Pre 64 M1894?

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Slamfire

Slamfire

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What is the difference between a pre 64 M1894 and a post 64 M1894?

Now I know most of the Winchester product line was revamped in 1964, but I thought nothing happened to the M1894.

But now I see folks stating that they have a "pre 64" M1894, and wanting a premium for the thing.
 
Post 64 = A whole lot more roll-pins and stamped sheet-metal parts.

Wood is not as good, or sometimes, not even real walnut.

Chrome-moly receivers cannot be easily re-blued unless your refinisher knows the secret.

They got better again in the last years of production, but still not the same as the old ones!

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rcmodel
 
Pre-64s have been going at a premium ever since 1965...really.

There are several distinct evolutions of the post-64, some much better than others. My own controversial nod for best user would be an angle eject (AE) that was pre-safety (just a few years of those made). For old time walnut and steel appeal, though, the pre-64s are best - and especially the pre-WWII rifles.
 
Receiver material was changed in 1964 to a process that would not blue. It had to have a plating applied, and then the plating was blued. The material process was used till about the mid-80s when the 94 receivers were again made of conventional blued steel. Refinishing a Model 94 from '86 on should be no different than any other carbon steel.
Denis
 
Thanks for the replies.

I am sticking with my Marlins unless I happen to get a great deal on a M1894.
 
I have noticed that many post '64 guns did not have the bottom of the receiver rounded. My '40 s vintage m94 carries a lot better than many of the newer ones I've handled.
 
Same here on my '51 vs my newer versions. That was another later change.
Denis
 
I have a pre-64 (one of the last made, either late 63 or early 64) that is still a virgin. It sits in the back of the safe in its unfired pristine condition, getting lightly oiled every so often. Does anyone have a thought as to what it might be worth?
 
Years ago I bought one in that range because it was made the year I was born. I paid $400 for it then which was exorbitant. Today I would guess double that for a unfired pre-64 in perfect shape.
 
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