Pre-64 Winchester build?

[skookum]

So i was offered a pre-64 winchester ( his claim was 1952) with an after market match grade barrel from a guy who inherited the rifle. He said he just wanted to get rid of it because it will not shoot factory rounds, the guy who he inherited it from put a "Match Burner" barrel as he kept calling it, on the rifle. Just by talking to the guy it was clear that he had no idea what he had as he offered it to me or anyone that is interested $350 with the scope(an old leupold.) I saw the rifle, looks like the stock is original, but i was not able to see the serial number- would it be on the action? and if so where?

He didn't know how many times the rifle had been fired, but from the outside it looked like it was in good shape (minimal wear, and no rust.) My second question is Would this be a wise investment? is the action itself worth anything? And if not dollar wise, would it be worth taking this action and building a rifle with it?

 

[HARPERC]

My 1956 Featherweight serial number is in the 34X,XXX range, and is located on the forward right side of the receiver. Unless there is something really wrong with it it sounds very reasonable. I've had more than one updated (customized) with quality barrels, and stocks, assembled by good smiths that perform very well. I have one from 1946 that is at the smith for a new Mcmillan stock. I have no idea at age 67 how many rounds are through it, but it's been through shooting out a 300H&H barrel. Significant 358 AI magnum loads and now has many rounds into a 338 RUM barrel. Short of being overheated in a fire they stand the test of time fairly well in my opinion. If it shoots as is great, but yes the core action can be a good place to start a build.

 

[Catfur]

I'd say $350 for just the action and stock on a pre '64 is absolutely worth it.

 

[Edd]

is the action itself worth anything?

The best way I can answer this question is... If that action is in good condition, I'd give $600 for it.

 

[skookum]

Thank you all for the info, i bought it for $350 and ran, it has a Super Mashburn Barrel on it, any ideas about that? the Serial Number is in the 290,000 range which dates it around 1952 i'm told.