Re: Model 70 opinions
I have two Winchesters currently. One is a .300 WM ( a factory barreled action sitting in a McM edge), the other a GAP built .280AI. The 300WM is a M70 Classic built around '99, which is the same design as a Pre-64 - claw extractor, simple trigger design, 3-position safety,etc. the "claw" captures the case rim as the case is pushed by the bolt from the magazine and carries the cartridge into the chamber. The bolt can actually be removed from the action with the cartridge still being held by the claw. The 280AI is a "post-64" built around '80. The Post-64 design uses an extractor on the bolt face( very similar to a Savage), simple trigger design, 3-position safety, etc. These "post-64s are called push feed actions because they don't grab the cartridge and control it like the claw does on the pre-64/ Classics. Nowadays the Winchester M70 is produced by FN. The trigger has been redesigned but the claw extractor and 3-postion safety are still there.
LOTS of folks find the Pre-64s collectible and they can fetch a premium if in good original condition. There are many of these that we're produced for short periods of time in certain cartridges or with heavy barrels and so on which add to their "collectibility". Lots more info on the Winchesters , but hopefully this has helped you see the differences between the two