WINCHESTER M70
Posted May 25, 2023
The Winchester Model 70 is widely regarded as one of if not the best bolt-action rifles ever produced. It has earned the nickname “The Rifleman’s Rifle” due to its superior accuracy, reliable action, and timeless design. The rifle has been in production for almost 90 years and has served as an integral part of American shooters’ arsenal for generations. Now let's take a closer look at this timeless classic.
First and foremost, the Model 70 is an incredibly accurate rifle. It has become the platform of choice for long-range shooters and hunters alike. The accuracy of the Model 70 is aided by its controlled round feed action. The cartridges are fed directly from the magazine into the chamber, eliminating the possibility of double feeds. The round feeding action also protects the bullet’s berdan primer, ensuring proper extraction and allowing the rifle to feed consistently even when chambered with various calibers.
The action is further aided by the two-stage trigger system, which allows the shooter to adjust both the weight and the crispness of the trigger pull to suit their individual preferences. It also helps reduce erratic shots that can occur with harder or excessively light triggers. The trigger system further allows for consistent and precise shot placement as the shooter can adjust trigger pull weights for minute differences in pressure. This makes the Model 70 extremely accurate in skilled hands.
The bolt on a Model 70 is robust and features three lugs that lock into the action when the bolt is closed. The lugs are designed to evenly distribute the pressure of firing, ensuring even and consistent extraction. The large bolt handle provides a comfortable grip and allows for smooth operation. A plunger ejector further ensures that cartridges are quickly and efficiently ejected without any excessive force. The manual safety is well-designed and is easily actuated.
The Model 70 features a strong receiver that is machined from forged steel. This approach gives the rifle impeccable durability and strength, making it an ideal platform for a variety of applications. The steel also provides a rigid foundation for mounting various scopes and other accessories. The Model 70 is also designed with an open-top receiver and a flat-bottomed stock, making bedding the rifle much easier. This enhances accuracy and allows for precise tuning of the action.
The Winchester Model 70 offers a variety of stock options. It is available with a wide range of wood stocks, including walnut, maple, and birch. The wood stocks are finished to an exceptionally high standard and feature checkering on the grip and forend, enhancing the shooter’s grip for maximum accuracy. Synthetic stocks are also available, in both standard and custom configurations, which provide a strong and durable platform for a variety of applications.
The Model 70 is also available with a variety of barrel options. The standard models include a 22-inch light barrel, a 24-inch sporter barrel, and a medium-heavy 26-inch magnum barrel. All of these barrels are button-rifled, giving the shooter superior accuracy regardless of the barrel size or caliber choice. Custom barrels, such as fluted, sporter, heavy barrel, and fluted sporter heavy barrel are also available.
In conclusion, the Winchester Model 70 is an iconic rifle that has been produced for almost 90 years. It has withstood the test of time and remains one of the most reliable and accurate bolt-action rifles on the market. With its controlled round feed action, two-stage trigger system, robust bolt, strong receiver, and variety of stock and barrel options, this rifle will continue to serve shooters for years to come. If you are in the market for a versatile and reliable bolt-action rifle, the Winchester Model 70 is the obvious choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Accurate and dependable
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Available in various calibers
• Durable and highly reliable action
• Offers a variety of configurations
• High-quality construction
Cons:
• Heavy, making it not ideal for hunting
• Expensive
• May require additional upgrades for accuracy
• Not as suitable for beginner shooters
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is interested in owning a quality firearm should consider buying a Winchester M70. The gun is well-built, reliable, and has a timeless appeal. People who are looking for a good hunting gun should definitely consider the M70. However, those who are unfamiliar with firearms or are new to hunting should look for other guns in their price range that are more user-friendly and easier to operate.
Comparisons
| Winchester Model 70 | Model A | Model B | Model C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .30-06 | .280 | 7mm Mag |
| Action Type | Bolt | Lever | Bolt |
| Barrel Length | 23" | 22" | 24" |
| Stock Type | Walnut | Wood | Synthetic |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2950 FPS | 2860 FPS | 3100 FPS |
Features / Specs
• Bolt-action repeating rifle
• Manufactured by Winchester Repeating Arms
• Chambered for short action cartridges from .223 Rem to .338 Win Mag
• Steel action & detachable magazine
• 5-round, 4-round or 3-round capacity
• Three stock options: classic walnut, synthetic, and camouflage
• Barrel lengths from 20" (50.8 cm) to 24" (61 cm)
• Adjustable trigger
• Recommended for hunting & target shooting
Popular Accessories
- Scope Rings.
- Mounts & Bases.
- Recoil Pads.
- Trigger Upgrades.
- Cheek Rest.
- Stock Spacer.
- Bolt Knob Assembly.
- Stock Spacers.
- Slings & Swivels.
- Magazine Extensions.
Accuracy
The Winchester M70 is known for its reliability and accuracy. It has a reputation for excellent trigger pull and flying straight shot after shot, making it particularly desirable for hunters and target shooters. Its cold hammer-forged barrel is lapped for superior accuracy and weighs as little as 3.85 lbs, making it perfect for longer use sessions. The adjustable cheek pad and buttstock on the Winchester M70 allows for personal fit, which has traditionally contributed to its accuracy. The specially-designed recoil pad makes the gun more comfortable to shoot, further aiding its accuracy. The tight lock-up and three-rings-of-steel system that hold cartridges securely within the chamber also adds to the gun’s accuracy. All things considered, the Winchester M70 is known for its exceptional accuracy, making it a fantastic choice for hunting and target shooting.
