I bought this Winchester Model 71 back in November. It was advertised as a Deluxe, but I'm unsure if it has been modified to appear like a Deluxe.. The sling studs are different than another Model 71 that I own. These are a normal width, which will make it easy and much cheaper to get swivels for, but not factory as far as I can tell. I also know that the Model 71 was available with a shotgun butt, but again the rubber on this one is different then the other one I own and the pictures I've seen on here. Then there are the (2) compasses that have been added, they have to be a previous owner's modification. Can anyone comment about the checkering. Does this checkering appear to be factory? Not sure how to tell other than if the pattern or size differs from other known Deluxes.
Factory Deluxe or not, this is one nice rifle. Can't wait to run some rounds through it. Just can't seem to make time for the range these days.