Pre 64 Varmint Model , Help please.

[Old Hunter]

Today at a local gun show I came across  a pre 64 model 70 in 243. I know that it is not completly original, It has a custom recoil pad, and open screw holes where the front sight would normally be. It has weaver bases installed. I am not a good judge of vintage rifle conditions but everything like the safety and bolt release seems to work properly. The dealer has it on consignment from a man who he says is 70yrs old and believes he has never shot it. For whatever that means!. I do know that the magazine release button is very stiff so I don't think the shells have been dumped much. So anyway the price is a firm 900.00  and what do you think? What else should I ask and look at? Who made the barrel ? Is this a good deal?  This dealer has been carrying this gun around for the last several shows, but should I go back tomorrow and take it off the market? Thank-you for your help.

[Hairtrigger]

  This dealer has been carrying this gun around for the last several shows, 

There is a clue

[LONGTOM]

$900.00 is a little stiff unless it is at least in 90% condition.
I would say more like $750.00-$800.00 and that is more than I would want to put in it.
If it doesn't have Winchester stamped on the barrel than it has been changed.
It should have a 26" heavy barrel if original.
They were made from 1956 to 1963.
Blue book states as follows.
70% $775.00
80% $875.00
90% $1050.00
That is if it is 100% original.
We already know that is not the case because of the pad.
You take it from here.
Remember the book is just a guide.
Dealers will cut you anywhere from 30% to 50% if you are selling and ask 100%+ if they are selling.
Like I said, more than I would want to give.



LONGTOM

[Rangr44]

[The dealer has it on consignment from a man who he says is 70yrs old and believes he has never shot it. For whatever that means!. ]

That means exactly the same thing, as if I told you I have a 1970 Hemi-Cuda convertible that was oowned by my grandmother & driven only on Sundays (at the race track).   

If you believe that, then I have a nice bridge in New York City, that I can let you have cheap !   

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