Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 .270 Win Bolt-Action Rifle, MFD 1953 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1630

LSB#: 210909BW10

Make: Winchester

Model: 70

Serial Number: 311440

Year of Manufacture: 1953

Caliber: .270 Winchester

Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Hinged Floorplate Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U. S. OF AMERICA / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-”, “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-”, and “MODEL-70 – 270 WIN-”. The left side of the barrel at the receiver and the left side of the receiver at the barrel are marked with a circled “WP” proof. The left side of the receiver is marked “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-”. The right side of the receiver’s chamber ring is marked “311440”. The serial number is also hand-scribed on the bottom of the bolt body.

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade with a protective hood dovetailed into a serrated ramped base screwed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a flip-up u-notch with a white triangle aiming reference that is dovetailed into the barrel boss. The receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled for mounting sights or optics (none included).

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece press-checkered walnut with semi-pistol grip, fluted Monte-Carlo comb, and a black checkered composite buttplate. There are sling swivels on the belly and forearm. There are clusters of moderate draglines on the left side of the buttstock, and either side of the stock under the receiver. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has moderate scuff wear at the heel and toe. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. There is light stubborn fouling in the grooves.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scuffs that dot the top of the barrel and there is light thinning on all edges of the receiver. The action shows light operational wear and there is handling wear on the bolt handle. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good-to-Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a safety mounted on the rear of the bolt. Pushed forwards, the safety is OFF. If pulled back all the way, it locks both the bolt and the trigger. If pulled back half-way, it blocks only the trigger. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used 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 made in 1953 and chambered in .270 Winchester. The rifle has a 24” barrel and a press-checkered monte-carlo stock, the bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling and no erosion. The rifle has provision for just about any kind of sights or optics you would want to install, though no sights are installed or included. The pre-64 Winchester Model 70 actions are prized by shooters and collectors alike for their smoothness and reliability, and this one is no exception. This should still make a fantastic rifle. In its condition it would also make a great addition to a Model 70 collection. Good luck and happy bidding!