I’ve been looking for a “decent” Model 70 in .243 that I plan on hunting with. Can anyone give me an opinion on this rifle that popped-up on gunbroker? https://www.gunbroker.com/item/860839232
Also, just found this one on gunsinternational: https://www.gunsinternational.com/guns-for-sale-online/rifles/winchester-rifles-model-70-pre-64/winchester-pre-64-mod-70-fwt-243.cfm?gun_id=101458500
Thanks in advance!
Ethan
Bill Hanzel said
For what it’s worth I like the perry county one better.It Has that look that I like, and if that aluminum butt is original, to me it would make it even nicer. I am sure someone will be able to confirm if it was, I don’t remember what models or timeframe they put them on.
Thanks Bill. I like that one too. But I’m still trying to learn as much as possible about pre64 70s and I’m hesitant to do anything until I learn more about these guns. I don’t know if these prices are reasonable, whether they’re original, etc. This website has been a godsend for that.
Ethan
Others on this forum are better equipped to address your concerns of authenticity than am I.
I can say that in my opinion those prices are not outrageous assuming the guns are genuine.
I paid around $1300 for a pre 64 in 220 Swift in similar condition several years ago and was happy to get it.
Nevada Paul
Life Member NRA
Both guns have original factory finishes on wood and metal. Fwts with aluminum plates are generally more desirable and usually command a premium. The Perry County gun has the correct front sight hood (+ or – $50.00). Perry County’s 3 day inspection and return policy is a plus. Prices are in line with internet offerings. Personally, I‘d favor the Perry County gun. Ymmv.
Hi Ethan-
The 1955 gun Greg Weiand’s got (Perry County) is at bit rougher but in the generally more desirable configuration (aluminum butt and hand checkered). The 1961 Kansas gun is early enough to have hand checkering, but has the plastic butt. I’d question the wood finish on that one (maybe too smooth/shiny) but would have to have it in-hand to offer an opinion. Sights appear correct on both. They should have a Lyman 16A rear sight and Win 103C (0.360″ tall) front.
As for prices, for some reason the FWT style and 243 WIN chambering is a popular combination. While I wouldn’t expect to pay more than $1000-1100 for a FWT in 30-06 SPRG or 308 WIN in less than perfect condition, the 243 WIN chambering brings a couple hundred more. The aluminum butt also adds a hundred or so. In perfect condition, a 243 WIN FWT with aluminum butt is maybe a $1750 gun. This one’s not perfect by any means, but it might be a good choice if you’re going to hunt with it.
I also think Greg Weiand is generally pretty honest and knows a fair amount about M70s, so I wouldn;t expect trouble if you needed to return a gun. I’ve not had any personal dealings with the gentleman from Kansas.
Best of luck!!!
Lou
WACA 9519; Studying Pre-64 Model 70 Winchesters
steve004 said
I see the Perry County rifle sold – did you get it? I know if I were planning to hunt with a rifle, I would not be looking for a rifle in better condition than that one.
Yes, I bought it, but I haven’t received it yet. I agree with you, I don’t want one in any better condition than that to hunt with.
Ethan
[email protected] said
I’ve never heard of Old West Snake Oil #2. I’ll give it a try. I was inclined to use some Tung oil, if I used anything at all. But the description on the Snake Oil website sounds promising. Thanks for the suggestion!
I know Old West Snake Oil is very popular among Savage collectors – has been for many years.
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