Winchester Model 70 Pre 64

[Chris]

I just purchased a Winchester Model 70 Featherweight chambered in 308. The rifle is a pre 64 with a serial number around 259000. It has an older Leupold 3x9x40 variable mounted on it. It also came with a rifle case and 3 boxes of cheaper shells. It is a one owner rifle and in good condition. I paid $600 for the package. I have hunted with my 300 mag and 30-06 for the last 20 years. I am excited about using this rifle next season. I realize that they are all 30 caliber, but what can you tell me about this particular rifle as well as the difference in the calibers and shooting capabilities of the three calibers? I live and primarily hunt in the SW Washington jungle, but do take a week to hunt mule deer in eastern Washington and eastern Oregon each fall. Will this rifle/caliber be ok for those longer shots? How will it compare to those other calibers? All information will be appreciated. Thank you!

[superdown]

YES

[MikeWalking]

With modern quality ammo the .308 and the .30-06 are to close to argue about. The .300 will shoot a little flatter but not, I think enough to make a differance where you're shooting.

Oh and where do I get a deal like that?

[Three_Oh_Eight]

If you got a pre-64 M70 in 308 for $600, even without the scope, you might consider checking to see if its stolen!  Those rifles go for well over $1000, even in less-than-ideal condition.

There is a lot to read about the Pre-64 and there are some things you can do with the screws that bring the best accuracy.  If its a standard model with a barrel nut mounted rear sight, tighten the screw into the nut finger-tight.  Tighten the front action screw and rear action screw to about 40 pounds.  Leave the middle screw of the bottom metal finger-tight.  Don't torque that screw.  

As far as the capabilities, you're set for any kind of deer hunting in this state.  Its not as flat of a shooter past 400 yards, but 400 yards is a long way when it comes to shooting at game.  I'm a big fan of the 308.  Sure, some cartridges may be 5% flatter or hit with 10% more energy or whatever, but its all rifle-loony hair-splitting and overshadows the fact that the 308 Winchester is an EXCELLENT deer cartridge.

[carpsniperg2]

you got yourself a great rifle and a good price

[PA BEN]

I put a 180gr core-lock through a deer at 325yds w/a semi-auto 308. Went in right in front of the hind leg, quartering away and came out in front of his off side front leg. It's a good brush and open country gun.

[Chris]

Thanks for the info guys. I bought the rifle from my 91 year old grandmother. She is finally at a point where she is no longer hunting. She killed MANY great mule deer in the 50's through 80's with it. I got the 50% off grandson discount. It sounds like you guys think it will make the 350 yard eastside shot. I am excited to hunt with it. It's 4-5 inches shorter than my 300 mag and 30-06. Being shorter I am also stoked about that.

[halflife65]

Thanks for the info guys. I bought the rifle from my 91 year old grandmother. She is finally at a point where she is no longer hunting. She killed MANY great mule deer in the 50's through 80's with it. I got the 50% off grandson discount. It sounds like you guys think it will make the 350 yard eastside shot. I am excited to hunt with it. It's 4-5 inches shorter than my 300 mag and 30-06. Being shorter I am also stoked about that.

I got a pre-64 .30-06 from my grandfather awhile back.  I put a scope on it (he used iron sights) and changed the stock out so that I would ding up the original anymore.  If it still has the original on it you might consider taking it off and putting it somewhere to keep it safe.  Plus, the new one is a better designed stock and doesn't have a metal butt plate on it.

[royalbull]

gun was built in 1952 worth between $800-$900

[Huntbear]

You got an awesome deal.  Some people just have all the luck! 

[high country]

what ever you do, do not alter it.....not re-blue, change the stock, remove the sight......just keep it just as it is. a beat one is worth more then an altered one.

[Chris]

Thanks for all the feedback guys. Being a family gun I will never sell it. My daughter, who loves to hunt, will have it someday. I also have my grandfathers model 70 in 300 win mag. My plan is to keep them orriginal, but shoot and hunt with them like my grandmother and grandfather both did for 50+ years with the two rifles.