Description
The Winchester 70 Featherweight Bolt 325 WSM 24″ Barrel, Grade I Wal Stock Blued, 3rd is a modern iteration of the classic Model 70 bolt-action rifle, chambered in the potent .325 Winchester Short Magnum cartridge. It features a 24-inch barrel, a Grade I walnut stock, and a blued steel finish, designed for hunters who need a powerful, flat-shooting rifle that’s still manageable to carry in the field. I’ve put a few boxes of the stout .325 WSM through this platform, and it’s a serious tool for serious game.
Key Features
- M.O.A. Trigger System: A user-adjustable, crisp trigger with a pull weight that can be tuned for precision.
- Controlled Round Push Feed: The classic Model 70 claw extractor and controlled round feeding for reliable feeding and extraction.
- Grade I American Walnut Stock: A classic, hand-finished stock with a satin finish and checkering for a secure grip.
- 24″ Barrel: Optimizes the .325 WSM cartridge’s velocity for a flatter trajectory and retained energy at distance.
- Blued Steel Finish: Provides a traditional, durable, and low-glare appearance perfect for hunting environments.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .325 Winchester Short Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 24 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.25 lbs (unscoped) |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds |
| Stock | Grade I Walnut |
Look, the .325 WSM isn’t a plinking round—it’s a purpose-built hunting cartridge that bridges the gap between the .30-06 and the .338 Win Mag. It drives 200-grain bullets at over 2,900 fps, making it a fantastic choice for elk, moose, and large bear. The 24-inch barrel on this Featherweight model helps you realize that cartridge’s full potential. At a hair over seven pounds unscoped, it’s a rifle you can pack all day in the Rockies or the Missouri Ozarks without it becoming an anchor. The price point of $874.75 is competitive for a rifle with this heritage and these features, especially with a genuine walnut stock.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Winchester Model 70 is built for the experienced hunter pursuing large game at moderate to longer ranges. It’s for the hunter who appreciates traditional craftsmanship but demands modern performance—someone who needs a rifle that’s powerful enough for elk but won’t punish them on a week-long backpack hunt. It’s not a beginner’s rifle, given the recoil and ammunition cost of the .325 WSM, but for its intended user, it’s a highly effective and classy tool.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The classic Model 70 controlled feed action is legendary for reliability. The .325 WSM cartridge offers outstanding terminal performance on large game. The walnut stock and blued steel provide timeless aesthetics and durability. The weight is a perfect balance of shootability and portability. It’s drop-in ready for a scope and sling, requiring no gunsmithing to get into the field.
Cons: Ammunition for the .325 WSM is less common and more expensive than for mainstream calibers. Recoil is substantial—you’ll feel it after a long range session. The 24-inch barrel can feel a bit long in dense brush. It’s a specialized tool, not a general-purpose rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .325 WSM a good elk cartridge?
A: Absolutely. It’s one of the best modern cartridges designed specifically for elk-sized game. With 200-grain or heavier bullets, it delivers deep penetration and high energy at ethical hunting ranges, easily out to 300-400 yards.
Q: What kind of scope base does this Model 70 use?
A: This third-generation Model 70 uses a standard long-action scope base pattern. Brands like Leupold, Warne, and Talley make excellent one-piece or two-piece bases and rings that are compatible with this Winchester 70 receiver.
Q: How does the “Featherweight” model differ from a standard Model 70?
A: The Featherweight uses a slightly slimmer contour barrel and a stock designed to minimize overall weight without sacrificing too much rigidity. The goal is a rifle that’s easier to carry on long hunts, though you trade a bit of weight for slightly more felt recoil and potentially faster barrel heating.
If you’re after a classic American rifle built for modern, hard-hitting performance on the largest game in North America, this Winchester deserves a close look. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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