Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 .30-06 SPRG Bolt Action Rifle 1954 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,450.00

WOA#: WY240516MM002

Make: Winchester

Model: 70

Serial Number: 287485

Year of Manufacture: 1954, C&R

Caliber: .30-06 SPRG

Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Internal 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-”, “-MODEL-70-30-06 SPRG.-”.  The left side of the receiver and chamber are marked with WP proofs.

Barrel Length: 24”.

Sights / Optics: The rear sight dovetail is filled.  The top of the receiver is mounted with a LEUPOLD 3X9 VARI-X II scope with fine crosshair reticle.  The sight picture is clear.  The body of the scope has turned a plum hue. The scope rates in Excellent condition.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stock is a one-piece checkered wood with a rosewood capped semi-pistol grip, straight comb, Pachmayr White Line ventilated rubber buttpad, rosewood tipped forend, and sling swivels front and rear. There are some light scratches on the stock. The checkering is well defined with lightly worn peaks. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few scattered compression lines.  The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Overall, the stock is in Excellent condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal 4+1 magazine.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. The left side of the bore about half an inch from the muzzle has some pitting. The rest of the bore appears free of any pitting.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are scratches around the muzzle.  There is some minor thinning on the leading edges.  There are a few scratches on the bolt handle. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Fine condition for C&R.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. The safety is mounted at the back of the bolt on the right side. It has three positions. Pushed all the way forwards, the safety is off and ready to fire. In the middle position, the safety blocks the trigger, but allows the bolt to be opened for loading and unloading. In the rear position, the safety blocks the trigger and the bolt. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its attached scope as mentioned above and a Leather Hunter Sling in Excellent condition.

Our Assessment: This Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 in .30-06 Springfield is a legendary bolt-action rifle, often referred to as “The Rifleman’s Rifle.” Manufactured by Winchester Repeating Arms Company, this particular model is highly esteemed for its exceptional craftsmanship, reliability, and historical significance. The “Pre-64” designation refers to rifles produced before 1964, a period considered the golden era of Winchester’s manufacturing due to the high quality and attention to detail during that time.

Chambered in .30-06 Springfield, the Pre-64 Model 70 offers versatility and power, making it suitable for a wide range of hunting applications, from deer to larger game. The .30-06 cartridge is renowned for its long-range accuracy and effective stopping power, contributing to the rifle’s widespread popularity among hunters and marksmen.

The Pre-64 Model 70 features a controlled round feed (CRF) mechanism, which provides reliable feeding and extraction, even in adverse conditions. This design is highly valued for its dependability, especially in high-stress hunting situations. The rifle is also equipped with a solid walnut stock, characterized by its classic lines and fine checkering, offering both aesthetic appeal and a comfortable grip.

Additional features include a robust, free-floating barrel for enhanced accuracy and a three-position safety, allowing for safe handling and easy operation. The quality of materials and meticulous craftsmanship make the Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 a sought-after firearm, both as a collector’s item and a reliable hunting rifle. Its historical importance and performance capabilities ensure that it remains a cherished piece among firearm enthusiasts. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.