Custom Engraved Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 24″ .375 H&H Bolt Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,799.00
LSB#: 240117BG057
Make: Winchester
Model: Custom Model 70
Serial#: 442793
Year of Manufacture: 1959
Caliber/Gauge: .375 Holland & Holland Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Internal Magazine
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade in-line dovetailed to a textured, ramped base fixed to the front of the barrel. A quarter-rib has been installed at the rear of the barrel with a fixed “V”-notch marked “50” and a folding “V”-notch marked “100”, each with a vertical gold aiming reference dovetailed to the rib. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped with two-piece scope bases installed. The left-rear of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled for a receiver sight (none present).
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered select walnut with ebony nosecap, capped pistol grip, straight comb with shadow-line cheekpiece, steel buttplate with a trapdoor over storage for two cartridges (none present) and a sling plate inlaid to the belly (there is another sling mount fixed to the barrel forward of the forend). The rear face of the stock, under the buttplate, is stamped “1988 / DECKER”. The stock has a few scattered minor marks. There are a couple of more notable marks on the bottom of the cheekpiece toward the front. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP is 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has minor wear. Overall, the stock is in Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued, Gold Trim
Finish Originality: Refinished at time of engraving. There is no visible serial marking on the bolt.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is erosion but there is a little stubborn copper fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains about 96% of its finish. The action shows minor operational wear. There are a few scattered light scuffs and handling marks. The extractor collar has a weld-repair. The screw heads are tool marked with usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, the rifle is in Very Good-Fine condition as customized.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a weld-repair on the extractor collar. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is a vintage pre-1964 Winchester Model 70 rifle that has been beautifully customized. With a new barrel chambered for .375 H&H Magnum, a gorgeous custom walnut stock and beautiful engraving including gold bands on the barrel, molded gold water buffalo on the floorplate and an antelope on the trigger guard. As much a work of art as it is a great safari rifle, this will make a great addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
