Well, on this forum and elsewhere, I've read good and bad about them, but I've always been intrigued with the 264 Winchester Magnum.

I came across an almost dead mint pre-64 (made in 1960 according to the SN) Model 70 Westerner today, the price was right, and I couldn't pass it up. The metal finish is nearly flawless with just a little wear on the usual areas (bolt handle, floorplate), the wood is perfect with still-sharp checkering. It still has the original sights, as well as a Leupold VX-II 2x-7x mounted on it. The only problem I saw was that it is missing the breech bolt sleeve lock/pin/spring, which after some internet searching, looks to be a fairly easy task to get the parts. Since that only locks the firing pin assembly to the bolt when the action is open, I could shoot it now, just being careful when cycling the action, but I'll probably wait until I have the parts in.

This one is almost too pretty to shoot, but I'll get past that soon enough.

From what I've read in other posts, it may take some time to find the right load for this caliber/gun to make it shoot well, but that's all part of the fun.

Well, I just wanted to share the news of the new arrival, and my joining the ranks of the 6.5mm crowd. Once I get to the range, I'll be sure to share the results.

Dan

Congrats on your find BTO. The 6.5mm's have a lot to recommend them. The 264 WM was a bit ahead of it's time, or let's say, ahead of bullet technology, and suffered from stories of bullet failure. We now have better powders as well. The intro of the 7mm RM didn't do it any good either.

I hope it's a good shooter for you. If I were you, I'd try to develop a good load with a stout 140 grainer. Good luck!

Sweet, the 264 is one I'd like to have someday

Congrats on obtaining a fine rifle. I'm sure you'll enjoy it and will be more than satisfied with the results.

should make a dandy beanfield pea-shooter.

Mint pre-64 Model 70 - it don't get any better than that!