I often read here about "pre '64". What is it and why is it so valued.

Second, if it was really that good (and not just legend) why doesn't the manufacturer re-make them?

Boy are U opening a can of worms. Be ready! I personally don't think they are all that hot. After you hear from others, well just wait. I have always prefered Remington rifles. Out of the box they are the most accurate I have ever owned. And yes, Ihave owned one (1) pre-'64 Winchester and I sold it a very long time ago. It just would not shoot straight, even with trying the reloading route. MHO

They were fairly well made factory rifles especially by todays standards. They have become collector items due to suply and demand. I will say that remington has always made good typewritters and shavers!

In 1964 Winchester changed the Model 70 from a controlled round feed to a push feed. Up until that time the Winchester was considered a rifleman's rifle. The one I have in a 264 win mag was called the "Westerner", has a 26" blued stainless steel barrel. Winchester just recently went back to the controlled round feed but it was too late for Winchester who is now out of business.

My 264 win mag shoots 125 gr Nosler Partitions into 1/2" most days. I don't want to hunt with it because it is unmodified and is about 98% condition.