Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 .22 Hornet Bolt Action Rifle, Weaver Scope C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,625.00
LSB#: LSB250918XX009
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 70
Serial Number: 49443 (matching bolt)
Year of Manufacture: 1942 (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 serrated ramp. The rear sight has been removed, though its dovetail slot and screw holes remain. There is a Redfield one-piece scope mount attached to the receiver. The rifle includes a period Weaver K8 riflescope (not installed.) 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 fluted comb, checkered steel buttplate, and traditional Winchester checkering on the forend and grip. The stock shows signs of old refinishing with slight pooling of finish near the floorplate housing and finish over some chipping around the forward mounting screw housing. Aside from that, the rifle shows honest wear from field use, including scattered handling marks, scuffs, and a few hard rack dings. There are a few minor chips throughout but no major cracks or chips. The finish is thinning in high-contact areas but remains serviceable.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original metal finish /refinished stock
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original metal finish. There are significant braised repairs to the magazine and magazine follower. The bolt is laser-etched with the matching serial number. There are some scattered specks of finish loss and light scuffs throughout the barrel and receiver and the finish is thinning throughout. 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 finish is worn to the white. 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. This rifle would rate in Very Good condition.
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 1942-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. The original bluing is strong at 90%, 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 and signs of refinishing on the stock, the rifle has not been 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. Please see our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids.
BF
