older gun guru's ?

[BarryG]

I have inherited a 1936 (first year made) Winchester model 70 257 Roberts. It is all original and in good shape. Not unused but in good shape for being a regulary used hunting weapon (though not for the past 30 years). It shoots good and the original scope is still sighted in. I have a couple questions-



first- is using modern shells going to be any problem (also inhereited a box of shells that was probably 30+years old which shot very well). I suspect that the +p's may not be good for it but really don't know for sure.



Second- the original scope is in good shape but my eyes are not what they used to be and it is a weaver k2. 5. The center dot covers a 6 inch bullseye and then some at 150 yards or so. Will keep the original scope but would like to mount something more powerful. Any ideas on mounting a modern scope on this old beauty?



Have been to 2 different gun shops to get info and they all talked out there rears. (One guy told me it couldn't be from 1936 since they didn't start making them until the mid fifties, the other guy said I didn't have to worry about +p shells because they didn't make them for that caliber however I just came from a store that that is all they had and I balked on buying them because of the +p marked on the box, which is why I went to the second store). I have done some research on the web and even talked to winchester who were pretty wishy washy except for giving me the date of manufacture based on the serial number. I know I need to find a quality local gunsmith/shop but until time permits thought I would ask you guys to see if you had any ideas. I love to shoot and shoot regulary but just for plinking and really don't know much about guns except how to load, aim, fire, clean and be safe of course.

 

[The patriot]

The Model 70 is a very strong action. As long as everything is in good condition (headspace etc) I wouldnt fret about the +p headstamp.

Just check the first few rounds of brass for pressure signs (flattened primers, expansion, difficult extraction etc) and go enjoy.

I'm not a gunsmith, this is just the way I'd handle it.

Eric

 

[WDaniels]

You can get the serial number off the rifle and go to the winchester web site and track when the rifle was made. Most of the rifles made in the 30's are not to hard to track. I have a pre 64 winchester model 70 gov 30-06 super grade made in the early 40's. I can't find the exact year due to the records during the war years were not kept properly.

As far as using new ammo in it, it's ok. That is a mouser(sp) action and will withstand most anything you give it. Keep the rifle in original condition including the scope. It can be classified as a period rifle and will be worth more than if you modify it and "restore" it. Go to a reputable gun dealer that deals in classics or antiques!! Think long and hard before doing anything with the rifle. That is a original pre 64 winchester and will command a nice price. Mine is period and goes for around 1800 to 2000 in the gun bible. The old box of ammo will just add to the classic-ness of the gun.

Hope this helps.

WD

 

[DLeach]

Try his place. These guys know there stuff and i believe is one the best sources for info on firearms on the net.





http://www.thehighroad.org/







Im sure they can come up with some answer for you.







Aloha