Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 .243 Win. 24” Bolt Action Rifle, MFG 1963 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,253.00
LSB#: LSB250807EM042
Make: Winchester
Model: 70
Serial Number: 580766
Year of Manufacture: 1963 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber: .243 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt-Action, hinged floorplate
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post on a serrated base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fold-up u-notch adjustable for elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: One-piece wood stock with a raised comb. The forend and semi-pistol grip are checkered. The stock shows a few scattered dings and surface scuffs. The LOP measures 13.5” from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the synthetic stock rates in Good to Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with notable verdigris buildup in the grooves. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8.5/10.
Overall Condition: The finish of the rifle rates at about 95%. There is some edge wear and marks where an optic used to be mounted. The finish shows a few minor blemishes, but nothing notable. The markings are crisp and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Sling
Our Assessment: A tout controlled-round-feed Mauser-style action, three-position safety, solid two-lug bolt with full-length extractor, and a sporter-contour 24″ barrel that balances quick handling with respectable downrange performance for the .243 chambering. The rifle presents a clean, optics-ready receiver top, conventional iron-sight footprint, and the familiar beefy bolt/receiver geometry that made the pre-1964 Model 70 a standard against which production bolt rifles were measured.
The .243 Winchester (introduced 1955) brought high-velocity, flat-shooting performance in a mild-recoil package well suited to medium-range varmint and deer work, and pairing it with the pre-64 Model 70’s controlled-feed action represents a combination prized for reliability and accuracy. The pre-64 Model 70 itself is widely regarded for its robust Mauser-style controlled feed, smooth bolt geometry, and attention to fitment prior to the 1964 production changes—attributes that help explain the model’s enduring collector and shooter appeal. C&R eligibility (1963) and the rifle’s classic action geometry make this a noteworthy mid-century sporting piece. We are no longer offering layaway. Be sure to check our detailed pictures for a better understanding of the firearm. -C.R.
