What records do exist leave some room for interpretation about the exact production date of any given pre-64 model 70. Most Winchester factory records for the model 70 have been lost or destroyed, which means there is less production information available for the model 70 than for most other Winchester rifles.
It is common for older features to continue to appear until existing parts were depleted, resulting in some overlap of features.Ģ Clip loading slots were retained on National Match/Target Model/Bull Gun receivers in 30-06 only.ģ From 1948 to 1949 the serial numbers of type II-2 and III-1 H&H magnum actions overlapped.Ĥ The bridge of H&H length actions was not routinely D&T for scope mounting until late 1950, well into type III production.Ī final reference point which is important for you to know regarding your rifle is the production year. Right side of bolt sleeve changed to roundedġ Serial numbers represent when the change was first introduced.
Receiver tang change from cloverleaf to rounded / taperedīolt release changed from notched to rounded Receiver tang change from cloverleaf to rounded / tapered with bridge drilled and tapped for a scope 4 Receiver bridge changed to smoothĬhanged to dogleg safety and bolt handle modified for safety clearance These refined groupings divide the pre-64 model 70 into ten sub-types GenerationĪ square, un-beveled magazine release buttonĬhanged from square magazine release button to beveledĪdded the safety retaining pin to the bolt sleeveĬhanged from carbonia charcoal blued receiver to bead blasted black oxide bluingĬlip loading slot eliminated 2. Within the three major groupings above, there is a much more refined breakdown of the model 70 which takes note of numerous minor style changes. While these three broad production periods can be a useful frame of reference to differentiate between major production eras, you will need additional information to fully understand your rifle. These rifles also have the dog-leg shaped safety lever still found on current model 70s. These rifles have a tapered oval receiver tang and a non-recessed rear bridge which is drilled and tapped for a scope. Some transition rifles have a unique paw-shaped safety lever. Also present is a distinctive flag shaped safety lever and a stepped bolt handle shaft.Ī receiver with a mix of pre-war & post-war characteristics - often a cloverleaf tang, but always a non-recessed rear bridge. Production PeriodĪ receiver featuring a cloverleaf tang, a clip-loading slot, and a recessed and roll-marked rear bridge. In Winchester parlance, these three groupings of rifles are referred to as "Type I", "Type II" and "Type III" rifles. These groups are "pre-war" and "post-war", with a small number of rifles between these two groups referred to as "transition" rifles. Pre-64 model 70s are commonly classified into one of three production groupings, framed around WWII.
This Campfire article explains how to find your rifle's place in model 70 production history.Ī factory original and all correct Type I-1 rifle from 1936 Whether you are buying parts, or just trying to understand how your rifle fits into the model 70 family of rifles, it begins with knowing when it was made. Knowing the details of when your rifle was manufactured and what production generation your rifle is from is essential knowledge for every model 70 owner.