Pre- '64 Winchester model 94

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popcan

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To all you lever experts out there....


Are the pre-'64 winchesters (model 94) more desireable due to all the drastic design and manufacturing changes that were introduced?

Or, are the post '64 models worthy pieces to own?

I'm also wondering about the top eject vs. the angle eject.... when did that change? It must be difficult to mount a scope on the top eject version.
 
The pre 64s were made with closer tolerances and with better materials than some later models.Open the lever on a newer 94 and on a pre 64 in good condition and compare the side to side slop in them.My 1950 model 94 has much less slop than most later models.
 
Biggest difference I have seen between Pre and Post is in the quality of materials. Shell lifters- cast/machined (Pre) versus stamped (Post)
Shell latches- virtually no trouble on Pre's, some awful ones on the Posts, allowing rounds to sneak under the lifter, making a replacement necessary.
As for the scope mounting, the AE is easier to mount and use. The Top Eject Models had to have the scope mounted on the left side and be turned 90 degrees to the left, making your original windage now your elevation and the elevation your windage. Always fun to watch someone adjust... :lol:
 
Some of the post64 94s had wierd alloy recievers that looked like leprosy after a while and am told they are pretty much impossible to re-blue. I think they were made around the mid-70s. :arrow:

Not to mention the rattling :roll:


SC.......................
 
The post '64's thet were really bad can be identified by the sheet metal rear sight, and the stamped cartridge lifter inside.
By the time they got around to the angle eject models (in the mid to late 70's I think), they were once again a quality firearm. They still lack the tolerances of the pre-64, but are worlds away from the late 60's junk. They are initially not as smooth, however, with use, they quickly smooth out.
I'm not sure if they still use the finnish they used in the early 70's. It's a very hard finish, like an enamel, but not. It chips sort of. I have one, shoots great.
All '94's rattle, if you don't have your hand around the lever. But then, why would you do that when hunting? They don't rattle when held in the firing position.
Those loose tolerances and open bottom action, let all the dirt and crap that would sieze up a lot of other guns, fall right through.
 
I just like the old stuff.......so does my wife. Probably why she married me.... :wink:

An old Winchester is a solid choice. I'm sure Meanea will be first to back me up on that one......
 
It's really too bad, I've seen a few good deals on the Canadian Centenial rifle with that great looking long octagonal barrel. But I assume that 67 was probably one of the worst years for a Winchester 94.
 
Well it looks like I'm going to acquire a pre '64 from my father in law, who doesn't shoot or hunt anymore. I haven't even seen it yet, but I think it is a 30-30.

I have a hunch it's in really nice condition.

Thanks for the info guys.
 
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