POTD: States have State Rifles? – Pre 64 Winchester Model 70
Sam.S 10.01.24
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Winchester Model 70 hit the market in 1936, and hunters knew right away it was something special. Built on the bones of the Model 54 and taking cues from the Mauser 98, it earned the nickname “The Rifleman’s Rifle” – and for good reason. Ask any old-timer about the pre-1964 Model 70s and you’ll likely hear a wistful sigh. These rifles were built like tanks, with controlled round feeding and machined steel parts that just worked, hunt after hunt. The Model 70 has changed hands and homes over the years. Production moved from New Haven to South Carolina, and now to Portugal. But its reputation hasn’t budged – Alaska even made the pre-1964 version their official state firearm in 2014. Whether you’re a collector or a hunter who wants a rifle that’ll outlast you, the Model 70 still holds its own. It’s not just a piece of hunting history – it’s a reminder of when things were built to last.
“Manufactured in 1952. Hooded ramp front sight, folding leaf adjustable rear sight and Leupold M8-4x scope with Weaver mounts. Standard Winchester markings with the factory proof on the barrel and receiver at the breech and “-SUPER GRADE-” on the hinged floor plate. Polished bolt numbered to the gun, late type safety and solid bolt knob. The high comb pistol grip stock has multi-point checkering, cheekpiece, ebony forend tip, hard rubber factory grip cap, checkered steel buttplate and leather sling with quick release sling swivels.”
Lot 1750: Winchester 70 Rifle 30-06 Springfield – Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Super Grade Bolt Action Rifle with Scope. (n.d.-bj). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved October 1, 2024, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/58/1750/winchester-70-rifle-3006-springfield.
