Am I correct in believing that a Winchester Model 70 Safari Express in 458 Win Mag, of recent manufacture, can be converted to 458 Lott by rechambering, replacing the bolt stop and ejector with 375/416 length parts, and similarly replacing the magazine box or removing the 458 WM magbox spacer? Are the 458 guns otherwise identical to the 375 and 416 versions? Does it have the welded recoil lug on the barrel and the same bottom metal?

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Originally posted by akriet:
Am I correct in believing that a Winchester Model 70 Safari Express in 458 Win Mag, of recent manufacture, can be converted to 458 Lott by rechambering, replacing the bolt stop and ejector with 375/416 length parts, and similarly replacing the magazine box or removing the 458 WM magbox spacer?

Generally yes, but you may have to fiddle with the rails and ramp and the new M70's don't feed so hot from the factory, and the Lott is likely to hang up with soft noses unless adjustments are made.

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Are the 458 guns otherwise identical to the 375 and 416 versions?

The .375 has different rear hole spacing for scope bases. Other than that I have observed no difference.

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Does it have the welded recoil lug on the barrel and the same bottom metal?

No change in bottom metal.

A 458 Lott needs a recoil lug on the barrel or else your stock will split. But better to dovetail it in and use a set screw because welding is not so great for the barrel or for accuracy.

Thanks much 500grains. I imagine Winchester would sell more Lotts than Win Mags, and wonder why they don't offer them in the Safari Express?

The reason the hole spacing is different is because the rear bridge on the actions housing those 375 length cartridges has been milled rearward. This affectively removes the foreward hole and a new one has to be added. This modification is something that should be added to the above list.

Chuck