Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight 243 Win 22” Bolt Action Rifle
SOLD FOR: $2,181.00
LSB#: LSB251016KS122
Make: Winchester
Model: 70 Featherweight
Serial Number: 329873
Year of Manufacture: 1955
Caliber: .243 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– 243 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 is largely worn off from operation
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. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount.
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″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock has been refinished. There are spots where sanding has altered the dimensions of the stock, most notably at the barrel channel.There are scattered scratches and compression dents that have been finished over. Overall, the stock rates in Good condition for a refinish.
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 90% of its original metal finish. There is handling wear on the outside from field use. There are scratches and handling marks throughout. The bolt knob is worn and has minor corrosion staining. There are mount marks from scope use. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are toolmarked but serviceable. This rifle shows evidence of being hunted and carried but not heavily shot. Overall, this rifle rates in Good to 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: Box
Our Assessment: This pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight dates to 1955 and represents one of the most sought-after configurations of Winchester’s flagship bolt-action rifle. The Featherweight variant was introduced to provide hunters with a lighter, better-balanced alternative to the standard Model 70, and it quickly earned a reputation for excellent handling in the field. Built during the height of Winchester’s New Haven craftsmanship, this example reflects the qualities that led the Model 70 to be known as “The Rifleman’s Rifle,” combining controlled-round feed reliability with refined sporting proportions.
Chambered in .243 Winchester, this rifle is paired with a cartridge that had only recently been introduced in the mid-1950s and was rapidly gaining favor for its flat trajectory, mild recoil, and versatility on varmints and deer-sized game. The 22-inch barrel remains in strong condition, with a bright bore, sharp rifling, no erosion, and minimal fouling, rating a solid 9 out of 10. The rifle retains its factory iron sights, including the hooded front blade and flip-up rear sight with white triangle reference, along with receiver and scope-mount provisions typical of a hunting rifle intended for adaptable use.
Overall condition reflects honest field use and later stock refinishing. Approximately 90 percent of the original metal finish remains, with scratches, handling marks, and wear consistent with being carried afield rather than extensively fired. The bolt knob shows wear and light corrosion staining, and there are marks from prior scope mounting, while the metal markings remain clear and legible. The walnut stock has been refinished and shows areas of altered dimensions from sanding, particularly along the barrel channel, along with finished-over dents and scratches, placing it in good condition for a refinish. Mechanically, the action functions correctly and the three-position safety operates as intended. This rifle stands as a well-used but appealing example of a mid-1950s pre-64 Model 70 Featherweight, offering classic Winchester handling and a desirable early .243 Winchester chambering. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck on your bids! MF
