Winchester has released a press release announcing the return of the Model 70 bolt action rifle for 2008. The news is so fresh, in fact, that Winchester’s website has yet to be updated and still refers to the Model 70 as a historic firearm:
“We are often asked when the great historic products such as the Model 70, Model 94, Model 1300 and others will be reintroduced into the marketplace. At this time there are no definite plans or announcements.”
Winchester had ceased production of the Model 70 bolt-action and the Model 94 lever-action in 2006, putting an end to two legendary American rifle designs. The Model 70 had fallen out of favor with American shooters after a 1964 redesign that was regarded as cheapening the quality of the guns. The quality of Model 94s had similarly been degraded.
The re-born Model 70 will be made in America, will feature a new trigger, pre-’64 style controlled-round feed, and an improved version of Winchester’s great 3-position safety. All indications are that the re-born Model 70 should be a great rifle, offered in 4 different grades in a variety of calibers yet to be specified.
There’s currently no word on any plans for a Model 94 re-birth.