The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade is a prized rifle, known for its accuracy and elegant craftsmanship. But like any firearm, sometimes a barrel change becomes necessary. Whether you're dealing with wear and tear, a desire for a different caliber, or simply wanting to customize your rifle, this guide will walk you through the process of changing the barrel on your Winchester Model 70 Super Grade. This is a significant undertaking, requiring specialized tools and expertise. Incorrectly performing this procedure can damage your rifle, so proceed with caution. We strongly advise seeking the assistance of a qualified gunsmith if you lack the necessary skills and tools.
Understanding the Process: Why and When to Change a Barrel
Before diving into the specifics, it's crucial to understand why a barrel change might be necessary. Several factors can necessitate this procedure:
- Barrel Wear: Over time, even the highest-quality barrels wear down. This leads to decreased accuracy and potentially inconsistent performance. The rifling can become worn, impacting bullet trajectory.
- Caliber Change: Want to shoot a different caliber? A barrel change is the solution. This allows you to adapt your rifle to a variety of hunting or target shooting situations.
- Customization: Some shooters customize their rifles for optimal performance. Changing the barrel to one with a different contour, length, or material can improve accuracy and handling.
- Damage: If the barrel is damaged (e.g., through accidents or improper cleaning), replacement is essential to maintain the rifle's safety and functionality.
Tools and Materials Required for a Barrel Change
Changing a barrel on a Winchester Model 70 Super Grade requires specialized tools. Improvising can lead to irreparable damage. You'll need:
- Action Wrench: A properly sized action wrench specific to the Winchester Model 70 is crucial for safely removing the barrel. Using an incorrectly sized wrench can damage the receiver.
- Barrel Vise: A barrel vise is needed to securely hold the barrel during the process. This prevents damage and ensures precise alignment.
- Go/No-Go Gauges: These gauges verify the headspace after the barrel change. Incorrect headspace is dangerous and can lead to malfunctions.
- Action Block: This tool supports the receiver, protecting it from damage during barrel removal and installation.
- Headspace Tools: These are necessary for checking and adjusting headspace after the barrel change. This is a critical safety measure.
- New Barrel: Naturally, you'll need a new barrel that's compatible with your Winchester Model 70 Super Grade receiver. Ensure it is the correct caliber and contour.
- Torque Wrench: Precisely tightening the barrel requires a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening and damaging the receiver.
- Gunsmithing Tools: A variety of smaller tools, including punches, screwdrivers, and cleaning supplies, will be needed throughout the process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Barrel
This guide provides a general overview; always consult a professional gunsmith if you are unsure about any step. This process is intricate and requires significant experience.
-
Safety First: Always unload and verify the firearm is unloaded before beginning any work. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
-
Disassembly: Carefully disassemble the rifle, removing the bolt, trigger group, and any other components that need to be removed to access the barrel.
-
Securing the Action: Place the action in the action block to protect it from damage.
-
Removing the Old Barrel: Using the action wrench, carefully unscrew the barrel from the receiver. Apply even pressure to avoid stripping the threads.
-
Installing the New Barrel: Carefully align the new barrel with the receiver and screw it into place using the action wrench. Tighten it according to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.
-
Headspace Check: This is critically important! Use the go/no-go gauges to verify the headspace. Incorrect headspace is a serious safety hazard.
-
Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the rifle, ensuring all components are correctly installed and functioning properly.
-
Function Test: Before using the rifle, thoroughly test the function and accuracy.
Case Study: Barrel Change on a Pre-64 Winchester Model 70
Let's consider a case study: a pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Super Grade requiring a barrel change due to significant barrel wear. This generation of Winchester 70s presents additional complexities due to their design and the availability of parts. Finding a qualified gunsmith experienced with pre-64 models is even more crucial in this situation. They'll possess the necessary knowledge of the specific nuances of the rifle and access to potentially harder-to-find parts. The process remains largely the same, but the gunsmith’s expertise becomes essential in troubleshooting any unforeseen issues that may arise during the process.
Conclusion: Professional Help is Often Essential
While this guide provides an overview of the barrel change process for a Winchester Model 70 Super Grade, it’s crucial to emphasize the complexity involved. Unless you possess extensive gunsmithing experience and the correct tools, it’s strongly recommended to seek the services of a qualified and experienced gunsmith. They possess the expertise to ensure the job is done correctly, safely, and to the highest standard, preserving the value and performance of your prized rifle. The cost of professional service is far less than the potential cost of damaging your firearm.