I don't know why someone would want a plastic stock when you have a beautiful wooden one. I have all 3 chamberings. Recently bought the 416 and haven't shot it yet. The 458 kicks like a mule, the 375 is not bad. Love this rifle.
@@garyhammond2213 People like quality hand-laid "composite" stocks because they are more durable than wood stocks and not affected by weather. A composite stock with aluminum bedding block will never crack at the magwell or suffer a broken wrist. But I agree, nice wood looks better.
I thoroughly enjoyed this video, even though I have no need at this time, or probably ever, of any rifle chambered in anything other than my Browning in .30-06. Your videos are exceptionally well done and the pacing makes the time fly by, unlike some YT videos whereby 10 minutes seem to drag on interminably. Thanks for your efforts, they are appreciated.
Hi DD I wouldn't want the trigger pull any lighter than 3 1/2 lbs for dangerous game , adrenalin does strange things to a person's touch & feel , when the situation gets serious. Well presented episode !
I agree. You will never go prone or be obsessive about precision with a Safari Express. For most rifles, I recommend an aftermarket trigger; but for the Safari Express, the MOA trigger is perfect for the intended purpose of the rifle. When you have a mean old Dagga Boy staring at you from 25 yards away, a 2-lb trigger is the last thing you want.
I have one of the model 70 safari’s in 416 Rem Mag. It was one made in Portugal, and it has been an awesome rifle for me. Has been a constant sub moa rifle for me with handloads. My two favorite loads I use for whitetail are a 300 grain TSX at 2720 fps and a 340 woodleigh PP at right at 2700 fps. I know i still have probable 100 fps left to go on the 300 gr TSX load, but it shoots 1/2 moa so I just left it. The 340 woodleigh is my favorite load though it just absolutely hammers deer shoots slightly under 3/4 moa. I know a lot of people think it’s foolish to use this rifle on deer, but it’s a lot of good practice if I ever do make it to Africa one day.
Meat damage is a function of velocity and bullet construction so actually at the velocities you are shooting you will get no more meat damage, probably less because of bullet construction, than a .308 at the same velocity.
@@JonRangel87 it’s a whole lot better practice than just shooting the rifle at the range. Meat loss is actually quite minimal even shooting the lighter bullets at higher velocity, due to the bullets still being very strongly constructed.
It's definitely on my to get list! You can't beat a model 70! I definitely want to add the Safari Express into my collection. I have a feather weight and an All Weather SS they are addictive that's for sure. I'm not afraid to admit I'm a Winchester model 70 fan boy.
Love my New Haven, Connecticut Safari Express in 375 H&H. Prepping for a water buffalo and red stag hunt in Argentina and I’ll be taking it as well as my 1982 XTR in 270 Win or my 1992 Featherweight in 7x57. Im still load developing and will use whatever gives me best results. Winchester Model 70 are the only bolt guns I own. My pride and joy is a flawless 1937 four digit serial no chambered in 257 Roberts equipped with a Zeiss 4x scope mounted in Griffin & Howe quick disconnect. It also has the Lyman 48 WJS peep sight making it the truly perfect deer and varmit gun.
I have two Safari Expresses; one in 416 REM Mag and the other 458 Win Mag. Both have taken Cape Buffalos, Lion, Hippo, and many plains game in Africa. Here in the US they’ve hunted deer and the 458 stopped a black bear from getting in my house. The rifles just work I’ve never had problems both feed all respective ammo. Awesome video!
Model 70’s are the only bolt rifles I hunt with. My three are all Portugal made, one in 264 WM, one in 300 WM, and one I had built in 280 Ackley Improved with a Bartlien barrel. The last one I’ll get is a Safari Express in .375 H&H. I love the controlled feed and the 3 position safety. Best safety system ever built. I also have a custom Mauser built on an ‘09 Argentine Mauser action in .270 Win. It was the CRF action and safety on the Mauser that led me to Winchester.
Best and most thorough review of this rendition of the Model 70 I've seen. From all accounts the present Safari Express--"warts and all"--may be the most dependable of all DG bolt rifles. And maybe doubles too. It will be my third .375 H&H. Good show!
Wonderful video, what a great educational experience. Not only have I hunted Africa 5 times, but I also help out in a local Gun Shop. And couldn’t agree more with you. Fit and finish for a production rifle is top notch. Edit; Win is taking the market CZ left open.
I’ve got a M70 Classic Stainless in 375 that I put into a Safari Express stock - huge improvement over the factory synthetic. It made a trip to South Africa last year and also took a Texas pig a couple years ago.
I'm so happy Winchester returned to all the good features on model 70. If they just start reproducing a ''modern'' model 21shotgun then I would be in rifle heaven! :D , Great viedo, thanks for sharing!
I suggest always for first time hunters to buy a M70 in .416 Remington. Why? Price! Is the 70 as good as my rifle? Hell no! But for about $3000 is very much less expensive than my rifle. And Mauser makes different bolts for different manufacturers so don’t use that. Do you think a Mauser bolt in an actual Mauser is the same as one in a Rigby?
Agreed. Maybe modernize the old African stock with had the black forend tip and pistol grip cap as well as a monte carlo stock--just change the lines a bit on it.
Really great video on the M70 Safari Express. So much info and accurate info at that. Great Job! My favourite hunting rifle action and it been to Africa and performed flawlessly!
Thank you for sharing this information very informative, A late friend owned a pre 64 in 375 H&H magnum his brother owned another in 300 H&H magnum. Brilliant design and construction.
Bought one in 416 rem a few years ago. Love shooting it. I’ve got 1 SC gun and 3 Portugal made. Build quality is good across the board. Of mine I’d say the Portuguese guns are actually nicer.
Hi desert dog. I have 1 model 70. In 225 winchester. And i have a m54 30 gov o6. Made in 1925 or 1926. Awsome quality. . . Awsome video. I can only imagine having one in 458. . God bless.
Desert dog. I have several winchesters that were inherited. From my family. My greatgrandpaps 1894 3240 was made in 1898. I'm using it this year in Pennsylvania deer season. It's bank vault tight and very accurate. . Winchester is the best hunting rifle ever made. God bless
Nice vid to watch while I am finally trying to get my 1961 Model 70 in .264 Win Mag up and running. Finally picked up some copper rounds that were not ridiculously expensive in the caliber. And like you said here my Model 70 just dunks on the Mauser action i have in every way. Bolt smoothness, feeding, trigger, safety. Am leaning toward topping it off with a Trijicon Creedo 2.5x15x which you recommended in your scope vid.
what a great technical review of a iconic rifle and brand DD , i heard you say on last HCM you had rifle review videos coming up but what a surprise to find out it was on a mod-70 big game winchester , love these type of reviews more than shooting ballistic gel (nothing wrong with that if you are interested in bullet research) i have one mod-70 and would trade a few of my other selections to own more than one caliber in these traditionally beautiful rifles , trouble you have now is you started with the top dog of rifles where to now a browning , a Weatherby vanguard 243 ? still watching from australia , barry (no Remington's here)
I always keep a rifle in the stand in my den. Just to look at. Usually, it's a Model 70. I took a very nice 6 by 6 whitetail with my open sight .270 on The Pine Ridge Reservation last fall and my guide smoked a real bruiser with his Savage 99. Lots of snickers on the 15 mile trail back to the ranch. Sly comments about range finders and scopes, mostly.
Long time listener, first time caller. I continue to be impressed by how much information you've managed to pack into these videos. Thank you for making them.
The two movies i saw about the safari m70 was Dirty Harry and Hatari. Two movies i very much like,but which my teachers hated with a passion . That was early 90s . Gee i wonder why😅 But i got a Std Rifle m70 in .375 early 50s so its mine. Next will be a .300 HH m70 if i can find one .
@@MrPh30 There are pictures floating around of him shooting the elephant during full charge! I think Roy Weatherby (who was a friend of Wayne and provided rifles to him) was probably a little hurt over that movie, lol.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Yes thats likely ,but its difference on 2600 fps and 2100 fps in .458 Solid on big game. So since i got a m70 mid 50s standard rifle , i fully see it . Not a African but .375 it is. Now im studying and waiting for a book about Asian hunts, some of book content for ;a eating Royal Bengal Tigers .
I bought one of the Safari Expresses for my best friend a few years back when it was in a local gun shop and I am friends when the store owner and got a great buy in it and it’s my friends favorite rifle other then the pre64’s I gave him! Thanks for the video DD looking forward to the next video my friend!
Great video, very comprehensive. One suggestion for travel instead of the liquid corrosion spray is Sentry Solutions Marine Tuf Cloth. Great product, inexpensive, and works awesome. Been using it on high carbon knives for years and not a spot of corrosion, even on the brass fittings.
I wish I count the number of late production Model 70 Safari Express rifles I’ve had in my shop for custom stocks and Blackburn bottom metal. I’ve probably customized 200 or 300 over the years. Some of the .458 Winchester I’ve rechambered for .458 Lott. Bastogne Walnut with ebony tip and cap is my recommended choice for these hard recoiling calibers. Some I have engraved fully or partially. 3 leaf express sight are also commonly ask for and custom load work up. The most common request, by far, is welding on a longer bolt handle which I make in my shop. I always full length bed the action and chamber all the way to the secondary recoil lug on the barrel. Another great video @DD.
Interesting. Just a couple questions. Besides looking sharp why is an ebony tip and cap a recommendation? Or is it just because it looks good? The Blackburn bottom metal is pricey, how is it better than what comes standard? I mean lt's like another $500 to replace steel with steel. Last question I promise! Since you mentioned a shop do you have a link with photos if your finished work?
I notice that on the Model 70 416 rem mag you have in this video, you have horizontal rings vs the model 70 416 rem mag you have in your 416 rem mag video of several years ago, where they are vertical rings. Is there a functional reason you changed from vertical to horizontal rings on this DG rifle? Are your horizontal rings quick release and may I ask what brand you are using for these horizontal rings? Thank you for all you do for us.
I have a Model 70 Safari Express - a LEFT HAND model made in New Haven. I also have two other M70s with left hand actions, but they are not Safari Express rifles. FN stopped making left hand Model 70s after they moved from New Haven, apparently. They are out there and can be found.
Mike, I too have 2 Left Hand Model 70's, one in .375 H&H Classic and one in .30-06 Classic, both with CRF. The only problem with the .375 H&H is, before I got it, someone cut the barrel to 20 inches, not a lot of fun to shoot!! Might have to look for a new barrel.
@@donkeene1948 I like a 23" - 24" barrel on most of my rifles. For a .375 H&H I agree that a 20" barrel, while handy, leaves too much powder unburnt at bullet exit time.
Strange. They were available from retailers last year. My local Bass Pro Shops had 3 on the shelves. My best friend bought a new one in 416 last year online (from Grab a Gun). Stock is dried up right now, except for overpriced ones on Gunbroker. The best thing to do is sign-up for notifications with the online retailers (I do this with bullets all the time).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 That’s what I was told by our buyer. 🤷🏼♂️ I work at a gun store. We are probably one of winchester’s biggest dealers in our part of Texas.
Nice video. Spot on about availability. I ordered one in 416 Rem Mag about a year ago. My dealer said at the time that it could be up to two years in getting filled. I’m hoping they do another run soon.
There was a big rifle run that flooded retailers at the beginning of 2023. Those were gone within a month or two. Remember, the big retailers like Cabellas, Scheels, and Sportmans Warehouse are going to get their orders filled first. Get put on the "notification list" for all the big retailers.
Nice to know. Now I have to have one 😂 I have the Super Express in 458 lott.. I don't trust the push feed. I grew up with a FN .375 h&h with a beautiful mauser action.. fantastic rifle. Never let me down and never had any issues. Winchester were stupid to make "big game" rifles with push feed.
Two things would have to be changed besides the chambering. The magazine box needs to be replaced or the spacer removed and the follower will need to be replaced with the longer one.
If you can get proper eye relief at 10-power with this rifle and a VX5 2-10x40, with Talley Lighweight rings; you are the only person i've met to accomplish that without a rail or extended front base. Have you tried to shoot it on 10-power (where you need 3.7" of eye relief)? The real-estate on that front tube is very small.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 it was the screw lock detachable rings on their steel bases. I can’t recall specifically the eye relief on 10x zoom but I remember the tube fit, just. I don’t explicitly recall eye relief being an issue but it was a few years ago - I could be wrong
@@williamfeldner9356 I own 4 Alaskans. They don't have double recoil lugs, heavy barrels, high-quality Express sights, or barrel bands. The 458 Win Safari Express is only 5oz heavier than the Alaskan.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I do so enjoy your Utube channel….. but I do prefer my 375 Alaskan…….. it does handle for me much better than the Safari…… I am unaware of any Alaskans in 375 that have broken stocks ……. 375 H@H is the minimum dangerous game cartridge in most of Africa….. and it gives me a little more confidence in elk country where I hunt in the Montana, Idaho and Wyoming area as the grizzly population boomed in recent years and human/grizzly bears encounters have increased….. but you are correct for the real big dangerous game cartridges the Safari is the better build rifle…….it is just not the better handling rifle for ME….. I am not recoil sensitive by any means, but recoil does have an effect on accuracy and I think that the 416 or 458 would maybe be too much for me trying to thread a bullet. I absolutely love my Winchester Model 70 Alaskan in 375 H@H with Talley Mounts and a Leupold VX 3 HD 1.5-5X Heavy Duplex Custom Shop built Scope………. PS looking at the time stamp it appears you are an early riser….. have a great day Dog of the Desert……..🏜️
@@williamfeldner9356I was lucky enough to snag one of the limited edition M70 Alaskan Stainless/Laminate models while they were being made in South Carolina. It's chambered in 375H&H and is one of my favorite guns. I took it to Africa in 2016 and my wife used it for 2 weeks and stole it from me. But for anything over 375, the Safari Express is a much better platform.
They were actually pretty reasonable before Covid but rifles took a big jump just like everything else did and are also a lot harder to find now. I have an Express in 375 and a Weatherby Mark 5 stainless in 375 and sure glad I got them before Covid because they are up about 30-40% since then if you can even find one.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 No doubt sir, that's the one thing I left out of my comment. I watched the whole video, you did a beautiful job bedding the new stock. I could save for the rifle, but the African hunt, no way. Nevertheless, I've happily watched every video you've made on the subject.
@@mikemelina7395I’m pretty positive I’ll never be able to make it to Africa no matter how bad I want too. But I was able two aquire some dangerous game calibers. I just use them on whitetail and hogs. It’s great practice anyways in case I do ever make it to Africa before I die. I would steer you towards an interarms mark X commercial mauser dangerous game rifle, but unfortunately they have also skyrocketed in price since Covid. I have one chambered in a 416 Taylor Improved and I love that rifle as much as my model 70 in 416 Remington. Might be worth a shot to look and see if you can find some in good price range I believe the only dangerous game calibers they offer are 375 H&H and 458 win mag, they also have 9.3x62.
Actually, I've never heard of headspacing issues with any of the Winchester Safari rifles. This comes from years of experience in a shop, and a lifetime of actual ownership and use.
Depends on budget and intended use. For a beater rifle; Green Mountain and ER shaw will be acceeptable. For a great hunting rifle; Pac-Nor, Douglas, and Hart will make fine barrels. For compettion; Bartlein, Krieger, Brux, and Shilen are popular.
I finally sourced a SE in 375 H&H 2 or 3 years ago. Have not scoped it or shot it seriously yet, mainly just trying 2-3 ptarmigan loads in it. Roundball and 38-55 lead slugs. What are your thoughts re Leupold QD mounts on a rifle of this type? Thanks, Dog!
I assume you mean "QR Mounts". I am not a fan of the old-school QR mount/ring system; and although people do use them, i've seen many problems with them on heavy-recoil rifles. I hate rings with only 1 screw per side. The "QRW Rings" are a much better than the old "QR" system (but these rings ALWAYS need lapping). Try to stick with steel rings and bases.
@@K-bob_45 I bet they were made by FN in Columbia. They have a chf machine there. Sometimes their barrels get sold to psa. I tend to want chf. I’ve seen too many Tikkas and Ruger Americans run circles around button rifled barrels such as Bergara.
@@mr.mr.3301 tikkas are no joke. I haven’t had the same experiences with Ruger. Of my model 70’s I can’t tell one or the other being dramatically better. They all shoot good when I feed them right.
@@Nick-wn1xw I've won matches with Shilen botton-rifled barrels. People read internet forums too much. A properly stress-relieved button-rifled barrel will win matches.
The Alaskan has a sporter profile barrel (vs heavy barrel), a fore-end mounted sling stud (vs a barrel band), only 1 recoil lug (vs dual recoil lugs), a minimalist rear sight (vs express sight). The safari express is a more robustly-built rifle better suited for bigger cartridges.
The Classic Super Express and Classic Safari Express were made in left-hand versions. The modern FN Safari Express (2010-now) and all FN Model 70s are right-hand only. When the New Haven plant was shut down, they stopped making left-hand Model 70s.
I’ve been looking for a 416 Rem Mag in one of these, off and on, for a couple of years now. You don’t see them very often these days, post Covid. I think that GB prices are inflated. A couple around 3.3K. Maybe that’s what they go for now. But, I’ll admit, I don’t know what the usual MSRP is nowadays. Pre-Covid, I did.
I t took me quite awhile to find mine in 416 rem mag also. I got it when covid was still in full effect unfortunately. I believe at that time MSRP was around $1,300-$1,400. I finally found a new one on gunbroker, and by the time I won it and the shipping and taxes ended up slightly less than $2,000. Which I know I overpaid, but I’d been really looking for over a year until I finally just bit the bullet. I love the rifle, so I don’t feel bad for paying extra. Unfortunately last time I was on gunbroker a few weeks ago all the ones I saw listed were around $3,000 😳
Thanks Andrew. Yes, I remember when they were in the 1.3-1.4K range. It seems to me if you got yours at under 2K, that’s not a bad price for these days. I would easily pay around 2K, but not 3K or 3.3K. I had one of these around 10-12 yrs ago and sold it! Dumb move. I have a 416 Wby., but want a Model 70, again, as well. The Wby is not a CRF, of course, and is 2+1 for cartridge capacity, but it has power up the wazoo! I mainly have it for S&G. It’s a blast to shoot, pun intended!
Excellent video and truly appreciate your efforts. I would like to imagine it's hard to get one these new. I've had the Win.Mod. 70 Alaskan on order for 2.5 years now....ugh
Insider tip: Never order directly from a manufacturer. Rather, place yourself on the "notify when in stock" list for all the major retailers. Big retailers get their orders first. This also applies to bullets, brass, and primers. My best friend bought a Safari Express last year when there was an inventory dump to retailers.
With the new M77 Hawkeye African, you are stuck traveling around the world with "proprietary cartridges". This takes Ruger off the list for me (plus, Model 70 quality is better).
I would love to own a Winchester Model 70. I just wished that LH versions were available - at least in current production models. Great video, Desert Dog - thanks! P.S. I love that $100 bill free float on the barrel! 😂
These types of videos are my favorite. Since I'm a Ruger fan, I would love to see a similar video about the different model 77 RSM rifles and the current Hawkeye African models.
I actually think it's relatively skinny for a dangerous game rifle. Definitely skinnier than a CZ550 or Rigby. Remember, it has to be thick enough to inlet for the second recoil lug.
The Alaskan has a sporter profile barrel (vs heavy barrel), a fore-end mounted sling stud (vs a barrel band), only 1 recoil lug (vs dual recoil lugs), a minimalist rear sight (vs express sight), and a thinner-profile monte carlo stock. The safari express is a more robustly-built rifle better suited for bigger cartridges.
Great video! I have a M70 for 30 years now and it serves me well. I would appreciate if you could provide the proper torque values for the action screws and if you now a stock maker you could recommend would be great too. Keep going.
I absolutely love the American made model 70’s, but my Portuguese model 70 outshoots both New Haven made model 70’s I owned. I like em all I never owned or shot one of the ones made in South Carolina though, so no experience with those.
I don't know why someone would want a plastic stock when you have a beautiful wooden one. I have all 3 chamberings. Recently bought the 416 and haven't shot it yet. The 458 kicks like a mule, the 375 is not bad. Love this rifle.
@@garyhammond2213 People like quality hand-laid "composite" stocks because they are more durable than wood stocks and not affected by weather. A composite stock with aluminum bedding block will never crack at the magwell or suffer a broken wrist. But I agree, nice wood looks better.
I bought a Safari Express in .375 H&H back in 2021, after watching too many Desert Dog Outdoors videos, no regrets!!!!
So I’m not the only dummkopf influence by this maniac! You know you’ve gone too far when you start hunting squirrel with a 458 Lott.
@@falba1492 it happens!!!!
FYI: Midway just got a bunch of Nosler 375H&H brass in stock. I just bought several boxes.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 THANKS!!!!!!
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Thanks for the tip. I had purchased some. Now if I could only get some H4895.
I thoroughly enjoyed this video, even though I have no need at this time, or probably ever, of any rifle chambered in anything other than my Browning in .30-06. Your videos are exceptionally well done and the pacing makes the time fly by, unlike some YT videos whereby 10 minutes seem to drag on interminably. Thanks for your efforts, they are appreciated.
I have a New Haven classic super express in .375 H&H. Absolutely love it
Hi DD
I wouldn't want the trigger pull any lighter than 3 1/2 lbs for dangerous game , adrenalin does strange things to a person's touch & feel , when the situation gets serious.
Well presented episode !
I agree. You will never go prone or be obsessive about precision with a Safari Express. For most rifles, I recommend an aftermarket trigger; but for the Safari Express, the MOA trigger is perfect for the intended purpose of the rifle. When you have a mean old Dagga Boy staring at you from 25 yards away, a 2-lb trigger is the last thing you want.
Mine will never see dangerous game in Africa, however it works extremely well on hogs in south Texas.
I have one of the model 70 safari’s in 416 Rem Mag. It was one made in Portugal, and it has been an awesome rifle for me. Has been a constant sub moa rifle for me with handloads. My two favorite loads I use for whitetail are a 300 grain TSX at 2720 fps and a 340 woodleigh PP at right at 2700 fps. I know i still have probable 100 fps left to go on the 300 gr TSX load, but it shoots 1/2 moa so I just left it. The 340 woodleigh is my favorite load though it just absolutely hammers deer shoots slightly under 3/4 moa. I know a lot of people think it’s foolish to use this rifle on deer, but it’s a lot of good practice if I ever do make it to Africa one day.
😂 I want one but I think I’d be in your same camp trying to use it for 100lb deer. If I ever go hunt Buff in Africa, I’m getting one in 416 though!
Meat damage is a function of velocity and bullet construction so actually at the velocities you are shooting you will get no more meat damage, probably less because of bullet construction, than a .308 at the same velocity.
Hunting deer with a 416 rem mag is absurd
This guy really hunting a tiny deer with a 416 is insane to me 😂
@@JonRangel87 it’s a whole lot better practice than just shooting the rifle at the range. Meat loss is actually quite minimal even shooting the lighter bullets at higher velocity, due to the bullets still being very strongly constructed.
It's definitely on my to get list! You can't beat a model 70! I definitely want to add the Safari Express into my collection. I have a feather weight and an All Weather SS they are addictive that's for sure. I'm not afraid to admit I'm a Winchester model 70 fan boy.
Great presentation as always Desert Dog! Always something new to learn from your videos.
Another fantastic video from someone who has real experience, knowledge, and wisdom. Thank you.
Love my New Haven, Connecticut Safari Express in 375 H&H.
Prepping for a water buffalo and red stag hunt in Argentina and I’ll be taking it as well as my 1982 XTR in 270 Win or my 1992 Featherweight in 7x57. Im still load developing and will use whatever gives me best results.
Winchester Model 70 are the only bolt guns I own. My pride and joy is a flawless 1937 four digit serial no chambered in 257 Roberts equipped with a Zeiss 4x scope mounted in Griffin & Howe quick disconnect. It also has the Lyman 48 WJS peep sight making it the truly perfect deer and varmit gun.
I have two Safari Expresses; one in 416 REM Mag and the other 458 Win Mag. Both have taken Cape Buffalos, Lion, Hippo, and many plains game in Africa. Here in the US they’ve hunted deer and the 458 stopped a black bear from getting in my house. The rifles just work I’ve never had problems both feed all respective ammo. Awesome video!
If you want great, detailed info on the best hunting rifles, this is the guy you should listen to.
Model 70’s are the only bolt rifles I hunt with. My three are all Portugal made, one in 264 WM, one in 300 WM, and one I had built in 280 Ackley Improved with a Bartlien barrel. The last one I’ll get is a Safari Express in .375 H&H. I love the controlled feed and the 3 position safety. Best safety system ever built. I also have a custom Mauser built on an ‘09 Argentine Mauser action in .270 Win. It was the CRF action and safety on the Mauser that led me to Winchester.
Best value among dangerous game rifles available, no question.
I agree.
Best and most thorough review of this rendition of the Model 70 I've seen. From all accounts the present Safari Express--"warts and all"--may be the most dependable of all DG bolt rifles. And maybe doubles too. It will be my third .375 H&H. Good show!
Wonderful video, what a great educational experience. Not only have I hunted Africa 5 times, but I also help out in a local Gun Shop. And couldn’t agree more with you. Fit and finish for a production rifle is top notch.
Edit; Win is taking the market CZ left open.
I’ve got a M70 Classic Stainless in 375 that I put into a Safari Express stock - huge improvement over the factory synthetic. It made a trip to South Africa last year and also took a Texas pig a couple years ago.
Nice. Wish they would chamber the Model 70 in 9,3x62 as well.
If only they would release the 70 in 300 H&H….. I would be complete. ❤
I'm so happy Winchester returned to all the good features on model 70. If they just start reproducing a ''modern'' model 21shotgun then I would be in rifle heaven! :D , Great viedo, thanks for sharing!
Desert dog. That m 70 you are holding is absolutely bueatiful. And a winchester. Non better
I suggest always for first time hunters to buy a M70 in .416 Remington. Why? Price! Is the 70 as good as my rifle? Hell no! But for about $3000 is very much less expensive than my rifle. And Mauser makes different bolts for different manufacturers so don’t use that. Do you think a Mauser bolt in an actual Mauser is the same as one in a Rigby?
Another outstanding video DD, and what a perfect rifle. Thanks for the time you put in.
Only wish I have would be a Super Grade stock added. Good walnut and a forend tip would make it a bit classier looking, but as is it’s good to go. 👍🏻
Agreed. Maybe modernize the old African stock with had the black forend tip and pistol grip cap as well as a monte carlo stock--just change the lines a bit on it.
Really great video on the M70 Safari Express. So much info and accurate info at that. Great Job! My favourite hunting rifle action and it been to Africa and performed flawlessly!
Excellent as usual.
Kind regards
New Brunswick Canada 🇨🇦
Great vid. Thanks DD! The two $100 bills to show the free floated-ness was a bit of a flex 😂
Thank you for sharing this information very informative, A late friend owned a pre 64 in 375 H&H magnum his brother owned another in 300 H&H magnum. Brilliant design and construction.
I had 3: all to grand sons, all made in 1955: .308 win featherlight,
30:06 standard, .300 H and H.
Desert dog. I also have a 1895 405 winchester. . Another hard hitter. . I love it . Mine is still original.
Bought one in 416 rem a few years ago. Love shooting it. I’ve got 1 SC gun and 3 Portugal made. Build quality is good across the board. Of mine I’d say the Portuguese guns are actually nicer.
Hi desert dog. I have 1 model 70. In 225 winchester. And i have a m54 30 gov o6. Made in 1925 or 1926. Awsome quality. . . Awsome video. I can only imagine having one in 458. . God bless.
Desert dog. I have several winchesters that were inherited. From my family. My greatgrandpaps 1894 3240 was made in 1898. I'm using it this year in Pennsylvania deer season. It's bank vault tight and very accurate. . Winchester is the best hunting rifle ever made. God bless
Nice vid to watch while I am finally trying to get my 1961 Model 70 in .264 Win Mag up and running. Finally picked up some copper rounds that were not ridiculously expensive in the caliber. And like you said here my Model 70 just dunks on the Mauser action i have in every way. Bolt smoothness, feeding, trigger, safety. Am leaning toward topping it off with a Trijicon Creedo 2.5x15x which you recommended in your scope vid.
what a great technical review of a iconic rifle and brand DD , i heard you say on last HCM you had rifle review videos coming up but what a surprise to find out it was on a mod-70 big game winchester , love these type of reviews more than shooting ballistic gel (nothing wrong with that if you are interested in bullet research) i have one mod-70 and would trade a few of my other selections to own more than one caliber in these traditionally beautiful rifles , trouble you have now is you started with the top dog of rifles where to now a browning , a Weatherby vanguard 243 ? still watching from australia , barry (no Remington's here)
Great breakdown! Very informative. Thanks
I always keep a rifle in the stand in my den. Just to look at. Usually, it's a Model 70. I took a very nice 6 by 6 whitetail with my open sight .270 on The Pine Ridge Reservation last fall and my guide smoked a real bruiser with his Savage 99. Lots of snickers on the 15 mile trail back to the ranch. Sly comments about range finders and scopes, mostly.
Long time listener, first time caller. I continue to be impressed by how much information you've managed to pack into these videos. Thank you for making them.
I got one in 375 h&h but I was thinking about re-chambering it 375 Weatherby but can decide if it worth it sense I already bought dies in h&h
Keep it 375 H&H.
Really enjoyed watching this video. Probably the best video on this model. Thank you for making it and sharing with us.
The two movies i saw about the safari m70 was Dirty Harry and Hatari. Two movies i very much like,but which my teachers hated with a passion . That was early 90s . Gee i wonder why😅
But i got a Std Rifle m70 in .375 early 50s so its mine.
Next will be a .300 HH m70 if i can find one .
Came across a pre-64 300 H&H at auction awhile back. Nineteen c-notes later and it's all mine. 😊
Hatari featured some very nice rifles. John Wayne killed an elephant for real with a Model 70 during the filming of that movie, but they cut it out.
Yes i know that, there is pictures of him around with the,Elephant .
@@MrPh30 There are pictures floating around of him shooting the elephant during full charge! I think Roy Weatherby (who was a friend of Wayne and provided rifles to him) was probably a little hurt over that movie, lol.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Yes thats likely ,but its difference on 2600 fps and 2100 fps in .458 Solid on big game. So since i got a m70 mid 50s standard rifle , i fully see it . Not a African but .375 it is.
Now im studying and waiting for a book about Asian hunts, some of book content for ;a eating Royal Bengal Tigers .
I bought one of the Safari Expresses for my best friend a few years back when it was in a local gun shop and I am friends when the store owner and got a great buy in it and it’s my friends favorite rifle other then the pre64’s I gave him! Thanks for the video DD looking forward to the next video my friend!
Great video, very comprehensive.
One suggestion for travel instead of the liquid corrosion spray is Sentry Solutions Marine Tuf Cloth. Great product, inexpensive, and works awesome. Been using it on high carbon knives for years and not a spot of corrosion, even on the brass fittings.
They are nice. I ordered a 416 Remington mag. I also have two Ruger magnum Express rifles. One in 416 Rigby and 458 Lott.
I'm curious where you ordered a Safari Express in .416 Rem? I haven 't seen one actually available for sale in years.
Double D,
Comprehensive comparative dissertation of Winchester Model 70.
Thank you for watching.
I wish I count the number of late production Model 70 Safari Express rifles I’ve had in my shop for custom stocks and Blackburn bottom metal. I’ve probably customized 200 or 300 over the years. Some of the .458 Winchester I’ve rechambered for .458 Lott. Bastogne Walnut with ebony tip and cap is my recommended choice for these hard recoiling calibers. Some I have engraved fully or partially. 3 leaf express sight are also commonly ask for and custom load work up. The most common request, by far, is welding on a longer bolt handle which I make in my shop. I always full length bed the action and chamber all the way to the secondary recoil lug on the barrel. Another great video @DD.
Interesting. Just a couple questions. Besides looking sharp why is an ebony tip and cap a recommendation? Or is it just because it looks good? The Blackburn bottom metal is pricey, how is it better than what comes standard? I mean lt's like another $500 to replace steel with steel. Last question I promise! Since you mentioned a shop do you have a link with photos if your finished work?
What do think of the Ruger Hawkeye safari
I notice that on the Model 70 416 rem mag you have in this video, you have horizontal rings vs the model 70 416 rem mag you have in your 416 rem mag video of several years ago, where they are vertical rings.
Is there a functional reason you changed from vertical to horizontal rings on this DG rifle? Are your horizontal rings quick release and may I ask what brand you are using for these horizontal rings?
Thank you for all you do for us.
Watch the April 2024 episode of "Hunt Camp Mail". At 21:00 in the video, I answer your question. ruclips.net/video/58LqaiM3_DA/видео.html
Great video. Very informative. Thank you.
I have a Model 70 Safari Express - a LEFT HAND model made in New Haven. I also have two other M70s with left hand actions, but they are not Safari Express rifles. FN stopped making left hand Model 70s after they moved from New Haven, apparently. They are out there and can be found.
Mike, I too have 2 Left Hand Model 70's, one in .375 H&H Classic and one in .30-06 Classic, both with CRF. The only problem with the .375 H&H is, before I got it, someone cut the barrel to 20 inches, not a lot of fun to shoot!! Might have to look for a new barrel.
Then you own a "Classic Safari Express", made between 1999 and 2006.
@@donkeene1948 I like a 23" - 24" barrel on most of my rifles. For a .375 H&H I agree that a 20" barrel, while handy, leaves too much powder unburnt at bullet exit time.
Do the Alaskan next
Beautiful Rifle!
We’ve had our Model 70 safaris on order since Covid and they have yet to be made/shipped.
Strange. They were available from retailers last year. My local Bass Pro Shops had 3 on the shelves. My best friend bought a new one in 416 last year online (from Grab a Gun). Stock is dried up right now, except for overpriced ones on Gunbroker. The best thing to do is sign-up for notifications with the online retailers (I do this with bullets all the time).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 That’s what I was told by our buyer. 🤷🏼♂️ I work at a gun store. We are probably one of winchester’s biggest dealers in our part of Texas.
@@jacklewis3444 * LINKS REMOVED BECAUSE RIFLES WERE SOLD AFTER POSTING.
Great video! Having the possibility to get a pre 1964 production in great condions and a current production what would you get of the two?
The pre-64 if Nostalgia is important. A new model 70 if its just a tool to get a job done.
Hi , great informative video as usual , thank you !
What do you think about the model 70 classic stainless ?
Thank you from France !
I think they are very nice rifles.
Nice video. Spot on about availability. I ordered one in 416 Rem Mag about a year ago. My dealer said at the time that it could be up to two years in getting filled. I’m hoping they do another run soon.
There was a big rifle run that flooded retailers at the beginning of 2023. Those were gone within a month or two. Remember, the big retailers like Cabellas, Scheels, and Sportmans Warehouse are going to get their orders filled first. Get put on the "notification list" for all the big retailers.
LINKS REMOVED BECAUSE RIFLES WERE SOLD AFTER POSTING.
Thanks for a great video. I was wondering if you could "Lott" the 458WM M70. Regards from Zimbabwe
Yes you can. Very easy job for a gunsmith.
Nice to know. Now I have to have one 😂 I have the Super Express in 458 lott.. I don't trust the push feed. I grew up with a FN .375 h&h with a beautiful mauser action.. fantastic rifle. Never let me down and never had any issues. Winchester were stupid to make "big game" rifles with push feed.
Two things would have to be changed besides the chambering. The magazine box needs to be replaced or the spacer removed and the follower will need to be replaced with the longer one.
Fantastic. Thank you, as always.
I've got a model 70 Sportster Boss in 25-06 i like it a lot it's a great gun
Great video, DD.
Loved the video!! Heading to Africa 6/10/24!!
Good hunting!
Great video
Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x40 on Talley rings fits this rifle, just.
If you can get proper eye relief at 10-power with this rifle and a VX5 2-10x40, with Talley Lighweight rings; you are the only person i've met to accomplish that without a rail or extended front base. Have you tried to shoot it on 10-power (where you need 3.7" of eye relief)? The real-estate on that front tube is very small.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 it was the screw lock detachable rings on their steel bases.
I can’t recall specifically the eye relief on 10x zoom but I remember the tube fit, just. I don’t explicitly recall eye relief being an issue but it was a few years ago - I could be wrong
I have the Model 70 Alaskan in 375 H@H.. I prefer it over the Safari as it is a little lighter and easier to swing and handle…….
But the Alaskan is a less robust rifle than the Safari....The Safari Express is built for dangerous game cartridges, the Alaskan is not.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 My Win 70 Alaskan 375h@h would have to argue with you about that……..
@@williamfeldner9356 I own 4 Alaskans. They don't have double recoil lugs, heavy barrels, high-quality Express sights, or barrel bands. The 458 Win Safari Express is only 5oz heavier than the Alaskan.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I do so enjoy your Utube channel….. but I do prefer my 375 Alaskan…….. it does handle for me much better than the Safari…… I am unaware of any Alaskans in 375 that have broken stocks ……. 375 H@H is the minimum dangerous game cartridge in most of Africa….. and it gives me a little more confidence in elk country where I hunt in the Montana, Idaho and Wyoming area as the grizzly population boomed in recent years and human/grizzly bears encounters have increased….. but you are correct for the real big dangerous game cartridges the Safari is the better build rifle…….it is just not the better handling rifle for ME…..
I am not recoil sensitive by any means, but recoil does have an effect on accuracy and I think that the 416 or 458 would maybe be too much for me trying to thread a bullet.
I absolutely love my Winchester Model 70 Alaskan in 375 H@H with Talley Mounts and a Leupold VX 3 HD 1.5-5X Heavy Duplex Custom Shop built Scope……….
PS looking at the time stamp it appears you are an early riser….. have a great day Dog of the Desert……..🏜️
@@williamfeldner9356I was lucky enough to snag one of the limited edition M70 Alaskan Stainless/Laminate models while they were being made in South Carolina. It's chambered in 375H&H and is one of my favorite guns. I took it to Africa in 2016 and my wife used it for 2 weeks and stole it from me. But for anything over 375, the Safari Express is a much better platform.
Even if I needed one, I couldn't afford it, and that's a shame...at least I didn't call you Rob this time DD. lol😁
They were actually pretty reasonable before Covid but rifles took a big jump just like everything else did and are also a lot harder to find now. I have an Express in 375 and a Weatherby Mark 5 stainless in 375 and sure glad I got them before Covid because they are up about 30-40% since then if you can even find one.
I'm sorry you can't save to buy one. Regardless, it is the cheapest "ready out of the box" Safari rifle made.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 No doubt sir, that's the one thing I left out of my comment. I watched the whole video, you did a beautiful job bedding the new stock. I could save for the rifle, but the African hunt, no way. Nevertheless, I've happily watched every video you've made on the subject.
@@mikemelina7395I’m pretty positive I’ll never be able to make it to Africa no matter how bad I want too. But I was able two aquire some dangerous game calibers. I just use them on whitetail and hogs. It’s great practice anyways in case I do ever make it to Africa before I die. I would steer you towards an interarms mark X commercial mauser dangerous game rifle, but unfortunately they have also skyrocketed in price since Covid. I have one chambered in a 416 Taylor Improved and I love that rifle as much as my model 70 in 416 Remington. Might be worth a shot to look and see if you can find some in good price range I believe the only dangerous game calibers they offer are 375 H&H and 458 win mag, they also have 9.3x62.
The only brand of rifle I know where people who own a given model will sometimes boast they will never shoot it.
Weren't there a problem with headspacing??
Not with the FN rifles.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 And they were produced from??
Actually, I've never heard of headspacing issues with any of the Winchester Safari rifles. This comes from years of experience in a shop, and a lifetime of actual ownership and use.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Good to hear, thx for the answer.
Keep the vids coming 👍
That slip up at the end hopefully tells that you'll cover a Sako next.
🐶 Desert Dog, I Am Going To Be Rebarreling My Pre-64 Model 70 30-06 and Would Like To Know What Barrel Recomendations You Have For It?
Depends on budget and intended use. For a beater rifle; Green Mountain and ER shaw will be acceeptable. For a great hunting rifle; Pac-Nor, Douglas, and Hart will make fine barrels. For compettion; Bartlein, Krieger, Brux, and Shilen are popular.
I finally sourced a SE in 375 H&H 2 or 3 years ago. Have not scoped it or shot it seriously yet, mainly just trying 2-3 ptarmigan loads in it. Roundball and 38-55 lead slugs. What are your thoughts re Leupold QD mounts on a rifle of this type? Thanks, Dog!
I assume you mean "QR Mounts". I am not a fan of the old-school QR mount/ring system; and although people do use them, i've seen many problems with them on heavy-recoil rifles. I hate rings with only 1 screw per side. The "QRW Rings" are a much better than the old "QR" system (but these rings ALWAYS need lapping). Try to stick with steel rings and bases.
Just read model 70s used to be chf but are now button rifled.
I’d think the South Carolina made guns are CHF and anything else is button
@@K-bob_45 I bet they were made by FN in Columbia. They have a chf machine there. Sometimes their barrels get sold to psa. I tend to want chf. I’ve seen too many Tikkas and Ruger Americans run circles around button rifled barrels such as Bergara.
@@mr.mr.3301 tikkas are no joke. I haven’t had the same experiences with Ruger. Of my model 70’s I can’t tell one or the other being dramatically better. They all shoot good when I feed them right.
Why does it matter. The Safari Express shoots sub-MOA in 458 Win Mag! What more are you looking for?
@@Nick-wn1xw I've won matches with Shilen botton-rifled barrels. People read internet forums too much. A properly stress-relieved button-rifled barrel will win matches.
What’s the difference between the Alaskan iand the Safari Xpress?
The Alaskan has a sporter profile barrel (vs heavy barrel), a fore-end mounted sling stud (vs a barrel band), only 1 recoil lug (vs dual recoil lugs), a minimalist rear sight (vs express sight). The safari express is a more robustly-built rifle better suited for bigger cartridges.
Did they ever make a Safari or Safari Express in Left hand version?
The Classic Super Express and Classic Safari Express were made in left-hand versions. The modern FN Safari Express (2010-now) and all FN Model 70s are right-hand only. When the New Haven plant was shut down, they stopped making left-hand Model 70s.
I’ve been looking for a 416 Rem Mag in one of these, off and on, for a couple of years now. You don’t see them very often these days, post Covid. I think that GB prices are inflated. A couple around 3.3K. Maybe that’s what they go for now. But, I’ll admit, I don’t know what the usual MSRP is nowadays. Pre-Covid, I did.
I t took me quite awhile to find mine in 416 rem mag also. I got it when covid was still in full effect unfortunately. I believe at that time MSRP was around $1,300-$1,400. I finally found a new one on gunbroker, and by the time I won it and the shipping and taxes ended up slightly less than $2,000. Which I know I overpaid, but I’d been really looking for over a year until I finally just bit the bullet. I love the rifle, so I don’t feel bad for paying extra. Unfortunately last time I was on gunbroker a few weeks ago all the ones I saw listed were around $3,000 😳
Thanks Andrew. Yes, I remember when they were in the 1.3-1.4K range. It seems to me if you got yours at under 2K, that’s not a bad price for these days. I would easily pay around 2K, but not 3K or 3.3K. I had one of these around 10-12 yrs ago and sold it! Dumb move. I have a 416 Wby., but want a Model 70, again, as well. The Wby is not a CRF, of course, and is 2+1 for cartridge capacity, but it has power up the wazoo! I mainly have it for S&G. It’s a blast to shoot, pun intended!
Excellent video and truly appreciate your efforts. I would like to imagine it's hard to get one these new. I've had the Win.Mod. 70 Alaskan on order for 2.5 years now....ugh
Insider tip: Never order directly from a manufacturer. Rather, place yourself on the "notify when in stock" list for all the major retailers. Big retailers get their orders first. This also applies to bullets, brass, and primers. My best friend bought a Safari Express last year when there was an inventory dump to retailers.
* LINKS REMOVED BECAUSE RIFLES WERE SOLD AFTER POSTING.
I have one in 30-06. It is a great rifle. Hope you get yours.
I'd love to own one, but I am also a big fan of ruger's rifles, particularly their dangerous game guns. Perhaps all of the above lol
With the new M77 Hawkeye African, you are stuck traveling around the world with "proprietary cartridges". This takes Ruger off the list for me (plus, Model 70 quality is better).
I would love to own a Winchester Model 70. I just wished that LH versions were available - at least in current production models.
Great video, Desert Dog - thanks!
P.S. I love that $100 bill free float on the barrel! 😂
These types of videos are my favorite. Since I'm a Ruger fan, I would love to see a similar video about the different model 77 RSM rifles and the current Hawkeye African models.
Just not a fan of the M77. Sorry.
Fantastic video as always, DD. The only aesthetic part I don’t like about the Safari express is the chunky fore end of the stock.
I actually think it's relatively skinny for a dangerous game rifle. Definitely skinnier than a CZ550 or Rigby. Remember, it has to be thick enough to inlet for the second recoil lug.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 good point. I was thinking specifically of the fore end tip.
Do a video on the m70 Alaskan
I’m sorry for not emailing you. This is Scott from Wisconsin what is the difference between the Alaskan and the Safari in the model 70
The Alaskan has a sporter profile barrel (vs heavy barrel), a fore-end mounted sling stud (vs a barrel band), only 1 recoil lug (vs dual recoil lugs), a minimalist rear sight (vs express sight), and a thinner-profile monte carlo stock. The safari express is a more robustly-built rifle better suited for bigger cartridges.
Great video! I have a M70 for 30 years now and it serves me well. I would appreciate if you could provide the proper torque values for the action screws and if you now a stock maker you could recommend would be great too. Keep going.
Hey desert dog dog didnt ruger make a safari or an express?
Of course they did.
They make the African and also the Alaskan.
I always carry a couple of C-notes, to make sure my barrel is free floated. Then I use Krugerrands to check the weight of my trigger pull.
That's a lot of Troy Ounces to measure trigger pull!
Baller!
The only critique I can give this rifle, is that I wish it has a slightly longer length of pull.
A slightly bigger recoil pad, or a simple spacer will easily fix that. The LOP fits most people well, and that's all a manufacturer can hope for.
I honestly do not want a Model 70 made anywhere but the U.S. no matter what the build quality is. Glad I picked up mine when I did.
I absolutely love the American made model 70’s, but my Portuguese model 70 outshoots both New Haven made model 70’s I owned. I like em all I never owned or shot one of the ones made in South Carolina though, so no experience with those.
The FN guns are higher-quality.
My New Haven rifles look and shoot well. I am dubious of any claim of imported superiority but insist on made in U.S.A. regardless.
I believe the new rifles are superior in quality. And this is coming from someone who ones M70s of every generation.
The components are made in the US and shipped to Portugal for final assembly.