#16 • Extremely Rare 303 Savage Standard Weight Pre-64 Model 70 Winchester
Part of Premier Gun Auction (live auction by Linkous Auction Group)
High bid $5,700.00
Status: No sale
Winchester Pre-64 Model 70 – .303 Savage – Extremely Rare Standard Weight (1949 Production) This Winchester Model 70, serial number 129296, is an extraordinarily rare pre-64 standard weight rifle chambered in .303 Savage. Produced in 1949, this unique configuration represents one of the most seldom-seen chamberings in the Model 70 lineup, making it a highly sought-after rifle among serious Winchester collectors. The rifle is fitted with a 24-inch barrel, dated December 1949, with a bright, shiny bore and sharp rifling. The barrel retains its excellent original factory bluing, showing only the lightest signs of handling, and bears a clear Winchester barrel address. It is fitted with a hooded front sight and an adjustable buckhorn rear sight, both in very good condition. The receiver is dated 1949, with a matte black finish and sharp Winchester markings. The bolt action cycles smoothly, and the rifle features a Type III three-position safety, located on the right side behind the bolt handle. The receiver is factory drilled and tapped on the top for optics. Both the receiver and bolt carry matching serial numbers, underscoring its originality. The steel trapdoor floorplate and trigger guard retain very nice original finish, with only faint silvering on the edges. The factory walnut stock remains in excellent condition, featuring crisp checkering on the forearm and pistol grip, a beautiful patina, and the original factory gloss finish. The stock is capped with a checkered steel buttplate, also in excellent condition, and the length of pull remains the original 13 ½ inches. Factory sling swivels are present and intact. This rifle has been meticulously maintained and remains in exceptional condition for its age. The .303 Savage chambering in the Model 70 is extremely scarce, elevating this rifle’s status as a highly collectible piece. Rarely encountered and preserved with great care, it would be a remarkable addition to any advanced Winchester collection. FFL Status: Curio & Relic (C&R)