The Winchester Repeating Arms Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro

Branded the “Rifleman’s Rifle,” the Winchester’s Model 70 has been on the must-have list of hunters since its debut in 1936. Designed by legendary firearm engineer James E. “Jim” Nichols, Winchester Repeating Arms’ Model 70 set a precedent for precision, reliability, and stand-out craftsmanship. Engineered to give big-game hunters a distinct in-the-field advantage, design features such as controlled round feed, a three-position safety, and more were emphasized. 

Like many rifles, shotguns, and handguns that have withstood the test of time, the Model 70 has undergone countless modern advancements, but Winchester Repeating Arms has always maintained a defined focus to never stray from the classic look that appeals to so many. 

For 2026, that “classic look” gets classier - enter the Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro. The standout feature of this handsome bolt-action is the dark brown claro maple stock that is highlighted by contrasting dark mineral streaks and finished with black fore-end and grip caps. One glance and you’ll realize that the Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro demands attention.

The pre-64 action (found on Winchester Model 70s produced before 1964) features a smooth, dual-lug bolt that provides positive lockup and contributes to the rifle’s pinpoint accuracy. An “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” action design, the pre-64 remains a benchmark for quality in the bolt-action category. The reliable controlled round feed bolt uses a claw-type extractor to secure the rim of the cartridge and control it from the magazine to the chamber to the blade-type ejector. This equates to smooth, fast loading and reliable ejection.

The barreled action is finished in a dark blued finish and, when coupled with the craftsmanship of the AAA claro walnut stock, showcases remarkable fit and finish. As good as this bolt-action looks, it’s a crime to keep it locked away in a gun safe. It will help you dominate on every big-game adventure you embark on.  

The Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro is available in the following calibers:

• 243 Win - 22-inch barrel
• 6.5 Creedmoor - 22-inch barrel
• 308 Win - 22-inch barrel
• 6.5 PRC - 24-inch barrel
• 6.8 Western - 24-inch barrel
• 270 Win - 24-inch barrel
• 30-06 Sprg - 24-inch barrel
• 264 Win Mag - 26-inch barrel
• 7MM Rem Mag - 26-inch barrel
• 300 Win Mag - 26-inch barrel

The Three-Position Safety, a common feature of Model 70s with a pre-64 action, serves multiple purposes that benefit the shooter. In the full-rear position, the safety locks the bolt, preventing the rifle from being fired. When the safety is pushed fully forward, the rifle is ready to go bang, but the most unique position is the middle position (Controlled Feed Position), which lets the bolt operate while the safety is engaged. This allows the shooter to load and unload cartridges without worry of accidentally firing the rifle.

The free-floating barrel with recessed target crown boosts accuracy, and the M.O.A. (Minute of Angle) Trigger is a top-end trigger that feels more like a custom make than a factory one. The trigger allows for a customizable pull weight and ensures a no-creep, ultra-crisp break, helping shooters, especially those who tend to jab the trigger during the moment of truth, build confidence. Engineered to support long-range shooting, the perfectly curved M.O.A. Trigger is a trademark of Model 70 bolt-action rifles. 

Another must-mention feature is the Pachmayr Decelerator Recoil Pad. Designed with advanced materials that effectively absorb and dissipate recoil energy, the Pachmayer is ideal for high-caliber rifles that produce increased recoil energy. By mitigating the effects of recoil in a pad that conforms to the shooter’s shoulder, bolt-action goers can maintain focus, which leads to increased shot-to-shot consistency. 

Naturally, Winchester Repeating Arms had nostalgia in mind when they created the Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro. The shadowline cheekpiece and finely checkered stock jump out at you, and the polished, deeply-blued steel make the Model 70 Super Grade AAA Claro the ideal bolt-action for that once-in-a-lifetime hunt and a lifetime hunting partner that is ready to help you fill the freezer no matter where your hunting dreams take you.