Make: Winchester Repeating Arms Company, customized by Al Biesen

Model: 70

Serial Number: 393902

Year of Manufacture: 1957

Caliber/Gauge: .243 Winchester

Action Type: Bolt action, hinged floorplate magazine

Barrel Length: 24"

Sights/Optics: There is no provision for iron sights on the barrel. Buriss two-piece bases and 1” rings are installed with a Leupold Vari-X III 3.5-10x scope with duplex reticle mounted atop the receiver. the scope is in Very Good condition and the glass is clear. The left-rear of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled for a receiver sight.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle features a custom hand-checkered walnut stock by Al Biesen, with a shadow-line cheekpiece, capped pistol grip, and ebony forend tip. The stock shows beautiful figure with fine checkering at the pistol grip, forearm, and butt plate. Handling wear is minimal, with only light marks and impressions scattered in the finish. There are no cracks or chips. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the plate. The plate has minor wear around the edges with well defined checkering. The stock rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished at time of customization.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright. There is some scattered minor erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The balance of finish shows light wear with a few scuffs from handling and storage. The screw heads are sharp and unmarred. The markings on the barrel have been mostly removed and now only include the factory Winchester Proof marking and the Al Biesen marking on top of the barrel. There is fine jeweling on the bolt, magazine follower, and shoulder of the receiver. Additionally, the bolt knob has been finely checkered for a sure grip. Overall, this firearm rates in Fine condition as customized.

Mechanics: The action and safety function correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the installed scope.

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 70, introduced in 1936, quickly became known as the “Rifleman’s Rifle.” The pre-’64 versions are especially revered for their controlled-round-feed actions, hand-fitted quality, and durability. This particular example, manufactured in 1957, has been masterfully customized by the legendary Al Biesen, one of the most respected custom rifle makers of the 20th century.

Biesen’s rifles are known for their elegant lines, hand-cut checkering, sculpted cheekpieces, and impeccable wood-to-metal fit. This rifle exemplifies his craftsmanship, chambered in the versatile .243 Winchester with a hand-checkered walnut stock and fine custom details. It remains not just a collectible but a highly functional custom hunting rifle.

For collectors and hunters alike, this rifle combines the legendary pre-’64 Winchester action with the artistry of Al Biesen’s shop, offering both historical value and field-ready performance.