Howdy,
I saw a model 70 .243 that at first glance I figured was a "pre 64", but checking s/n I found it was made in 1966 like 830,000 or so.
Gun is in nice shape couple stock dings metal looks good, has the "flat/matte" finish receiver. The one thing that stood out to me is that on the grip cap there is a red W Winchester logo. I really don't know much about Winchesters so wanted to ask if there is any significance to that grip cap. I've not seen that on a rifle before, but think maybe on a newer shotgun. Anyway, if anyone could provide any info Id appreciate it. Thanks

The grip caps with the red W were on early post-64 M70’s for a couple years. Not really significant

Agreeing with Ponocojack above but as expanding... These "W" caps for me are symbolic of the "formative period" of early post '64 Model 70 iterations. Such, redefining the tolerance of its loyal fans to a less than mediocre product. I view 1968 Model line as the first year of restoring the brand to something of it's old glory such as intro of the novel "bolt guide" design as materially improving the push feed action (later also incorporated in the renewed CRF models) and better job of stocks design.
Just my take!
Best!
John

Not very popular but ime as accurate as any Model 70. Solid, well built rifles. Mine in 270 win

thanks for info. I guess 1964-1967 rifles took a beating by consumers and gun writers, so in '68 Win tried to improve a bit. I can probably buy it for $500 so for a hunting gun, if it shoots good it should be worth that.
Thanks again

I bought a new M70 30-06 in 1964. As best I recall it had a red W on the grip, jeweled bolt and the then new free-floating barrel (the barrel wasn’t centered in the channel). Just a kid, didn’t know anything about the pre-64’s