WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT
Posted May 25, 2023
The Winchester Model 70 XTR Featherweight is a bolt-action centerfire repeating rifle manufactured by Winchester Repeating Arms. It was designed as an upgrade to the popular and reliable Model 70 rifle, and is available in a multitude of action and caliber configurations. The Featherweight, in particular, is offered in the XTR series, and is both lightweight and accurate, and is prized by hunters and recreational shooters alike.
The XTR Featherweight is a classic rifle, and its timeless styling and subtle features are sure to attract attention. The walnut stock is oil-finished, and features cut checkering for improved grip. It is rounded and contoured for comfort, and the pistol-grip cap and buttplate are nicely detailed and finished in black. A classic
and practical sling swivel stud is fitted to the bottom of the stock, and the hinged floorplate is fitted with a release catch.
The Featherweight's action is true to its name, with a short action length of just 6.5 inches. The machined steel action features three action screws for added strength and improved accuracy. The firing pin is corrosion resistant chrome-nickel-molybdenum steel, and the bolt features a coned breech for more consistent headspacing of the rounds. The trigger is adjustable, and the safety is located on the tang behind the bolt handle, allowing for easy ambidextrous operation.
The Featherweight is equipped with a twenty-four inch free floating barrel, allowing for improved accuracy over longer range shots. The barrel is fluted to reduce weight, yet still retains the classic looks of the traditional Winchester barrel. The barrel is protected by an attractive matte-blued finish, and the receiver features a drilled-and-tapped scope mount for easier scope mounting.
The XTR Featherweight uses traditional Winchester open sights. The rear sight is an adjustable Millett "ghost ring" with a removable notched blade. The front sight is a traditional blade with a protective hood.
The Featherweight's overall weight is just over six and a half pounds unloaded, making it a great choice for the traveling hunter or recreational shooter. The recoil is mild even with high-powered magnum loads, making it a pleasure to shoot for even the youngest and most inexperienced shooters. The Featherweight is available in a variety of calibers from .22-250 through .338 Win Mag, and chambers the Winchester .30-06 round as standard.
Overall, the Winchester Model 70 XTR Featherweight is an excellent rifle. It is lightweight, accurate and pleasurable to shoot. The styling is classic and timeless, and the trigger, sights and action are all of exceptional quality. It is also relatively inexpensive for a rifle of its quality and is sure to become a classic with shooters, hunters and rifle enthusiasts alike.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Very accurate and reliable.
- Dedicated short action makes for faster follow-up shots.
- Recoil is manageable due to its low weight.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other rifles in the same class.
- Can be a bit front-heavy due to the short barrel and light weight.
- Not as many aftermarket options as other popular models like the Remington 700.
Who Should Buy
The Winchester 70 XTR Featherweight is marketed as a hunting rifle, so people who intend to go hunting should consider buying this rifle. It is an accurate rifle with a classic design, so those who are looking for a rifle with these features should consider buying one. Conversely, people who are looking for something different or who do not intend to use it for hunting should look for other options.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Weight(lbs) | Length(in) | Action Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT | .270 | 6.5lbs | 43.1875 | Bolt-Action |
| MOSSBERG SILVER RESERVE A grade II | 12 GA | 6.4lbs | 45 | Over / Under |
| BROWNING X-BOLT HELL'S CANYON | .308 | 6.29lbs | 43 | Bolt-Action |
| MOSSBERG PATRIOT WALNUT STAINLESS | .270 | 6.5lbs | 43.1875 | Bolt-Action |
| WEATHERBY VANGUARD FIRST LITE | .300 Wby | 6.25lbs | 43.125 | Bolt-Action |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .30-06 SPR
•Barrel Length: 22”
•Overall Length: 41.25”
•Weight: 6.5-7 lbs
•Stock: Straight comb checkered with Monte Carlo cheekpiece
•Capacity: 4 Rounds
•Finish: Satin chrome
•Sights: adjustable semi-buckhorn rear, hooded ramp front
Popular Accessories
Rifle
- Scope: Scopes are the most popular and essential accessory for WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT Rifle owners. Popular scope brands include Vortex, Burris, Leupold, KAHLES, and Nikon.
- Bipod: Bipods are often used to provide increased stability and accuracy from the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT Rifle while shooting. Bipods designed specifically for WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT rifles are available from brands such as Harris, Versa Pod, and Monopod.
- Sling: Slings provide hands free carry and easy, comfortable transport of the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT Rifle while in the field or on the range. Popular sling brands include A.A. EMEK, Magpul, Maxpedition, and Uncle Mike’s.
- Trigger lock: Trigger locks provide an extra level of safety and security while transporting or storing the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT Rifle. Popular brands include Ade Advanced Optics and Bulldog Cases.
- Cleaning kit: Cleaning kits are essential for maintaining the condition of the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT Rifle. Popular brands include Otis Technology, Hoppe’s, and G.I. Mil-Spec.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT is remarkable. With its free-floating barrel and adjustable trigger pull, this gun is able to produce shots that are consistently tight and on target. Its adjustable trigger pull feature also allows the shooter to adjust the force needed to fire the gun, allowing less experienced shooters to fire the gun more accurately. The accuracy provided by the WINCHESTER 70 XTR FEATHERWEIGHT is such that it is capable of bringing down small game and even larger game animals with ease.
