Uneven throat in Model 70

[elktrout]

I just bought a new Model 70 (South Carolina build). According to the prior owner, he put a bore scope to it and found that the rifling was not perfectly even in the throat. In other words, the bullet would be contacting rifling unevenly. How much of a problem is this? The gun is new and under warranty. Should I ask Winchester to re-barrel it? If the seller had not told me this (which he did not have to do), I would likely have no idea it was problem. Please advise your thoughts.

 

[Welding Rod]

How does it shoot?

 

[elktrout]

I have not shot it yet.

 

[stringnut]

See how it shoots. Interpeting what you see with borescope can be difficult. I use one at times at work and there is a definite learning curve. The previous owner may or may not being seeing something. Depth perception is especially tricky.

 

[jmr40]

Shoot it first.

 

[amflyer]

I would cast the chamber if you are concerned about it at all. Would be a good way to bring the issue (if there is one) to Winchester's attention too.

 

[amflyer]

Another, less accurate way to check, would be to seat a bullet to excessive OAL (to contact the rifling.) If it engages the rifling equally (judging by the marks on the bullet) then you can feel a bit more at rest regarding the situation.

 

[elktrout]

Thanks for the input. I called Winchester customer service today and spoke to a tech who advised me not to shoot it and send to them immediately for examination. Before I do that, I will try amflyer's suggestion with an overlength cartridge and see how the rifling marks on the bullet show.