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An important note about part conditions

With the oldest Winchester Model 70 rifles now approaching 90 years of age, the condition of collectible rifles and parts ranges from new-in-the-box examples to well-used shooters that have developed the natural wear and patina that come with decades of use.

Adding to the complexity, the pre-64 Model 70 is one of the most popular platforms ever used for custom rifle building. As a result, collectors, shooters, restorers, and custom rifle builders often seek parts in dramatically different conditions. One customer may be looking for a pristine original part for a museum-quality restoration, while another may be searching for an honest, worn component that perfectly matches a well-used hunting rifle.

To serve the needs of all Model 70 owners, PRE64WIN.COM INC. offers parts spanning this full spectrum of condition. Our goal is simple: we want you to receive a part that accurately matches its description and photographs so you can confidently determine whether it is the right part for your project.

This guide explains how we describe condition and what information you should review before making a purchase.

The product title only tells part of the story

In many cases, we include a brief condition description in the product title to help customers quickly identify parts that may be of interest.

For example:

"1955 Sporter Floor Plate - 50% Bluing"

This tells you that about 50% of the original finish remains, but it cannot fully convey every aspect of the part's condition. Two parts with similar finish percentages may differ significantly in terms of wear, scratches, tool marks, modifications, corrosion, or other characteristics.

Common condition descriptors used in product titles include:

  • Percentage of original finish remaining
  • Reblued condition
  • Freckling or patina
  • Modifications
  • Reproduction status
  • Other significant condition characteristics

For that reason, product titles should be considered a summary rather than a complete description of condition.

The photos and description are important  

Because a complete understanding of condition cannot be conveyed in a product title, we provide detailed photographs and written descriptions whenever practical.

We use the NRA Modern Gun Condition Standards Grading System. When applicable, one of the following grades will be assigned to rifles and parts sold on this site:

  • NEW: Not previously sold at retail and in the same condition as original new factory production.
  • PERFECT: In New condition in every respect. 
  • EXCELLENT: Used very little with no noticeable marring of wood or metal and virtually perfect finish, (except at muzzle or sharp edges).
  • VERY GOOD: In perfect working condition, no appreciable wear on working surfaces, no corrosion or pitting, only minor surface dents or scratches.
  • GOOD: In safe working condition, minor wear on working surfaces, no broken parts, no corrosion or pitting that will interfere with proper functioning.
  • FAIR: In safe working condition but well worn, perhaps requiring replacement of minor parts or adjustments which should be indicated in advertisement, no rust, but may have corrosion pits which do not render article unsafe or inoperable.

We also use the Percentage of Original Finish System, as described in Fjestad's price guide. This percentage represents our estimate of the original finish remaining on a rifle or part.

For reblued parts, the part will be identified as reblued, and when appropriate we may include a finish percentage to help describe the current condition of the reblued finish (for example, "90% REBLUE").

In addition to NRA grades and finish percentages, we attempt to photograph and describe significant condition characteristics, including:

  • Bluing loss and edge wear
  • Rebluing 
  • Evidence of cold-bluing or other part finish repairs
  • Modifications
  • Rust or pitting
  • Scratches, scrapes and gouges
  • Tool marks
  • Other notable condition characteristics

For barrels, we attempt to describe observable bore condition, including pitting, dark areas, or rifling wear. For stocks, we attempt to identify cracks, repairs, bedding work, modifications, and other condition characteristics that may not be obvious from photographs.

Condition assessments are opinions based upon visual inspection and available information. Product descriptions, photographs, measurements, and condition assessments are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed. 

If we get it wrong

We strive to accurately describe and photograph every item we sell. If you receive a part that is materially different from its description, please contact us promptly and we will work with you to resolve the issue.

Customers should review our Return Policy for complete details regarding eligibility, return procedures, and applicable time limits.

Our goal is simple: we want you to have enough information to confidently determine whether a part is right for your project before you buy it.