Winchester Model 70 Featherweight, .308 Win, 22 in Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Winchester Model 70 Featherweight .308 Win is a lightweight bolt-action hunting rifle that updates a classic controlled-round-feed design for precision mountain and long-range shooting.
What is the Winchester Model 70 Featherweight used for?
This rifle is a dedicated mountain and long-range hunting platform for medium to large game, like elk or mule deer. The 6.8 lb weight and 42.5-inch overall length make it exceptional for extended stalks, while the .308 Winchester chambering provides ethical terminal ballistics out to 500 yards with the right handloads. I'd pair it with a variable-power scope no heavier than 20 oz to maintain its balance.
How does the Model 70 Featherweight compare to the Stevens 334?
The Model 70 Featherweight is a premium forged-steel action with superior fit and finish, while the Stevens 334 in .308 is a utilitarian, injection-molded rifle built for cost. The $1165.99 Model 70 gives you a true controlled-round-feed claw extractor, the M.O.A. trigger system user-adjustable down to 2.5 lbs, and a Grade I walnut stock – features absent on the under-$500 Stevens 334. For a budget all-weather rifle, consider the the Stevens 334; for heirloom-grade mechanical reliability where every ounce counts, the Featherweight is definitively better.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6 pounds 12.8 ounces (3.08 kg) without optics or sling and measures 42.5 inches in overall length. The critical numbers are the 22-inch barrel with a 1:12 twist rate and a length of pull of 13.625 inches. Expect a free-floating barrel channel with approximately .090 inches of clearance around the walnut fore-end.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the first-time shooter or someone wanting a tactical chassis system. The satin walnut stock and polished bluing are not suited for hard-use carbine courses or neglectful storage. If your primary need is a high-round-count, optics-ready rifle for positional competition, you're paying for beauty and history you'll likely damage.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 5-round fixed internal magazine, and the factory owner's manual. It does not include scope bases, rings, a sling, or a case. You'll need to budget an additional $80-$200 for a Picatinny rail or traditional two-piece bases and rings to mount an optic. Check our guide on mounting systems for classic actions — our editorial take for specific torque specs.
Is the Winchester Model 70 Featherweight worth it at $1165.99?
Yes, if you value a forged action, controlled-round feed, and classic American walnut at this price point, it's a compelling value. The action alone, with its three-position safety and M.O.A. trigger, represents a $700+ foundation for a custom build. You could spend $800 more for a comparable custom shop rifle with similar features. For the shooter who understands the mechanical advantage of a claw extractor in adverse field positions, this price is justified.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lbs – nearly 2 lbs lighter than a standard-weight sporter rifle.
- Forged 4140 steel receiver with Pre-'64 controlled-round-feed claw extractor.
- M.O.A. trigger system user-adjustable from 2.5 to 5 lbs.
- 22" free-floating barrel provides 2680-2720 fps with 150-grain factory ammo.
Trade-offs
- Barrel is not threaded – adding a suppressor requires a $150-250 gunsmith job.
- Fixed 5-round magazine – no quick reloads without major modification.
- Grade I walnut is susceptible to dings and humidity changes versus synthetic stocks.
Key attributes
| upc | 048702002175 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 535200220 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Brushed Polish Blued |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 50.1500 |
| model | M70 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 3.7 |
| package width | 9.7 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 8.6 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AICS pattern magazines?
- No, the Model 70 Featherweight uses a fixed, internal 5-round box magazine with a hinged floorplate. Conversion to a detachable magazine system like an AICS requires significant gunsmithing, a new bottom metal assembly, and stock inletting – a project costing $400+.
- Does it come with a threaded barrel for a suppressor?
- No, the 22-inch barrel has a recessed target crown but is not threaded from the factory. Threading for a suppressor requires a certified gunsmith to cut, thread (typically 5/8"-24 for .308), and re-crown the barrel, a service costing between $150 and $250 plus shipping.
- What scope base pattern does it use?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard two-piece base set using 6-48 screws (front) and 8-40 screws (rear). Common patterns are the Winchester Model 70 pre-'64 short action or the proprietary Winchester #E/A. I recommend using a template from Warne or Leupold for exact fit.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days for in-stock items. Delivery transit time to your chosen FFL holder depends on carrier, usually 2-7 additional business days. You must contact your FFL dealer in advance to provide their license and coordinate transfer.
- What is the trigger pull weight range?
- The M.O.A. trigger system is factory-set between 3.5 and 4.5 lbs but is user-adjustable down to a safe minimum of 2.5 lbs using the provided hex key. Adjustment takes about 15 minutes following the manual's instructions to avoid overtravel or sear disengagement.