I currently have a Winchester model 70 that is from the 90s that is chambered in .308. It is practically brand new. It has only been shot a handful of times. Would I be able to switch the barrel out on that gun for a 6.5 PRC barrel since they are both short action? Is there more that goes into it than just switching the barrel out or it is just as easy as switching the barrel and I should be good to go?
If this is possible I am thinking of getting either a C3 barrel from Fierce or checking out the guys at Preferred Barrel in St George, or a Proof barrel. Any advice or thoughts on those 3 options would be appreciated as well.
I don’t think anyone would make a prefit for a model 70. The manufacturing just isn’t quite consistent enough—particularly because it’s been around so long.
So unfortunately, I think this one would require a gunsmith. You would also need a bolt with a magnum bolt face, and since the 70 is a controlled round feed, that could be expensive.
Unfortunately, it may cost as much as just getting a different action.
I think you can get a variable shoulder barrel from preferred for a model 70 but you will need a headspace go-no go gauge and you will definitely have to change the bolt face if your wanting to change to a PRC. I would recommend going to the 6mm creedmoor that way you won’t have to to swap out the bolt.
@backfire Would this situation still be the same issue with a Remington 700 chambered in 308 instead of a Winchester model 70? Or could I rebarrel the Remington 700 easier?