Winchester M70 (Post 92) Stiff/Sticking Safety

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BigHutch

New member
Just picked up a used Winchester M70 (Post 92, New Haven CT) and noticed that the safety going from fire to safe is VERY VERY stiff/sticking. It's hard to move it to safe, and I've contemplated a hammer tap a couple of times. What can I do, if any, or take it to my local smith?

Thanks in advance!
 
First clean it.Use Kroil and let it soak for an hour or so.If it is just crud inside this will take care of it.If you are ok with taking the weapon apart then check for any burrs on the safety.
 
I had a similar issue with my Model 70 Coyote in 7mm WSM. I took it to the local Winchester repair shop and they said they found small pieces of metal inside that were causing the issue. I have no idea how to help you dig into it and correct the problem yourself. Just offering my experience with a similar problem. Good luck
 
Note that the safety will be a bit stiff going from fire to safe, as it has to cam the firing pin back off the sear.

Jim
 
Me too

I have two Model 70's (.243 & 7x57). The 7x57 has had a stiff safety for as long as I can recall. It has not bothered me as I seldom use a safety and only chamber a round when I am about to fire. However it is now completely seized and no amount of soaking in penetrating oil makes any difference.

So I am now taking it to a friendly armourer as you have to put the safety at "half cock" in order to disassemble the bolt for cleaning. I wouldn't tap it with a hammer if I were you.

The .243 safety works fine. Let us know how you get on please.

David.
 
There have been some issues with burrs on the bolt catch causing the safety and/or firing pin to bind. Disassemble the bolt and check for burrs and shavings. Take the rifle action out of the stock, remove the trigger and do the same. If you're not familiar or comfortable with either, see a gunsmith. It shouldn't take long to find and correct a few burrs if nothing else is damaged.


http://media.winchesterguns.com/pdf/om/model70_manual_om_s.pdf
-7-
 
Thanks 7mmnut (a great calibre btw).

The problem is that you can't disassemble the bolt without putting the safety at the intermediate position and if the safety won't budge .......!!

I'll let a gunsmith look at it. I don't want to force it.

David
 
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