
Introduction | Step 1-Model | Step 2- Variation | Step 3- Condition | Production Information | Gun Parts Diagram | Model 70 Features | History of Winchester Rifles
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Winchester Rifles and Shotguns was established by Oliver F. Winchester on February 20, 1866. The first model produced under his name was the Model 1866 lever-action rifle .44 caliber rimfire. There had been earlier rifles using lever action including the Rocket Ball and Volition Repeater in 1848, Jennings Rifle (patent 1851), Smith and Wesson pistol, and Volcanic Repeating Arms (New Haven Arms Company and Henry Rifles). When the design was improved by B. Henry Tyler (shop foreman at the New Haven Arms Company), the .44 caliber metalic rimfire cartridge became powerful enough to compete with the single shot rifles of the day. Winchester Repeating Arms Company established itself as one of the world's leading firearms manufacturers of the world, and the subsequent rifles produced by Winchester are highly prized by collectors today. For a synopsis of Winchester gun production, click on the following link: History of Winchester Rifles
About Model 70 Winchester Rifles
The Model 70 Winchester was considered the best bolt rifle ever produced
in the United States. It is often referred to as the "Rifleman's Rifle."
It had 11 distinct models (i.e., types, styles, variations) produced, was chambered for
a diverse array of bullet calibers, and variations associated with production
date. The Collector value of these guns is high and rests mainly on
condition, variation and caliber. The fewer the guns of a certain caliber
that were produced, generally the more valuable the gun. The see how many
of each caliber were produced, click here go to the
number of guns produced. The Model 70
was produced from 1935 until Winchester closed their Connecticut factory in 2006, with approximately 700,000
Model 70 guns sold
prior to 1964. This self-appraisal course deals with all Model 70
Winchester rifles, but focuses on the pre-64
Winchesters, or those guns produced prior to 1964.
Appraisals
To determine the value of your firearm, you must first analyze it carefully.
Next, find the caliber of your rifle. The caliber is roll-stamped into the
barrel just in front of the receiver (see following picture). Enter that
caliber in the table at the right.
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Caliber markings on the side of the barrel just in front of the receiver |
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Enter the Caliber of your gun in the column to the right of this page |
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There are 11 distinct models of the Model 70 Winchester Rifle, and they vary a great deal in value. In appraising your gun, you must initially determine if you have the 'Standard model' or another type such as a 'Super Grade model.' After selecting the appropriate Model and variation of your gun, you will be easily guided to the production date and value range. Enjoy the brief 4 steps through this process.
Step 1: Determine the model type of your Model 70 Winchester firearm
Step 2: Determine the variation of your Model 70 Winchester firearm
Step 3: Determine the Condition of your firearm
Step 4: Determine the Production Date and Book Value of your Model 70 Winchester firearm
Click Here to Begin at Step 1.
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Introduction | Step 1-Model | Step 2- Variation | Step 3- Condition | Production Information | Gun Parts Diagram | Model 70 Features | History of Winchester Rifles