Winchester Model 70 Featherweight .243 Win 22″ Bolt Action Rifle MFD 1961
SOLD FOR: $1,050.00
LSB#: WY250314FH012
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 70 Featherweight
Serial Number: 512143
Year of Manufacture: 1961
Caliber: .243 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-”, “MODEL 70 – FEATHERWEIGHT – .243 WIN.” and “MADE IN U.S.A / WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL”. The right rear of the barrel is marked with a Winchester proof stamp. The left side of the receiver is marked “WINCHESTER / TRADE MARK”. The serial number “512143” is stamped on the right side of the receiver. The scope is marked “REDFIELD 6X”.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to a serrated ramp that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a folding adjustable U-notch dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is mounted with a Redfield 6x scope, likely manufactured in 1961. The scope features a standard crosshair reticle. The glass is clear with minor internal dust and the scope is in Very Good condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut with a semi-pistol grip, fluted raised comb, checkered polymer buttplate, and sling swivel studs front and rear. There are scattered minor handling marks throughout, with a few faint compression marks on the left side of the forearm and slight finish thinning around high contact areas. The checkering is sharp and clean. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal magazine, 5-round capacity, functioning correctly.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is light visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling wear with some thinning along the floorplate, bolt knob, and edges of the receiver. There are a few small scuffs on the barrel near the front sight and light edge wear along the trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a Redfield 6x scope mounted to the receiver.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 70 is often referred to as the “Rifleman’s Rifle,” and the Featherweight variant combines the legendary accuracy and reliability of the Model 70 with a lighter profile more suitable for mountain and field carry. This particular rifle, made in 1961, hails from the sought-after Pre-64 era, prized for its controlled round feed action and superior build quality.
Chambered in .243 Winchester, this rifle offers an excellent balance of flat shooting and manageable recoil, making it ideal for varmint hunting, medium game, or long-range target work. The factory iron sights are well-executed, but the included Redfield 6x scope brings added precision and vintage appeal, aligning perfectly with the rifle’s production era.
For collectors and hunters alike, this Pre-64 Featherweight is an outstanding example of Winchester’s golden age. Whether you’re searching for a capable hunting companion or a quality piece of American firearms history, this Model 70 is an excellent and highly practical choice. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
