This a standard rifle in the scarce chambering of 7mm (7x57mm Mauser) produced in 1941. It is in pristine condition and presents in the correct factory configuration with all original factory finishes at 95%+. This rifle grades in NRA excellent condition.
The 7mm chambering is the 3rd most rare of the cataloged model 70 chamberings, representing just a fraction of a percent of total pre-64 model 70 production. The scarcity of the 7mm chambering combined with the early production year and the exceptional condition of this rifle make it a particularly desirable and collectible rifle.
The stock is a deep colored piece of American walnut which retains its factory finish in near perfect condition with a few very slight blemishes. The factory steel buttplate is intact with no noted wear. The original bluing is excellent, grading at better than 95%. There is not a hint of edge wear or muzzle wear. The bottom metal is perfect as well. The only noted blemish in the bluing is a scratch on the right side of the barrel. The bore of the 24" barrel is pristine with no problems. A borescope inspection shows little evidence of this rifle ever being fired. There are no tool marks on the action screws. The bolt is serial numbered to the receiver.
This rifle has both an oval "PW" proof and an oval "P" proof. This indicates the rifle had the barrel replaced in the Winchester factory, likely as a result of a warranty barrel replacement. Also noteworthy is an extremely small import marking on the bottom of the barrel (about 1/32" high by 3/8" long) indicating the rifle was reimported to the US at some point after spending time in Canada.
This is a truly spectacular example of this scarce and highly collectible model 70.
NOTE: This rifle must be shipped to an FFL or C&R holder who can complete the transfer. If needed, we are happy to assist you in locating an FFL holder near you who receive and transfer the rifle to you.
