Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this highly collectible bolt-action rifle for a penny-start auction; this is the Winchester Model 70 Standard!
Estimates suggest that fewer than 3,500 Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 rifles were produced in .22 Hornet between 1936 and 1963, making it one of the rarest standard chamberings offered during that era. This limited production, coupled with the fact that many rifles were heavily used in the field for varmint hunting, means high-condition examples are exceptionally difficult to find today. As a result, collectors place a premium on originality, condition, and matching components, with well-preserved rifles often commanding significantly higher values than more common chamberings. The combination of rarity, utility, and Winchester’s legendary Pre-64 craftsmanship ensures that the .22 Hornet remains a standout prize in any serious Model 70 collection.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 70 Standard
Model: 70 Standard
Serial: 179151
Date of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 24"
Optics/Sights: Hooded Blade Front with Elevator Adjustable Rear and Drilled and Tapped Receiver
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Pistol Grip Stock with Straight Comb and Ebony Forend Cap
Action: Bolt-Action Rifle
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 chambered in .22 Hornet represents a fascinating and highly collectible example of the “Rifleman’s Rifle” in one of its rarest small-bore chamberings. Introduced in the 1930s, the .22 Hornet was one of the earliest commercially successful small-caliber, high-velocity cartridges, offering varmint hunters and precision shooters an effective round with a relatively flat trajectory and mild recoil. Winchester capitalized on this demand by chambering its premium Model 70 rifle in the cartridge, though production numbers remained low compared to more popular centerfire options such as .270 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield. Built with the same controlled-round feed, Mauser-inspired claw extractor, and precision-machined receiver as other Pre-64 Model 70s, the .22 Hornet variant combined the unmatched craftsmanship of Winchester’s golden era with the practical utility of a varmint rifle, making it an appealing choice for sportsmen who valued both refinement and performance. Its light recoil and efficient design made it especially popular with those hunting small game, woodchucks, and predators out to medium ranges. From a collector’s perspective, the Pre-64 Model 70 in .22 Hornet stands out as a highly desirable rifle due to its relative scarcity and the unique position it holds within the broader Model 70 lineup. Fewer rifles were manufactured in this chambering, making surviving examples significantly harder to locate in excellent, original condition. The small-bore chambering required slight alterations to the magazine and feed geometry, further distinguishing it from its larger-caliber siblings and adding to its appeal among enthusiasts who seek unusual variations. As with all Pre-64 Model 70s, the rifle benefits from hand-fitted craftsmanship, deeply blued metal, and finely finished walnut stocks that reflect Winchester’s high production standards of the era. Collectors and shooters alike prize the combination of rarity, quality, and historical significance, with the .22 Hornet chambering often considered one of the most charming and distinctive Pre-64 Model 70 variants ever made.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Date of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 24"
Optics/Sights: Hooded Blade Front with Elevator Adjustable Rear and Drilled and Tapped Receiver
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Pistol Grip Stock with Straight Comb and Ebony Forend Cap
Action: Bolt-Action Rifle
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 chambered in .22 Hornet represents a fascinating and highly collectible example of the “Rifleman’s Rifle” in one of its rarest small-bore chamberings. Introduced in the 1930s, the .22 Hornet was one of the earliest commercially successful small-caliber, high-velocity cartridges, offering varmint hunters and precision shooters an effective round with a relatively flat trajectory and mild recoil. Winchester capitalized on this demand by chambering its premium Model 70 rifle in the cartridge, though production numbers remained low compared to more popular centerfire options such as .270 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield. Built with the same controlled-round feed, Mauser-inspired claw extractor, and precision-machined receiver as other Pre-64 Model 70s, the .22 Hornet variant combined the unmatched craftsmanship of Winchester’s golden era with the practical utility of a varmint rifle, making it an appealing choice for sportsmen who valued both refinement and performance. Its light recoil and efficient design made it especially popular with those hunting small game, woodchucks, and predators out to medium ranges. From a collector’s perspective, the Pre-64 Model 70 in .22 Hornet stands out as a highly desirable rifle due to its relative scarcity and the unique position it holds within the broader Model 70 lineup. Fewer rifles were manufactured in this chambering, making surviving examples significantly harder to locate in excellent, original condition. The small-bore chambering required slight alterations to the magazine and feed geometry, further distinguishing it from its larger-caliber siblings and adding to its appeal among enthusiasts who seek unusual variations. As with all Pre-64 Model 70s, the rifle benefits from hand-fitted craftsmanship, deeply blued metal, and finely finished walnut stocks that reflect Winchester’s high production standards of the era. Collectors and shooters alike prize the combination of rarity, quality, and historical significance, with the .22 Hornet chambering often considered one of the most charming and distinctive Pre-64 Model 70 variants ever made.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
