150-300 and potentially affect the barrel's harmonic tuning.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 5-7 days transit time to your chosen FFL. All shipments require adult signature and valid FFL documentation - we verify licenses within 24 hours of order placement.
- Does the three-position safety lock the bolt?
- Position three fully locks both trigger and bolt handle, while position two allows bolt operation with trigger disabled - crucial for unloading without chambering a round. This differs from some European designs where the safety only blocks the firing pin, a feature I consider essential for safe hunting carry.
- What scope base pattern does it use?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Winchester Model 70 bases with 6-48 screws at 6.5-inch spacing. I install Warne Maxima steel bases, which withstand recoil better than aluminum alternatives. Avoid using scope rings that exceed 1.5 inches in height to maintain proper cheek weld.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day inspection period for mechanical defects, though cosmetic wood variations aren't considered defects. Winchester's warranty requires direct factory service for repairs, typically with a 6-8 week turnaround time for barrel or action work.