That indescribable "something" that is the allure of the old M70 and which draws the attention of discerning riflemen is also that which deflects the ministrations of customizers who are giddy about altering 700's to beat the band.
M70's are icons from that era of 1937 to 1964 - working stiffs who dreamt of their ideal rifle usually pictured a M70, but settled for a Remington or Savage as a darned good (and cheaper, and better in some respects) alternative. It was the standard against which the rest were compared though, always. When a M70 was acquired, it was treated as an instant heirloom. A Remington was treated as an efficient tool. (Remingtons of that era are nowadays treated to heirloom status too, but more because of our forebears who used them to put meat on the table and keep the wolf from the door. Their place in our hearts is further cemented by their strength, accuracy, and, er, customize-ability.) The M70, for right or wrong, keeps on exuding that same mystique that drew Gramps to it 70 years ago. Someone who would stick a plastic stock on a pre-64 M70, and then a bipod, and maybe give it a weatherproof coating would be called a two-timing four-flusher in many circles. Do that to a 721/722/700 and you're a man of good taste.
Anyway, that's how I see it.
Last edited by gnoahhh; 03/30/21.
