Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight 308 Win 22” Bolt Action Rifle C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,247.00

LSB#: LSB251203TW005

Make: Winchester

Model: 70 Featherweight

Serial Number: 279933

Year of Manufacture: 1954 C&R

Caliber: .308 Winchester

Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “–WINCHESTER– / –TRADE MARK– / MODEL-70-FEATHERWEIGHT- / –MADE IN U.S.A.– WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL– 308 Win–”. The left side of the receiver is marked “WINCHESTER / –TRADE MARK–”. The right side of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The left side of the chamber and receiver are marked with a circled “WP” proof mark. The serial number on the bolt matches.

Barrel Length: 22”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up U-notch sight with a white triangle aiming reference, dovetailed to the barrel. The left side of the receiver is drilled and tapped for a receiver sight. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount. There is a Nickel Marburg/L 2.5×52 scope mounted in Redfield mounts. We cannot guarantee the functionality of optics. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a semi-pistol grip, fluted raised comb, alloy buttplate, and sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are scattered handling marks, compression dents and a few scratches. There are no cracks or chips. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. There is very little fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10. 

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. There are light handling marks and a few scratches. There is light wear on the bolt knob. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the 3-position safety. 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: Scope as described above. 

Our Assessment: Manufactured in 1954, this Pre 64 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight reflects the mid century refinement of one of America’s most respected bolt action sporting rifles. Serial number 279933 falls squarely within the controlled round feed era, retaining the forged receiver, coned breech, and full length claw extractor that defined the Model 70’s reputation. The Featherweight configuration, introduced to provide a lighter, more responsive field rifle, features a 22 inch barrel chambered in .308 Winchester. Introduced in 1952, the .308 Winchester quickly earned favor for its efficiency and practical performance in a short action format. The barrel and receiver carry correct Winchester roll marks and matching circled WP proofs, and the bolt is serial numbered to the rifle. 

This rifle retains approximately 95 percent of its original blued finish, showing only light handling marks, minor scratches, and light wear on the bolt knob. The markings remain clear and legible. The one piece checkered walnut Featherweight stock with semi pistol grip, fluted raised comb, alloy buttplate, and sling rings shows scattered handling marks and compression dents but no cracks or chips, rating Very Good overall. The length of pull measures 13 1/2 inches. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, no erosion, and minimal fouling, rating 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion.

Mechanically, the action functions correctly and the three position safety operates as intended. The rifle is equipped with factory style open sights and is currently fitted with a Nickel Marburg L 2.5×52 scope in Redfield mounts, though optic function cannot be guaranteed. The Featherweight’s reduced contour barrel and balanced stock geometry made it particularly well suited to carrying afield, and in .308 Winchester it remains a practical and historically significant chambering within the Model 70 lineage. This 1954 Pre 64 Featherweight stands as a well preserved example of Winchester’s classic sporting rifle era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF