{"id":230476,"date":"2026-02-01T13:28:07","date_gmt":"2026-02-01T19:28:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=230476"},"modified":"2026-02-01T15:12:51","modified_gmt":"2026-02-01T21:12:51","slug":"winchester-model-70-shot-show-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/winchester-model-70-shot-show-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Newly Revised Winchester Model 70 — SHOT Show 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/span>Estimated reading time: <\/span>6<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Close
Any hype for this rifle is centered on its return to a Pre-64 CRF bolt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The updated Winchester Model 70 Featherweight doesn\u2019t try to reinvent<\/a> a legend. Instead, it refines a rifle that never needed fixing, while preserving the qualities that made the Model 70 a trusted hunting tool for generations.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"studio
It’s nice to see classic styling accompanying the classic bolt return.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

This is still a working rifle first. It just happens to look — and function — like the one your grandfather carries — right down to the shnabel forend and red rubber recoil pad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

French Walnut, Done the Right Way<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Winchester released four new configurations at SHOT Show<\/a>. The Featherweight AA French model, shown here, pairs modern production with traditional materials. The French walnut stock wears a low\u2011gloss satin finish, not a high\u2011polish shine. It\u2019s meant to be used, not admired from a rack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Close
This is a handsome configuration with classic checkering.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The stock features classic cut checkering, a schnabel forend, and a slim profile that complements the Featherweight\u2019s balance. Over time, the inevitable nicks and scratches don\u2019t detract from the rifle; they become touchstones tied to each hunt it goes on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Featherweight Profile and Practical Dimensions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Winchester keeps the Featherweight true to its name with a slimmer barrel contour and lively handling. Barrel lengths<\/a> are 22 inches for standard calibers and 24 inches for magnum chamberings, striking a balance between velocity and portability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SEE ALSO: Chiappa Rhino 44 Mag: Bigger, Better, Bottom Firing \u2014 SHOT Show 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"close
The glossy finish on the action and barrel carries the classic maker’s mark well, as well as the scope mounts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Chamberings span proven, high\u2011volume classics, from .22\u2011250 up through .300 Winchester Magnum<\/a>. These are cartridges hunters trust, reload, and buy year after year. But it also comes in new favs, especially Winchester-named cartridges like 6.8 Western<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Controlled Round Feed, As It Should Be<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At the heart of the revised Model 70 is the controlled round feed bolt<\/a>, built in the classic pre\u2011\u201964 style. A large, non\u2011rotating claw extractor captures the cartridge as soon as it leaves the magazine and maintains control through chambering, firing, and extraction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pre-1964 Model 70’s with this feature are highly valued on the used market, often going for more than $4,000.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Close
All new Model 70s have a CRF bolt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

With the controlled round feed, the round is never loose inside the action. This system dramatically reduces the risk of double feeds<\/a> and ensures reliable operation even when the rifle is cycled at odd angles or under stress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n