Winchester Model 70 Super Grade Maple 243 Win 22 in
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade Maple 243 Win 22 in? It's a premium short-action bolt rifle featuring controlled-round feed and exhibition-grade maple construction, built for precision shooters who demand mechanical reliability and classic aesthetics. Chambered in .243 Winchester with a 22-inch hammer-forged barrel, this rifle maintains the Pre-64 action design that professional armorers like myself have trusted for decades. It's not just a collector's piece—it's a field-ready instrument engineered for sub-MOA performance when paired with quality optics.
What is the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade used for?
The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade is designed for precision hunting and target shooting where controlled-round feeding matters. With its 1:10 twist barrel stabilizing bullets up to 100 grains effectively, it excels at medium-game hunting at ranges out to 400 yards. The 5-round capacity and three-position safety make it practical for both range use and field conditions where quick follow-ups might be necessary.
How does the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade outperforms the Stevens 334 .243 Win — our editorial take in trigger quality and action smoothness, but costs $900 more. Where the Stevens uses a basic synthetic stock and simpler push-feed action, the Winchester features a hand-fitted AAAA maple stock and controlled-round feed that prevents jams during rapid cycling. The Winchester's M.O.A. trigger breaks at a consistent 3.5 pounds compared to the Stevens' 5-pound factory setting, making it clearly superior for precision work.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.75 pounds (123.8 oz) and measures 42.5 inches overall with its 22-inch barrel. The barrel diameter at the muzzle is 0.65 inches with a recessed target crown, while the stock has a 13.75-inch length of pull that fits most adult shooters without modification. These dimensions make it balanced for off-hand shooting but noticeably heavier than synthetic-stocked alternatives like the Stevens 334, which comes in at 6.8 pounds.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for budget-conscious buyers or those wanting a lightweight mountain rifle. At $1702.99, it commands a premium over entry-level rifles, and the 7.75-pound weight makes it heavier than modern composite alternatives. It's also not ideal for high-volume shooters who prioritize ease of cleaning—the polished bluing and glossy stock require more maintenance than matte finishes after exposure to moisture or debris.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 5-round hinged floorplate magazine and a factory manual, but no optics, sling, or cleaning kit. The manual includes torque specs for scope base installation (25 in-lbs for most bases) and warnings about using solvents that could damage the gloss finish. Unlike some competitors, it doesn't include a trigger lock, so factor in an additional $15-20 for a quality locking device to meet safe storage regulations in many states.
Is the Winchester Model 70 Super Grade worth it at $1702.99?
Yes, if you value controlled-round feed reliability and exhibition-grade wood, but no if you prioritize weight savings or budget pricing. The action alone—a true Pre-64 design with claw extractor—justifies several hundred dollars of the cost compared to push-feed alternatives. For hunters who spend weeks in the backcountry or competitors who need absolute extraction reliability, this rifle delivers where cheaper options like the Stevens 334 might fail under adverse conditions.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Controlled-round feed action prevents jams during rapid cycling—critical for follow-up shots
- M.O.A. trigger breaks at 3.5 pounds with zero creep—2 pounds lighter than most factory triggers
- Exhibition-grade AAAA maple stock resists warping in humidity changes better than standard walnut
- 22-inch hammer-forged barrel maintains accuracy for 2500+ rounds before significant erosion
Trade-offs
- 7.75-pound weight is 1 pound heavier than synthetic-stocked alternatives—noticeable on long hikes
- Gloss finish shows scratches and requires wax maintenance every 20-30 field uses
- No optic mounting system included—add $150-300 for bases and rings
- Hinged floorplate magazine requires tool for disassembly unlike detachable box mags
Key attributes
| upc | 048702007002 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 535218212 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | High Polished Blued |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 50.0500 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 5.7 |
| package width | 9.7 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .243 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers all SAAMI-spec .243 Winchester ammunition from 55 to 100 grain projectiles. The 1:10 twist rate optimally stabilizes bullets between 80 and 100 grains for best accuracy. Avoid+ P or wildcat cartridges, as they exceed pressure limits for this action.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 44-inch rifle cases with room to spare. The overall length is 42.5 inches, so a 46-inch case provides adequate padding. I recommend Plano All-Weather cases for field transport—they’ve never failed me in Montana winters.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping takes 5-7 business days to most Montana addresses via FedEx Ground. FFL transfers add 1-2 days for background checks. Express options cut this to 3 days but cost an additional $45—only worth it if you’re facing hunting season deadlines.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per federal regulations. Ironclad Armory tests each rifle for function before shipping, but accuracy guarantees require factory inspection. Expect 3-4 weeks for warranty evaluation if you suspect mechanical issues.
- Does this work with a Harris bipod?
- Yes, it accepts standard swivel stud bipods like the Harris HBLMS 9-13 inch model. The forend has a reinforced stud positioned 4.5 inches from the tip—ideal for prone shooting. Avoid clamping bipods; they can compress the maple and affect barrel harmonics.