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November 27, 2018
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Hello! While I do know a few things, I’m pretty green when it comes to authenticity with pre-64 Model 70 rifles. I do know that some of the more “rare” caliber offerings need to be paid close attention to, but wondering if anyone had any insight as to authenticity of this particular listing. The serial number is not readable in photos that I can see so that makes it tougher. Thanks in advance!
Cole
November 5, 2014
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Hi Cole-
IMHO M70 Featherweights in 358 WIN are not particularly “rare”, but they have been faked over the years. Usually this was done by re-boring a 308 WIN Featherweight barrel and doctoring the caliber stamp as opposed to making a new barrel from scratch.
We’ll see what other sharp eyed members think, but I don’t see any particular problem with the barrel on this one. I wouldn’t want to swear that it hasn’t been “restored” (wood and metal refinished) but maybe it’s just poor lighting. I also cannot tell if it has the “tall” 22K rear sight, none of the photo angles are sufficient to tell. It’s a shame that the S/N isn’t discernible, so I can’t check the M70 survey to see if/when it might have sold before. Most of the 358 Fwts are in the 330,000 to 360,000 range (1955).
FWIW… This is an example of a correct looking 358 WIN barrel roll mark.
Just my take,
Lou
WACA 9519; Studying Pre-64 Model 70 Winchesters
August 27, 2014
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As Lou said, “it may just be the lighting”, but the wood and metal finishes look awful dark
Don’t know if it’s significant or not, but the floor plate hinge is the only metal on the gun that shows wear
May just be the lighting/angle, but in the overhead photos the barrel does not appear to be centered in the stock
“If you can’t convince them, confuse them”
President Harry S. Truman
August 8, 2024
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From the picture. It looks to have been redone at one time. I don’t see the line on the floor plate that is just about always present. The pictures are not the best. So, I would need to have the rifle in my hands for a final opinion.Louis brings up some good points with the serial number range, and the taller 22 Winchester style site found on the Feather Weight Model with a low comb stock.
April 10, 2021
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As others said it maybe the lighting but it almost looks to me that the barrel has more of a matte finish like an earlier rust blued gun. I also agree with Bo’s assumption on the floor plate and trigger guard.
