A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

[Flatbush Harry]

I have a chance to pick up a NIB Win M70 "Ultimate Shadow" in .308 Win for $449. I'm thinking it's a good candidate for a project for a precision rifle. I looked at the search function and there are some interesting comments there in re a few smiths, parts, etc. Another route is a new FNH SPR. My thought is an SPR would be more of a known commodity, hence more salable down the road while the market for a customized rifle based on a blued Win action would be more limited. FNH also provides a very strong warranty.

All that said, I'd appreciate your thoughts as to the route I should follow.

Thanks in advance,

FH

 

[LRJammer]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

They are essentially the same action. If you are looking to just use the action to build a custom on, get the Winchester. If you are going to use it as is, you are probably better off with the SPR.

 

[230grRN]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

As far as future sales go I can't comment, but as far as rifle actions go the FN SPR and the Winchester are the same IIRC. All the new Winchesters are made in the FN plant and badged Winchester. The older model Winnys made in CT will have the old style trigger. I'm not sure if the FNs are using the original winny style or the new design though.

In the end it comes down to person preference, building a custom gun off of either will build a fantastic shooter.

 

[230grRN]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LRJammer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">They are essentially the same action. If you are looking to just use the action to build a custom on, get the Winchester. If you are going to use it as is, you are probably better off with the SPR. </div></div>

You beat me to it

Also for what its worth. I've heard a rumor that the new FNs and Winny recievers are now investment cast not machined out of solid like they used to be. Based on that I'd lean toward the older CT built guns.

 

[Action Guy]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

Investment casting is just a rumor. Receivers are still made the same way for the Winchester brand as well as the FNH line: forged and then finish machined from that forging.

USRAC receivers on both FNH and Winchesters have the older-style two lever triggers. FN Manufacturing made Winchesters now have the three lever "MOA" trigger. SPRs still have the two lever design. TSRs have the three lever.

At under $500 you can't go wrong either way; you can't buy just an action for that much. If you are looking to build it into a LRP rifle, find out where it was made if you want to upgrade the trigger. USRAC built will give you many aftermarket options as most trigger makers build replacements for the two lever. There will be far fewer options for replacement of the "MOA" trigger as it is newer. They are not interchangable. If the trigger does not matter (nothing wrong with the MOA, in my opinion) then there is no difference from that standpoint.

USRAC serial numbers will start with a "G" and be followed by six numbers: G359520. FNM built will start "35A" for example; 35AMP12035.

 

[kraigWY]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

As a side note, just because USRAC serial numbers start with a "G", doesn't mean you "G" serial number is a USRAC.

I have 4 Model 70s starting with the "G" and all are pre-USRAC.

My 257 Rbts Featherweight is one of the last post '64 - Pre USRAC Winchesters made.

I have never had a problem or felt the need to change the Winchester Triggers. Having said that the new FN Triggers are suppose to be better, easier to adjust.

I only have one FN (also a Featherweight) with the new trigger but I haven't felt the need to adjust it.

Of course I like to keep my bolt gun triggers at 3.5 lbs to comply with NRA rules.

 

[LRJammer]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

I think the investment casting rumor is an extension of the Montana actions. They are cast and I guess some have taken it to mean that they all are.

 

[Flatbush Harry]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

Thanks, guys, for your help and advice. I appreciate it.

Cheers,

FH

 

[230grRN]

Re: A Quick Question in re new Winchester short action

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Action Guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Investment casting is just a rumor. Receivers are still made the same way for the Winchester brand as well as the FNH line: forged and then finish machined from that forging. </div></div>

This is good to know thanks for the update!