Winchester Model 70 .22 Hornet Bolt Action Rifle with Weaver K8 Scope C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,625.00
LSB#: LSB250512SG010
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 70
Serial Number: 49443
Year of Manufacture: 1948 (Pre-64)C&R
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Magazine
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a hooded beaded blade on a raised boss. The rear sight has been removed, though its dovetail slot and screw holes remain. The rifle is topped with a period Weaver K8 riflescope. The scope is marked “Weaver K8” and has an objective bell calibrated from 50ft to 1000ft, indicating it was intended for small game or varmint hunting at variable ranges. The glass is clear and the fine reticle is intact.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The stock is a one-piece walnut with a straight comb, checkered steel buttplate, and traditional Winchester checkering on the forend and grip. The stock shows honest wear from field use, including scattered handling marks, scuffs, and a few hard rack dings. There are no major cracks or chips. The finish is thinning in high-contact areas but remains serviceable.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. There are some scattered specks of finish loss and light scuffs throughout the barrel and receiver. There are a few hard rack marks along the metal surfaces, suggesting the rifle has seen active field use, but has not been abused. The blue remains strong overall, with clear Winchester WP proof marks still visible. The bolt handle shows minor thinning. The buttplate shows heavy finish loss but remains intact and functional. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool-marked. The markings are clear.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt locks up smoothly and the safety engages properly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes the mounted Weaver K8 riflescope. No other accessories are included.
Our Assessment:
This is a 1948-manufactured pre-64 Winchester Model 70 chambered in the highly regarded .22 Hornet. Known for their fine machining and smooth actions, early Model 70s—often called “The Rifleman’s Rifle”—are prized by collectors and shooters alike. The .22 Hornet chambering adds even more appeal, being one of the less common calibers found in vintage Model 70s and ideal for small game and varmint applications.
This rifle has clearly been afield and likely accounted for more than a few prairie dogs or foxes in its time, yet it remains in very solid shape. The original bluing is strong at 95%, the bore is excellent, and the Weaver K8 scope—appropriate for the period—is a nice bonus for collectors and practical shooters alike. Though it shows honest hunting wear, this Model 70 has not been refinished or altered from its original character, with strong Winchester proofs still in place.
Whether you’re a collector looking to fill a niche in your Model 70 lineup, a shooter interested in a light-recoiling precision varminter, or simply an admirer of American bolt-action craftsmanship, this classic .22 Hornet should not be overlooked. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. Good luck on your bid. -K.F.
