Old vs. New Winchester M-70's

[semperfi71]

I do not own, and never have, a Pre-64 M70. I have seen a lot of them though.

I own a 1986 M70 Featherweight in .25-06. The stock alone, in my opinion, is the best looking factory stock ever put on a bolt-action rifle.

And for me it is a perfect fit. And the "push-feed" bolt is reliable enough for any non-dangerous game.

I do find myself wanting a new M70 with the "Pre-64" extractor in either the Featherweight or Classic version. In either .270, 7mm Mag, .30-06, or .300 Winchester Mag.

I think the newer Winchester M70's will compete very well with the older Pre-64s...with one exception. The Pre-64 is a legend for all time in bolt action sporting rifles.

 

[johngalt]

I have 2 M70's: a mid 80's XTR in .223 and a new sporter in 30'06. Both are excellent shooters. The mid 80's version is prettier - it has a beautiful high gloss blue finish, the wood is prettier. The new one is more of a matte finish. The stock on the older is thicker around the grip. The older is a little heavier.

Both have are excellent, I've never shot a pre '64, so I can't compare to that.

 

[wbraswell]

Like some who have posted, I too, am ignorant of the pleasures of the Pre-64 Model 70. I do have a Fwt. Classic .30'06 from around 1990 that I can find no problem with. The lines, finish, wood, and action are flawless to me.

 

[bushmaster1313]

But it shows one thing that I don't like about pre-'64's: unless you get a Super Grade that has one, there's no pistol grip cap. I like that touch.

You're right.
No grip cap.
This is going right into the trash heap.
Wouldn't want my grip capped guns to get any bad ideas

 

[wraco]

I own 14 pre-64 Model 70's in assorted calibers so have no need to buy one of the new ones. If I couldn't find a caliber I needed in a pre-64 M 70 I would seriously consider and most likely buy one of the new ones. But for now, I have all I need in the old ones.

The old ones were machined and built by Craftsmen that gave the rifle it's soul. Sadly those days are long gone, with so much else, so we are fortunate, in a way, to be able to still buy the proven design. The computer made new ones can duplicate the design but can't give it heart and soul. Possibly a trip to the Wizard of Oz may help.

Here's a few . . . Happy New Year . . Rod

 

[gizamo]

Only recently acquired my 1st Pre 64. Man, it is a well fitted gun. Can't say it will be my last. I get it, now...