Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 G7036CN .257 Roberts Bolt Action Rifle, 1957 C&R

Sold for $2130.62

Make: Winchester

Model: 70 Standard (Symbol No. G7036CN)

Serial Number: 396176

Year of Manufacture: 1957

Caliber: .257 Roberts

Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Hinged Floorplate Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U. S. OF AMERICA / —WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL—”, “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-”, and “MODEL-70 – 257 ROBERTS -”. The left side of the barrel at the receiver and the left side of the receiver at the barrel are marked with a circled “WP” proof. The left side of the receiver is marked “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-”. The right side of the receiver’s chamber ring is marked “396176”. The serial number is also hand-scribed on the bottom of the bolt body.

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade with a protective hood that is dovetailed into a textured, ramped base fixed to the front of the barrel. There is a boss at the rear of the barrel which has a dovetail currently filled with a blank. The receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled for mounting an optic (none installed). The left-rear of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled for a receiver sight (none installed).

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with semi-pistol grip, fluted Monte Carlo comb, a checkered steel buttplate and sling swivels mounted front and rear. The stock has light handling wear wtih scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. There is a repaired chip-loss at the toe. There are no cracks. The checkering is well-defined. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has wear at the heel and around the edges with some light surface oxidation and well defined checkering. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at most edges. There are a few light scratches on the bottom of the barrel toward the muzzle-end. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a safety mounted on the bolt. Pushed forwards, the safety is OFF. If pulled back all the way, it locks both the bolt and the trigger. If pulled back half-way, it blocks only the trigger. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This is a vintage pre-1964 Winchester Model 70 standard rifle manufactured in 1957 and chambered in .257 Roberts. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and the mechanics are strong. The rifle has provision for just about any kind of sighting system you would want to install, but currently only has its factory front sight. Presently, the rifle is fitted with a vintage scope. The pre-64 Winchester Model 70 actions are prized by shooters and collectors alike for their smoothness and reliability, and this one is no exception. Invented by Ned Roberts, the .257 Roberts cartridge was made from the 7mm Mauser case but necked down to .250″ or “quarter bore”. The result is a great all-around hunting cartridge that is still popular with hand-loaders today. In its condition, this rifle will make a great addition to a Model 70 collection but it should also still prove to be a great game-getter. Please see our photos and good luck!