WINCHESTER 70 XTR SPORTER
Posted Jun 14, 2023
One of the most beloved firearms in the world, the Winchester Model 70, has certainly stood the test of time. But, with so many modifications and variations over the years, which version reigns supreme as the best of the bunch? Well, gun enthusiasts and hunters alike may agree that the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is among the best of the best.
This version of the Winchester model 70 is highly praised for its accuracy, reliability, and functionality. This combination of features has made the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter one of the most sought-after firearms on the market, and is seen as an upgrade to the classic Model 70 line.
Design and Ergonomics
First and foremost, let's take a look at the design of the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter. This rifle has a classic bolt-action design, which ensures that it's as reliable and accurate as possible.
The stock of the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is made of high-grade walnut, with a satin finish. This ensures great strength and durability, with perfect aesthetics. It also feels great in the hand, making it comfortable to shoulder and shoot.
The Mannlicher-style stock also ensures that it's easy to move and swing, which makes it easy to track targets and maintain good accuracy. As if that weren't enough, the stock is still lightweight, even with its durable structure, making it easy to carry the rifle where you need to without much hassle.
Accuracy and Functionality
The Winchester Model 70 is already known for its accuracy, and the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter only goes further in this regard. This rifle is renowned for its three-shot minute of angle accuracy. For those who may not be familiar with this particular measure, it states that, at a given distance, the rifle can fire three shots with an accuracy of one full inch. This means you should be able to get consistent accuracy without any problem, no matter what you're firing at.
The 70 XTR Sporter also features a 22-inch barrel and a fast lock time, which ensures the rifle will be ready to fire off its next shot quickly and accurately. The barrel is rifled with a 1:10-inch twist rate. This rate ensures the bullet will get a nice, tight spin when it is fired, resulting in a nice and tight spin when it travels through the air.
This twist rate also helps ensure that you'll get more accuracy from the rifle, due to the extra stability it provides. In addition to this, the barrel is outfitted with a LGM Trued Muzzle, which ensures that the rifle's barrel is perfectly straight. This is a nice feature because it helps ensure that you'll get consistent accuracy throughout the entire barrel, no matter what type of ammunition you're using.
Trigger
The Winchester 70 XTR Sporter also features a very smooth and light trigger. In fact, the trigger pull weight can easily be adjusted from three to four pounds. This allows you to adjust your trigger pull weight to fit your own shooting style and the type of ammunition you're shooting.
Overall, the trigger pull weight on the 70 XTR Sporter is quite good, and provides a nice, crisp break.
Reliability
As with all Winchester Model 70 rifles, the 70 XTR Sporter is as reliable as can be. This is due to the rifle's sturdy construction and its reliable parts. In other words, after firing off a few hundred rounds, you can expect it to still be in perfect working condition.
This is why the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is a great choice for hunters and target shooters alike. This rifle has proven itself to be reliable and durable in the field, and you can trust it to deliver the accuracy and performance you need for years to come.
Price and Conclusion
When it comes to pricing, the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter isn't the cheapest rifle on the market. But, you get what you pay for when it comes to firearms, and this particular rifle is certainly worth the extra money.
In conclusion, it's easy to see why the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is so popular among hunters, target shooters, and gun enthusiasts. This rifle offers reliability, accuracy, and a great design that's sure to please anyone who wields it. Plus, with its adjustable trigger pull weight, you can easily customize the rifle to fit your shooting style. And, considering the price, the Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is certainly a great investment for anyone in the market for a reliable, high-quality rifle.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-High quality materials and craftsmanship that is built to last
-Smooth action with no binding or creeps
-Accurate and reliable with its Controlled Round Feed (CRF) feature
-Wide range of custom features available
-Compact size makes it easy to carry and maneuver
-Competitively priced
Cons:
-Heavy compared to other rifles in its class
-Does not come in an adjustable trigger option
-For the price, the stock and sights are basic and may need to be upgraded
-Loads via a standard box magazine which reduces the amount of shots you can take before unloading and reloading
Who Should Buy
The Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is an ideal rifle for hunters and target shooters. It is designed to be lightweight and accurate, making it an excellent choice for long-range shooting. Because this rifle is so specialized, it is not recommended for anyone who does not have a firm grasp on firearms safety and maintenance. In addition, it is not suitable for those who are not proficient in shooting techniques.
Comparisons
| Feature | Winchester 70 XTR Sporter | Bergara B-14 Ridge | Steyr Pro Hunter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .30-378 Weatherby Magnum | 6.5 PRC | .30-06 Sprgfld |
| Magazine | None | 3+1 | 4+1 |
| Barrel Len | 24” | 24" | 23.6" |
| Action | Bolt | Bolt | Bolt |
| Stock | Walnut | Woodland Camo Molded with Mini-Chassis Stock | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued | Matte Blued | Blued |
| Hand | Right Hand | Right Hand | Right Hand |
Features / Specs
• Type: Bolt-Action
• Calibers Available: .30-06, .270 Winchester, .280 Remington
• Capacity: 3+1 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 22"
• Stock: Walnut
• Feature Options: Sling swivel studs, recoil pad, hooded ramp front sight, quick detach scope bases
• Overall Length: 41.25”
• Weight: 6.75 lb
Popular Accessories
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- Scope: A quality scope is a must-have accessory for any Winchester 70 XTR Sporter. Scopes can enhance accuracy and make hitting targets easier.
- Bipod: The XTR Sporter comes with a pre-drilled and tapped receiver that makes attaching a quality bipod easy. When shooting from a fixed position, a bipod can enhance accuracy and provide more stability.
- Sling: A quality sling gives you the convenience of carrying your rifle for short distances and also offers stabilization for long-range situation. A standard sling will work, but a loop sling specifically designed for the XTR Sporter ensures a perfect fit.
- Flashlight: A tactical flashlight mounted to the sides of the stock of the XTR Sporter adds a unique custom look. A flashlight also helps improve visibility in low-light hunting situations.
- Extras: Upgrade parts such as a trigger, a muzzle brake, or different stock choices can provide the shooter with more options and help customize the rifle to better suit the user's preferences.
Accuracy
The Winchester 70 XTR Sporter is considered to be one of the most accurate bolt-action rifles ever made. It features a controlled round feed, Mauser Square Bridge action, and a top of the line sporting stock with a 22-inch free floated, button-rifled stainless steel barrel. The XTR Sporter also has a very efficient three-position adjustable trigger allowing users precision trigger pulls. With all of these features combined, the XTR Sporter provides users with exceptional accuracy for a lifetime of reliable shooting.
