66 model 70 .300 win mag opinions???

i bought a 1966 model 70 in .300 win mag.

i'd like some opinions on the gun itself, the difference/performance between mine and pre-64, good scope choice and bullet weights for moose. i'm leaning towards 200 grains.
any other input is appreciated as well.

thanks,

I have '68 model 70 in 308win that shoots dime size groups with my handloads.The action is smooth as butter and if I had to give up all but one of my rifles,id keep my model 70.

There's nothing inherently wrong with the "Post 64 Action".

Winchester was looking for ways to cut costs and decided to eliminate the claw extractor due to the added machining costs. Instead of boosting profits it dramatically impacted sales in a negative way and they pushed then for more cost cutting measures and then developed some problems with inconsistencies that resulted in inaccurate firearms. It was about business not about any inherent flaw in the action's design.

If it shoots well for you that's all that matters.

I own a pile of model 70's and the fact I won't own one that does not have the claw extractor is a matter of aesthetics alone. To me it's just not a M-70 without it.

thanks for the replies on the quality of a 66 m70.

what would be a good scope to use? it has an el cheapo on it now and upgrading the optics is definitely on the list. i was told that see through ring mounts wouldn't be a good choice because it has too much firepower. i like the idea of see through in case something happens to the scope while hunting but if it's not feasible then i'm ok with that too.

I have a 66ish '06 and is certainly one of my go to guns that will always perform as expected. This is my only push feed to boot.

As far as scope and mounting... Where are you talking about? I have hunted moose in alders where I don't need a scope to mountains (sheep country) that may require at least a 600yd shot.

As a general rule of thumb, never use see through mounts

For optics go for the best you can afford. Vortex Viper PST, Leupold VXIII are good scopes for the budget minded guy and the sky is the limit above that.

Stick with 30mm tubes and 50mm or larger objectives.

A variable up to 10x will do anything you want on medium and larger game to 600yds, and considerably farther if you have a good shooting rig with the right guy behind it.

Most of us here use some sort of full length rail mount because they give additional stiffness to the action. I like the EGW heavy duty rails myself.

TPS TSRW rings are a great product at a very reasonable price. You can spend a lot more on a rail and rings, and I have, but I don't feel like I've got a better quality product for the extra money I've spent.

thanks you guys...

great gun, put anice rail on it and get a good set of quick release scope rings. i have the leupold QRW rings on my 338 and they hold up very well. i too like the idea of dumping the scope for open sights if something happens or if the cover gets too tight.

i'm really liking this site. thanks for all the help.

another question concerning bullets and bullet construction...

i've decided to use a 200 gr bullet. unfortunately for me i don't understand what the different bullet constructions accomplish. what would be the best 200 gr bullet/brand for this gun?

sroysr said:

i'm really liking this site. thanks for all the help.

another question concerning bullets and bullet construction...

i've decided to use a 200 gr bullet. unfortunately for me i don't understand what the different bullet constructions accomplish. what would be the best 200 gr bullet/brand for this gun?

Click to expand...

Lots of good bullets out there.

I'd say look hard at Hornady Interbond or Interlock and Nosler Accubonds for your application.

There are lots of good quick detach mounts. GGG Tactical, Larue Tactical, and Leupold all make some very good QD rings and mounts.

There are also some flip to the side rail type mounts but I would not recommend them.