lightening a model 70

[rgv]

For those interested in such things, this is what a Classic Short action looks like with exactly 1.78 ounces milled and filed off

A little less than I'd hoped, but not terrible, and goes to show that after changing the stock (21 oz Edge FW pattern) and the bottom metal (from the 6.5 oz stainless to 1.8 oz alloy pre-64), that the gains (losses actually) rapidly diminish

 

[chuck nelson]

If it's any consolation it looks great!

The bottom metal is a big factor no doubt. Now with Sunny Hill making a 3 piece aluminum unit and PT&G a one piece straddle floorplate unit these with the stock probably represent the best bargain in weight reduction for a Model 70 Classic.

 

[crazy_davey]

What is your guess at a final weight when finished(scope and rings included)?

Would be interested in hearing more about it as you get closer to being finished...

 

[tiriaq]

Tidy machine work.
You could also make cuts to the top of the rear bridge (like P14), perhaps along the sides of the magazine well.

 

[MTM]

Cool, it's starting to look like an A-bolt. Hahahaha

 

[MTM]

I know, I know if I don't have anything nice to say........

He's a good friend so it's O.K.

 

[LittleBoyLefty]

Nice job. I'd be interested in the final weight too...

 

[rgv]

Martini did the slabbing and turned the recoil lug, I did the hack job on the tang.

I was going for 7 lbs all up, as in scoped, slung, loaded, scope covers. It's looking like the bare rifle will be in the 92-93 ounce range, so I'll be close.

Cool, it's starting to look like an A-bolt. Hahahaha

it is. I love the A-bort styling so much I'm going to send these in for the same, plus gold plate the triggers and engrave deer heads on the triggerguards

 

[MTM]

Now yer talkin.

 

[patricksbb391]

While a great example of a fine machinist's work, I think you'd be better off selling those M70 actions and going with something closer to your needs. I don't think the resulting firearm would command a premium for an M70 action that has been tinkered with that much. Just my $0.02.

 

[chuck nelson]

While a great example of a fine machinist's work, I think you'd be better off selling those M70 actions and going with something closer to your needs. I don't think the resulting firearm would command a premium for an M70 action that has been tinkered with that much. Just my $0.02.

I think he knows exactly what he is doing.

 

[rgv]

While a great example of a fine machinist's work, I think you'd be better off selling those M70 actions and going with something closer to your needs. I don't think the resulting firearm would command a premium for an M70 action that has been tinkered with that much. Just my $0.02.

I was just joking with MTM, I assure you none of those three will be seeing a milling machine.

As for the first rifle, I'll be the first to admit I could have bought a Kimber 84 or a 700 Ti, but I tend to get ideas in my head and chew through the steps to get there. More in the cause of entertaining myself, rather than to command a price down the road.

 

[Mur]

I was just joking with MTM, I assure you none of those three will be seeing a milling machine.

As for the first rifle, I'll be the first to admit I could have bought a Kimber 84 or a 700 Ti, but I tend to get ideas in my head and chew through the steps to get there. More in the cause of entertaining myself, rather than to command a price down the road.

I'm the same,I do or have done what I want to the rifle,selling it doesn't enter into my head at all.I want to carry and shoot it,not move it!Of course I have lost a dollar or two on my projects over the years,but big deal.Can't wait to see it finished! Mur

 

[patricksbb391]

My comments not meant to be insulting, and glad to hear that RGV was joking about wanting to make an A-Bolt!!!! So, you're not gonna use all those M70 actions??

 

[rgv]

heres some pics after some epoxy and paint, a 4x Leupold in Talley LW rings, and alloy pre-64 bottom metal shortened and fit.

It weighs 6 lbs 9 oz as shown. With 5 rounds aboard, BC scope caps, and a nylon sling it looks like I'll be about an ounce over my target of 7 lbs hunting weight. Metal needs some touch up beadblasting and the alloy bottom metal will get silver gunkote or something similar.

 

[chuck nelson]

Looks great! That weight is fantastic.

 

[thepitchedlink]

That....is a cool rig

 

[Mur]

Verrrry nice! Mur

 

[blargon]

Not sure if you mentioned, but what cal is it?

 

[struff55]

Nice Work !. Iwould like a 280 featherwieght build in that configeration I sold my pre 64 rifles that would have been suitable for a custom action I may have to find something a little on the ruff side to take apart.