Background moment. The "Gopher Special" was a Winchester Factory variation. A small group of rifles contracted by Gopher Shooter Supply a firm in, as I recall, the Dakotas. Based on the pre '64 Model 70 action in Featherweight configuration. "Gopher" variation as a "sightless barrel" of standard 22". Available only in 30-06, .270 & .243 Winchester chamberings. The stock of Monte Carlo configuration consistent with scope use mandated. Model 70 serialization in late 1959 through 1961.
No distinctive "Gopher"/such nomenclature on these rifles. The specs above constituting 'the Duck'. If it it quacks to such tune, it's presumptively a Gopher Special category Duck!
That making it more collector valuable. That also making it candidate for faking. The pesky aft dovetail sight slot in the ordinary Featherweight as required "deletion", technically most difficult to deal with as faking. The other dimension, as all collectible Winchesters, "factory original" status. Original barrels themselves the 'core' essential component. Receivers and stocks substituted 'du jour' and that, without observing niceties of above specs, often providing a strong instant tilt to a knowledgeable collector.
The allegation of the same barrel configuration by any other name, to be of equal value. Not so, if objectively in collector context. The claims of rare factor variations or factory special orders... Fill the annals of rifle owner claims. Most wishful thinking as trying to legitimize their 'finds'.
The O/P here, to his credit didn't come here with such claims. Unfortunately from the visuals provided, his rifle SN is about 1955 production date and thus too early for Gopher era. The stock isn't displayed in manner to confirm the MC feature either. Last, the blue on the action, isn't original and barrel as ? pending better visuals; now point moot!
The rifle appears a very nice pre '64 Model 70 in ultimately useful .270 Win chambering. Assuming it shoots well, a very nice package. Leaving valuing its worth in dollars to others!
Best!
John
