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Whitworth express 458 or m70... Hurry

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26 January 2014, 16:49
Sean1975
Whitworth express 458 or m70... Hurry
Hello guys,

A quick question. I'm looking to pick up another 458 and I only have a few hours to decide which one. I have the option to get a newer m70 safari express for 1200.00 or an older whitworth express 458. The whitworth is stated to be made in Manchester England and the action is stamped CZ of course. Controlled round feed etc but I think it's sleeker and lighter than the m70. More kick etc but I'm ok with that. It has the express folding sights and it's 100% unfired. I can get it for 800.00 even. No scope.

Are they as good as the m70? I've read (we know the internet well and the BS) that they had a tendency to pop the floor plates and ammo dump at the feet was common and also the barrels were really soft and shoot the riffling out almost immediately.

I do shoot quite a lot but it would also get a lot of reduced loads with lead. I'm a winchester fan but like others as well so please guys, be honest not biased.

Thanks guys and thanks got the thoughts on my other 458 question posted earlier.

Sean
26 January 2014, 17:05
robthom
The Whitworth rifles were imported from the former Yugoslavia into England. I believe the importer's office was in Manchester, England.

All firearms imported into the UK originating from countries with which the UK Proof House does not have a reciprocal arrangement / recognition, have to be proof tested in the UK.

Thw Whitworth rifles are handsome, especially the "Express" style. Stockwork - new stocks etc are expensive. It is cheaper and easier to replace a spring / latch which retains the magazine with one with the correct 'tension' etc.

The Whitworth Express rifles had a reputation for being accurate big bore rifles generally.

I have a rifle built on a modern Zastava (original makers) left hand Mauser action. I like it. I hope this helps.
26 January 2014, 17:27
Badger Matt
Love my Whitworth .458 WM.
26 January 2014, 17:38
ELeeton
I would vote for the Whitworth as well.


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Brno ZP-149 45-120 NE

26 January 2014, 17:48
Sean1975
From what I understand the 375 and the 458 are the only true full whitworth built rifles? That's what I've read anyway...

So far, all votes for the whitworth... I was kinda hoping it would go that way since it's a very dark colored stock. Very English in appearance. Kinda makes you think of a rigby from a phs hand in Africa. Kinda. Oil rubbed wood... No lawyer. Told it was actually ordered that way in the 70's.
26 January 2014, 18:09
Sean1975
Sorry for the damned typos you guys. iPad auto corrects!!!! I meant no lacquer, not lawyers! Dammit...
26 January 2014, 21:02
N E 450 No2
Once upon a time I has a Whitworth in 375 and one in 458.
So I would recommend the Whitworth over the Mod 70.

I sold the Whitworths when I went to Double rifles.


DOUBLE RIFLE SHOOTERS SOCIETY
26 January 2014, 21:29
cal pappas
I've had a few of each over the years in my single barrel days. Dollar for Dollar the Whitworth takes it for me.
Cal


_______________________________

Cal Pappas, Willow, Alaska
www.CalPappas.com
www.CalPappas.blogspot.com
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______________________________
26 January 2014, 22:34
Sean1975
Thanks guys. Made the deal. Getting it Tuesday at 11 am
27 January 2014, 00:36
Atkinson
Id go with the Whitworth and btw it handles recoil much better than a mod. 70...They are outstanding guns for the money and $800 is a real steal these days. They usually sell for up to $1200 in like new condition..so you can't go wrong.


Ray Atkinson
Atkinson Hunting Adventures
10 Ward Lane,
Filer, Idaho, 83328
208-731-4120

rayatkinsonhunting@gmail.com
27 January 2014, 01:10
Ed Scarboro
I have two Win 70's in 375 and a Whitworth in 375---I'd go with the Whitworth.
27 January 2014, 01:49
npd345
this is an easy one..Whitworth!!