It has been about two weeks since I’ve done any gun crankery, so I think the cycle has come around again. Today, let’s talk about a subject that is close to my heart, and that certain people are probably tired of hearing me go on about: the pre-1964 Winchester.
Target Suite covers the pre-64 Model 94 versus the post-64 Model 94.
My own Model 94 is a 1963. I only have one of those.
“WINCHESTER 70 ‘PRE-‘64’: what’s the BIG deal?”
“WINCHESTER MODEL 70: Past & Present Rifles”.
And finally: “Winchester Model 70 Post 64 Review”.
I’m lucky enough to have temporary custody of three Model 70 rifles: one in .270 Winchester that appears to be from 1951, one in .30-06 that seems to be from 1937, and one in .308 that, as best as I (and the guy at Cabela’s) can tell was early 1964 production.
(I haven’t written off for history letters on any of these: the dates are based on the serial number tables in Roger Rule’s The Rifleman’s Rifle (affiliate link), a book I recommend if you have any interest in the Model 70. Yes, I know, the price is enough to give you the leaping fantods, but I think it’s a great book. And not just because I would get a small kickback if you bought it.)