Production of the Winchester Model 70 started in 1935. It has gone through many changes over the years, but is currently still in production today. The following information is critical MUST HAVE knowledge when ordering parts or wood for your Winchester Model 70. When was your Model 70 produced?
Production Type by Year of Manufacturer: 1935-1963: Pre '64 Winchester Repeating Arms Company 1964-2006: USRAC (U.S. Repeating Arms Co.) 2008-Current: New Winchester Production While dating your Model 70 by serial number can be difficult, and there are many 'legends' about why the historic serial number records for Winchester rifles and shotguns are not complete or why they are not always verifiable. A few reasons cited are:. A fire at the factory. Inadvertent destruction (during office cleaning). Records simply lost in filing. Records misplaced between ownership transitions.
Documents borrowed but not returned There is probably some kernel of truth to all of them. But the fact remains; there is no original, single, totally accurate database of serial numbers from 1866 forward that we are aware of. But perhaps this page can help you somewhat in your research.
The Winchester Model 12 serial numbers are sequential starting at 1. Also Known as the M12 or Model 12 *introduced in 1912 with only the 20 gauge available, 12 ga. Came out in 1914. The principle designer of the Winchester model 12 was John Browning. Winchester Model 12.