Info on Winchester 70 "Ranger" .30-06?

[HMMurdock]

I am aware it is not a high $$$ "sniper rifle", but I recently accquired a nice little bolt action on trade and I am wondering what you gents can tell me about her?

She is a Winchester Model 70 in .30-06, marked "Winchester Model 70 cal 30-06 SPRG" on the left side of the barrel and "Ranger" written in cursive on the right. It has fixed front sight and a flip up rear sight on a quaint little wood stock. Very smooth.

What is there to know about this? Is this simply an economy line Mod 70? What do I need to know about it if I go to replace the stock? Is it Pre- or Post-64 extractor? Did I even remember that correctly?

Thanks in advance.

 

[jlmurphy]

The Ranger is an economy version of the Model 70. Mine came with a beech stock,a blind magazine, and simple sights. They were made in the late 60's to the 70's, I am guessing. They are a post '64 push feed, long action and the action is identical to any other Model 70. I have since placed mine a HS Precision stock with a 6.5 mm barrel and have long since forgotten that it started as a Ranger.

 

[USSR]

HMMurdock,

As jlmurphy said, economy model using a long action pushfeed action. My rifle started life just like yours, and look at it now.

Don

 

[HMMurdock]

Jesus Christo! That is a gorgeous rifle. So, despite being an economy Winchester, it's safe to say it is a capable target/hunting rifle with a lot of customizing potential?

 

[USSR]

Yes, safe to say.

Don

 

[jlmurphy]

The action is identical to any other Model 70. Despite the hype of the pre '64 Winchester controlled round feed ( which is a great feature in a military/ dangerous game rifle), the push feed action actually gives the case head more support and centers the firing pin better. Most precision tactical actions are push feed and use the same type of extractor and ejector. Build away!

 

[HMMurdock]

Outstanding! I've been checking out Boyd's Laminate Stocks, but they specify they are for "Winchester 70 short actions"... I'm assuming this is not a short action?

Thanks for the info, you guys are the best!

 

[Avenger29]

.30-06 is a long-action cartridge.
On the other hand, .308 is a short-action cartridge.

 

[HMMurdock]

Great, thanks for everything!!!