Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Standard .338 Win. Magnum Bolt Rifle, 1959 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2275
WOA#: WY230928MY003
Make: Winchester
Model: 70
Serial Number: 466104
Year of Manufacture: 1959
Caliber: .338 Winchester Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Hinged Floorplate Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “–MADE IN U.S.A.– / WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL—”, “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-”, and “MODEL-70 –338 WIN. MAGNUM-”. 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 “466104”. The serial number is also hand-scribed on the bottom of the bolt body.
Barrel Length: 25”
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 drilled and tapped for mounting a rear sight (none installed). The left side of the receiver has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes for a side mounted optic (not included).
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with a semi-pistol grip, raised comb,, and an red Winchester butt pad. There are sling swivels on the belly of the buttstock and the underside of the forend. There is light crazing in the finish throughout. There are only a few small compression marks. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well-defined. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttpad and 12.75” to the end of the wood. The pad shows darkening from age and remains soft. Overall, the stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is very bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The action has minor operational wear. There is some thinning on the edges of the front sight hood. There is some faint corrosion on top of the receiver just forward of the charging handle. The screw heads are sharp 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 .338 Winchester Magnum chambering of this particular Model 70, manufactured in 1959, 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 powerful .338 Win Mag caliber, is both a tangible slice of American heritage and a practical tool for the serious hunter. The 1959 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.
