1951 Winchester Model 70

[abjure]

Hi,

1951 Winchester Model 70

I inherited this rifle and I'm curious about how much it might be worth.

[jeremyro]

$8-900 probably

[big blaze]

Because of the year of manufacture and condition. I would say it's worth between $700 to $750. The scope and rings are outdated and pretty much worthless.

[RNE228]

Curious why scope is outdated? Leupold is good glass. They still make that scope.

The scope and rings are outdated and pretty much worthless.

[big blaze]

Curious why scope is outdated? Leupold is good glass. They still make that scope.

I agree it has really good glass and was probably made in the USA. But when it comes to using it in the field for hunting shots will present themselves at random ranges and you need the ability to quickly dial your elevation turret or have a BDC reticle. Having a scope with a duplex reticle and capped turrets that require a tool to dial up elevation will cost you time that may let your target getaway. However if your shooting paper at the range the time it takes you to take the shot is not critical.

But this is just my opinion do what works best for your situation.

[G-Man WC]

Caliber?

-g

[44fred]

Have it checked out by a gunsmith, put on another stock to protect the beautiful old wood and go hunting. Just my $.02. If you don't care about the stock, don't replace it. Knowing pre '64 70's have collectors value, I don't think it applies in these cases. A relative thought you would enjoy it...go forth and do so.
For those that say the scope is useless....really? Your pretty nieve to think that. Sure we have made improvements over the years but to think "useless" is just plain, well, not very useful.

[SloChicken]

I agree it has really good glass and was probably made in the USA. But when it comes to using it in the field for hunting shots will present themselves at random ranges and you need the ability to quickly dial your elevation turret or have a BDC reticle. Having a scope with a duplex reticle and capped turrets that require a tool to dial up elevation will cost you time that may let your target getaway. However if your shooting paper at the range the time it takes you to take the shot is not critical.

But this is just my opinion do what works best for your situation.

... because the hunting world hasn't been hunting for over 100 years with duplex, simple crosshairs, or post reticles.

Know your weapon, learn your holdovers and windage. Clicks are not necessary, and slower than holdover/Kentucky windage.

I have hunted for close to 40 years using basic duplex reticle scopes far more than my mil-dot scopes.

As a matter of fact, I have a 50+ year old Weaver K4 on my Marlin chambered in 35rem and it has done fine over the years. Not the best scope in the world, but plenty sturdy enough and there is much to be said with period appropriate.

Something cool about a Bison hunt using an old Sharps with tang sights for instance.

The Indian, not the arrow ... All day long.

[edgerly779]

If you restock let me know thay stock alone original is worth 200 bucks. Helps if you put caliber. 800-1200 depending on caliber maybe more if .257 roberts. I have the same rifle model same year in .257 roberts I wish I had not restocked and lost the old stock in 1986.

[edgerly779]

Oh Oh missing front sight and hood and rear sight thats minus 100 bucks for someone who wants original for collector value.

[2761377]

LOL- elevation turret and BDC on a hunting rifle.

a much more useful technology is a laser rangefinder. coupled with a proper zero, duplex reticle and a real understanding of the external ballistics of the cartridge.

if you think you need BDC, the shot is too far. it's hunting, not combat.

[abjure]

Thanks for all the replies.

The caliber is .270

[rdfact]

Check out http://www.simpsonltd.com
Click the What's New link on the top left.
They have several Model 70's added today ranging in price from $1795 to $3150.

[Toxic Shock]

I have nearly the exact same rifle! A 1951 model 70 in 30-06. I've got the same stock, leupold scope, recoil pad, even the same sling. It is an excellent choice as a hunting setup. I've spent decades hunting deer and feral pigs with this rifle. As for price? If you want to sell it, ask whatever you choose. If you want to go hunting, it's priceless! You won't find a better hunting rig at any price.
I laughed when I read the hog wash about the scope not having enough knobs and dials. Obviously that was written by an arm chair sportsman. In an average hunting situation, the game might only present itself for a few seconds. It's nice when you can approach game undetected, and take time for your shot, but this doesn't always happen. Also, the average hunting shot is usually at 100 yards or less. Skill from practice will outweigh fancy gizmos every time. My suggestion is to get in some range time to become acquainted with your rifle, and then take it to the field to hunt some game.

[dfletcher]

Thanks for all the replies.

The caliber is .270

It would be worthwhile to replace those small parts, including the rear sight too. Originals are available and not very expensive at Numrich Arms. While I disagree with the "useless" description regarding scope and mounts (the scope is fine, the mounts are no different than any other modern mount) they probably don't add much value to the rifle.

I would separate action from stock & give the rifle a good cleaning, nothing abrasive, no stripping. Hoppes #9 and oil. Amazing the gunk & dirt that comes off an old rifle. I just bought a 1952 rifle that looked clean and neat, but it works and looks better after a clean up.