Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle 1963 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,125

WOA#: WY231028DC003

Make: Winchester

Model: 70 Featherweight

Serial Number: 566318

Year of Manufacture: 1963

Caliber: .30-06 Springfield

Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Hinged Floorplate Magazine

Markings:  The left side of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER-MODEL-70-FEATHERWEIGHT- / -TRADE MARK–MADE IN U.S.A.-WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL”. 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 “566318”. The serial number is also hand-scribed on the bottom of the bolt body.  The left side of the scope is marked “LYMAN / ALL-AMERICAN 3X / MADE IN U.S.A.”.

Barrel Length: 21.5”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade that is dovetailed into a serrated ramped base. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up u-notch with a white triangle aiming reference that is dovetailed into the barrel boss. The top of the receiver is mounted with a LYMAN All-American 3x Scope. The sight picture is clear.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with a semi-pistol grip, raised comb, and a black Pachmayr vented rubber butt pad. There are sling swivels on the belly of the buttstock and the underside of the forend. There are only a few small compression marks and drag lines.  There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well-defined with only some light to mildly worn peaks. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is very bright.  The rifling is sharp.  There are two small visible patches of corrosion that should clean up nicely.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish.  The action has some operational wear. There is some thinning on the edges of the front sight.  The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition for a Pre 64.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. There is a safety mounted on 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, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 70, affectionately known as the “Rifleman’s Rifle,” holds a prestigious place in the pantheon of American firearms. Crafted with exacting standards, the Pre-64 Model 70s are revered for their controlled round feeding, three-position safety, and robust bolt design — features that endear them to hunters and shooters worldwide. The .30-06 chambering of this particular Model 70, manufactured in 1963, offers potent performance for game at long distances, capable of delivering impressive ballistics with the reliability the Model 70 is known for.

This rifle exemplifies the golden era of Winchester craftsmanship, with a level of finish and attention to detail that has become increasingly rare in the decades since. Its year of manufacture predates the significant changes to production that occurred in 1964, which introduced cost-saving measures at the expense of some of the hand-finished aspects that made the Pre-64s so desirable. As such, it carries with it the hallmarks of a bygone age of gunmaking, from the polished action to the finely checkered walnut stock.

Collectors and shooting enthusiasts prize the Pre-64 Winchester Model 70s for their historical value as well as their performance. A rifle from this era, particularly in the venerable .30-06, is both a tangible slice of American heritage and a practical tool for the serious hunter. The 1963 Model 70 in question not only represents a high point in Winchester’s storied history but also stands as a beacon of classic design and enduring functionality. It’s a treasure for those who appreciate the blend of legacy and performance in their firearms collection.  Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!  – L.S.