The Model 70 through the years

[thomis]

I can't afford a pre-64 Model 70. I have a new SC made Featherweight that is outstanding. I want to add another one to my collection but I don't want to make a mistake. What are the "bad years" of the production run? Or perhaps better put, what years should I avoid? I'm going to look at a used one this afternoon, a Model 70 in.243 Winchester, wood stock, blued heavy varmint bbl. They are asking $650, supposedly in great shape. The first thing I plan to do is write the serial # down and do some research. Interested in your thoughts.

 

[jmr40]

The pre WW-2 versions as a rule are the most sought after. The rifles made after the war up until 1963 used to command a premium, and some still try to get it, but most should not be worth much more than any other 50-60 year old rifle in similar condition. Rare configurations and calibers are the exception, just as with any other gun. A common 30-06 made after the war just isn't that valuable anymore. Actually around $650 is about right for a post war common pre-64 in decent shape.

From 1964-1992 there were no CRF rifles made, and any pre 64 brought a premium just to get CRF during those years. After CRF was brought back with the "Classic" series made from 1992-2006 value gradually declined on common pre-64's. Winchester closed their New Haven factory in 2006. Guns made during the last 2-4 years can occasionally have QC issues, but are still a good gun. In fact in my opinion these are the best of the Winchesters.

The pushfeed rifles made 1964-2006 are generally good guns, but do not bring much money. $250-$350 depending on condition. Undervalued and a great buy for someone looking for a good hunting rifle for a good price. Especially those made after about 1980.

There is no good way to look up Winchester SN's.

An asking price of $650 is too much for any PF. If it is one of the Classics with CRF made in New Haven it would interest me a lot at that price. The early guns are generally better. If it has a 6 digit SN It is probably an early gun (1992-2000). A 7 digit SN means it was made in the last years. Most of those are fine too, but a few got out the door that should not have. I'd look real close at a Classic with 7 digit SN.

 

[desidog]

I agree with JMR40 that you want CRF. However, you can't just boil it down to year of production; especially with an overbore chambering like .243win, I'd be looking at the throat erosion, after the external fit and finish.

 

[Skylerbone]

When you say another to add to your "collection" do you mean you want another rifle or do you mean you're hoping for something semi-collectible? In other words, what are your plans for this purchase?

My sole PF late '80s Plain Jane Winchester is a standout for accuracy as a sporter, I paid $319 used in very good condition. Not collectible, just a solid hunter but the nicer Winchesters of that same era don't command $650 round here unless you shop Gander Mountain and even they mark them down eventually. Just remember they made more than one, no harm in bargaining or passing it up.

 

[DRYHUMOR]

Those mid to late 90s Classics usually had pretty spiffy wood. The Compact Classics are a bit harder to find, and are sized right for an all day carry.

7X57/7mm Mauser, 6.5X55, .280, seem to carry a bit more value. And, they are all good shooting calibers.

Good luck with your search, be warned though; they are kind of addictive...

 

[NickEllis]

Buy one of the new models since acquired by FN. They are some of the best ever made.

 

[joed]

Heck, I've had model 70's from the 70's, 80's, 90's, 2005 and 2013. Never had a bad one.

Models other than PF bring higher prices and I own 1. My opinion is it's over rated. My best model 70 is a Stealth produced in 2005 and purchased just after it was announced the facility was closing. It's a heavy rifle but darn can it shoot.

I'll pretty much buy any model 70 as long as it's in decent shape.

 

[Hangingrock]

If my record keeping is correct February 24th of 1997 I acquired my M-70 Classic L.H. 30-06. The photo is 3 shot groups @ 200yds with Remington factory ammunition. I have no complaints in the quality and workmanship of the rifle.

 

[Gordon]

51-53 IMHO are the best pre 64 Model 70s. They have the later 3 poistion safeties, are tapped normally for mounts AND the bolts are forged on piece. The 1 piece bolts are found with less frequency thru 1955. The controlled round feed XTRs of the 70s and 80s and early 90s are nice. The Mass. Made Classics are nice , generally. The SC made guns are OK, after they got the line going good.