Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this bolt-action rifle for a penny-start auction, this is the Browning Alaskan Special chambered in .338 Imperial Magnum!
This Browning Alaskan Special chambered in .338 Imperial Magnum Prototype is an exceptionally rare firearm, believed to be a one-of-one example and currently the only known specimen on the open market. As a unique prototype chambered in an extremely uncommon caliber, this Alaskan Special stands out not only for its experimental nature but also for its singular rarity among Browning’s storied line of big-game rifles, making it a truly standout piece for advanced collectors and enthusiasts.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Browning
Model: Alaskan Special
Serial: 43653NY757
Caliber: .338 Imperial Magnum
Finish: Stainless Steel w/Anti-Corrosion Black Finish
Barrel Length: 24.5"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Front Blade with Adjustable Rear and Scope Rings
Stock/Grips: Textured Black Synthetic
Action: Bolt-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Browning Alaskan Special is a distinctive, historically significant bolt-action rifle that reflects Browning’s emphasis on rugged performance, elegant styling, and adaptability to harsh hunting environments. Produced by Browning Arms Company in the mid-20th century, the Alaskan Special was conceived as a premium sporting rifle designed for demanding conditions, particularly those encountered in remote, cold regions. Built on a strong, reliable bolt-action platform—most commonly associated with high-quality commercial Mauser-type actions—the rifle emphasized controlled feeding, robust extraction, and dependable function under adverse weather and field conditions. The Alaskan Special was typically chambered in powerful and practical hunting calibers suitable for large and potentially dangerous game, reinforcing its reputation as a serious hunter’s rifle rather than a lightweight sporting arm. A defining characteristic of the model was its refined yet purposeful construction, featuring a well-figured walnut stock with classic lines, checkering for secure handling, and a solid, well-balanced feel that promoted steady shooting. Metal components were finished in a deep, polished blue that underscored Browning’s commitment to craftsmanship and visual appeal. Many examples were factory-equipped with quality iron sights and drilled and tapped for scope mounting, allowing hunters to tailor the rifle to both traditional and modern sighting preferences. Though produced in relatively limited numbers compared to later mass-market rifles, the Browning Alaskan Special has become highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts for its combination of strength, elegance, and practical field utility, standing as a testament to Browning’s mid-century sporting rifle heritage and the enduring appeal of finely made bolt-action hunting rifles. The Imperial Magnum chamberings were a small family of experimental wildcat cartridges developed in the post–World War II period, generally based on large belted magnum parent cases such as the .300 H&H Magnum and similar British-derived magnum cases that offered generous powder capacity and reliable feeding. They are most commonly attributed to Roy Weatherby and his early circle of ballistic experimenters, during a time when extreme velocity, flatter trajectories, and extended effective range were the primary goals of cutting-edge rifle design. The Imperial Magnums were attempts to push bullet speed and downrange energy beyond what existing commercial cartridges could provide, especially for long-range hunting of large and dangerous game. However, these chamberings were ultimately pushed out by the rapid commercial success and refinement of Weatherby’s own standardized magnums, which offered similar or superior performance with factory support, proprietary branding, and broader rifle availability. Without standardization, factory ammunition, or widespread gunsmith adoption, the Imperial Magnum cartridges faded into obscurity—leaving behind only a handful of custom rifles that now stand as rare artifacts from a formative and experimental era in magnum cartridge development.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Model: Alaskan Special
Serial: 43653NY757
Caliber: .338 Imperial Magnum
Finish: Stainless Steel w/Anti-Corrosion Black Finish
Barrel Length: 24.5"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Front Blade with Adjustable Rear and Scope Rings
Stock/Grips: Textured Black Synthetic
Action: Bolt-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Browning Alaskan Special is a distinctive, historically significant bolt-action rifle that reflects Browning’s emphasis on rugged performance, elegant styling, and adaptability to harsh hunting environments. Produced by Browning Arms Company in the mid-20th century, the Alaskan Special was conceived as a premium sporting rifle designed for demanding conditions, particularly those encountered in remote, cold regions. Built on a strong, reliable bolt-action platform—most commonly associated with high-quality commercial Mauser-type actions—the rifle emphasized controlled feeding, robust extraction, and dependable function under adverse weather and field conditions. The Alaskan Special was typically chambered in powerful and practical hunting calibers suitable for large and potentially dangerous game, reinforcing its reputation as a serious hunter’s rifle rather than a lightweight sporting arm. A defining characteristic of the model was its refined yet purposeful construction, featuring a well-figured walnut stock with classic lines, checkering for secure handling, and a solid, well-balanced feel that promoted steady shooting. Metal components were finished in a deep, polished blue that underscored Browning’s commitment to craftsmanship and visual appeal. Many examples were factory-equipped with quality iron sights and drilled and tapped for scope mounting, allowing hunters to tailor the rifle to both traditional and modern sighting preferences. Though produced in relatively limited numbers compared to later mass-market rifles, the Browning Alaskan Special has become highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts for its combination of strength, elegance, and practical field utility, standing as a testament to Browning’s mid-century sporting rifle heritage and the enduring appeal of finely made bolt-action hunting rifles. The Imperial Magnum chamberings were a small family of experimental wildcat cartridges developed in the post–World War II period, generally based on large belted magnum parent cases such as the .300 H&H Magnum and similar British-derived magnum cases that offered generous powder capacity and reliable feeding. They are most commonly attributed to Roy Weatherby and his early circle of ballistic experimenters, during a time when extreme velocity, flatter trajectories, and extended effective range were the primary goals of cutting-edge rifle design. The Imperial Magnums were attempts to push bullet speed and downrange energy beyond what existing commercial cartridges could provide, especially for long-range hunting of large and dangerous game. However, these chamberings were ultimately pushed out by the rapid commercial success and refinement of Weatherby’s own standardized magnums, which offered similar or superior performance with factory support, proprietary branding, and broader rifle availability. Without standardization, factory ammunition, or widespread gunsmith adoption, the Imperial Magnum cartridges faded into obscurity—leaving behind only a handful of custom rifles that now stand as rare artifacts from a formative and experimental era in magnum cartridge development.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection. 
