Posted: 5/1/2007 8:22:30 PM EDT
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I was bouncing the idea of hunting big game in Alaska in my head, so I did some searching. Some outfitter recommend stainless steel guns because of the rain and snow. However, a barrel maker (Krieger) recommend against using 416 stainless steel barrel in sub-zero temperature. Now I imagine if I do go to Alaska the gun would stay in case with some moisture protection until I go out in the field. Wood stock I can understand warping in wet condition, but I don't think chromium steel would rust that fast. And laminated stock I think would work just as well as synthetic stock. What say you Alaskan regulars? |
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I have a stainless Model 70 in .375 H&H with synthetic stock. I used Brownells Teflon Moly on it to add additional corrosion and rust protection and to dull the finish. That was in '96. We had unseasonably warm weather, so the finish was never really put to the test. Today, I'd do the same thing, but with KG Gunkote. |
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My Alaska rifle is a Weatherby Alaskan model in .375 H&H mag. It has a synthetic stock & is all stainless with a muzzel nrake & open sites as well as a scope with quick detach rings. One thing about Alaskan weather is if you don't like what you got, don't worry it will be different in 15 minutes! |
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There really isn't alot of hunting going on in sub zero temps unless you are going for 'bou up north during the winter. I would not worry too much about stainless if that is your preference. I am not much of a hunter, but I have never had a problem with a properly oiled down blued gun in the woods. |
I hunt regularly in the Great State of Alaska. I've been hunting here for years and my weapon of choice is a BLUED & WALNUT stock, Ruger M77 Mark II in 338 Win Mag. See the photo below. I took this 44 inch Alaska Bull Moose in September of 2006. Been using the same rifle for about 6 years. It looks almost like new. You take care of your weapon and it will take care of you. While in the field, I clean and oil my weapon each and every eveining while sitting around the camp fire. 
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I have heard of stainless steel guns shattering upon being fired at sub zero temps. I dont know if it is true, but I have heard or it. "416 stainless suffers a significant loss of toughness at sub-zero temperatures." Quote from www.noveskerifleworks.com 1/2 down the page under TEMPREATURE RESISTANCE. |