I just purchased a Winchester M-70 Safari Express in .416 rem mag and I was wondering what I might need to do to make it a reliable dangerous game rifle. I will be using this rifle for buf,hippo,and Lion. I already plan on putting a leupold vari x III 1.5-5X on it with Qrw mounts and rings. Also I am considering putting a synthetic stock on it what makes are recomended? I like synthetics because I do not want to worry about babying a working rifle.

McMillan.

You might also consider getting the scope base screw holes opened up to 8-40.

Have a good gunsmith go through it. It is a great rifle action, but Winchester has quality control issues at times. A dab of silver solder might help keep the iron sights from flying off.

The 416 Rem Mag is a great cartridge. Enjoy.
JCN

I have exactly the same rifle. I prefer 700 for accuracy jobs, but I wanted a Model 70 for a DGR. You need to endure the crossbolts don't come loose. I use mine with a wood stock; I love synthetic on accuracy rifles, but I like wood on heavy rifles.

My first scope was 1.75-6x Leupold. One lens came loose on it. It wears a 2.5x now.

Whatever stock you choose, make sure the action (to include the front barrel mounted recoil lug) is bedded properly so both lugs transfer recoil; mine came from the factory with a poor glass bedding - the factory trigger can be tuned, search the gunsmithing or big bore forum for a link to a "how to" thread. Also, consider replacing the factory claw extractor with a spring steel unit.
Your choice of the vari x3 1.5 x 5 Leupold is a good one (my 416 is awaiting this same scope) - if you identify and locate Leupold QRW bases, please post the part number as I have been unable to find a rear base that fits (the screw holes are very close together for the rear mount on this rifle) - and the suggestion to drill / tap to 8x40 thread is also a good one. Talley mounts / rings are the best, I may opt to obtain the QD set up instead of the Leupold QRW.
The factory front sight is difficult for me to see well so I am trying to find a replacement, possibly a red fiber optic unit; the rear is satisfactory for me at this time.
I have read various posts concerning feed issues with this rifle, mine feeds quite well and seems to get "smoother" the more I shoot it. Some folks say that a DGR should feed empties to be completely reliable, mine will not do so at this time, may need to send to the gun doctor for tuning.
As far as stocks, I plan to keep my factory wood stock and find a Hogue overmolded for dragging through the alders after the local moose population in another week or so - one more item - if you don't already reload, you may want to consider doing so as the 416 remington is not "cheap" ammo and you can fine tune the ammo to your particular rifle. good luck - KMule