Winchester Model 70 XTR Featherweight 270 Winchester Bolt Action Rifle 1981
SOLD FOR: $1,126.00
LSB#: LSB250601SP126
Make: Winchester
Model: 70 Featherweight
Serial Number: G1530985
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .270 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Internal Hinged Floorplate Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “—WINCHESTER– / MODEL 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT– .270 WIN – / MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL– ”. The top of the chamber ring has an ovalled “WP” proof. The left of the receiver has “WINCHESTER / —TRADE MARK—”. The right of the chamber ring is marked with the serial number, “G1530985”.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights/Optics: There is no provisions for iron sights. The top of the receiver is mounted with a Burris 3-9x scope with a fine reticle. The glass on the scope is clear. The scope is in Excellent condition. The scope comes with Butler Creek brand flip-up scope covers.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with a semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, schabel tipped forend and a red Winchester rubber buttpad. There is a leather sling attached, as well as a leather slip-on buttpad. The stock shows light signs of handling, with only very minor scratches and dings throughout. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 1/2 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Overall, the stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are only minor handling marks, but otherwise the metal is free of any notable wear or damage. The jeweling on the bolt is strong, and clear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This rifle comes with the scope mentioned above.
Our Assessment: This 1981 Winchester Model 70 XTR Featherweight chambered in .270 Winchester stands as a superb example of a transitional era sporting rifle that bridges the gap between pre-64 prestige and modern refinement. The Featherweight configuration—with its slim 22” barrel, schnabel forend, and sculpted walnut stock—offers a perfect blend of light carry weight and superb field accuracy. The .270 Winchester cartridge, originally developed by Winchester in 1925 for the Model 54, is legendary for its flat trajectory, mild recoil, and effectiveness on game ranging from pronghorn to elk.
Winchester’s XTR line from the late 1970s and early ’80s was known for high-grade fit and finish, and this example delivers. The blued finish is deep and clean, the factory checkering remains sharp, and the walnut stock retains an elegant grain and tone. This rifle is topped with a Burris 3-9x scope with Butler Creek covers and a fine reticle, offering excellent clarity and practical magnification for both short and long-range shooting.
Mechanically sound with a beautifully preserved bore and classic styling throughout, this rifle is field-ready for hunting season or ideal for someone assembling a representative set of classic American sporting arms. The .270 Win. remains a beloved chambering, and paired with the enduring appeal of the Model 70 Featherweight, this rifle offers both collector satisfaction and real-world performance in one attractive package. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
