I have this Pre 64 in 270 SN 5231X
The bolt on this is different over the other Pre 64s. I was wondering if anyone know what this is? Or a value?
A pre-war gun, looks like someone polished the bolt handle and jewelled the bolt body. Gun would be more desirable/valuable without the modifications.
IF the unobservable balance of the rifle is in similar overall condition to what can be seen... The rifle is valuable. Prewar, add collector points. Untapped receiver bridge, 'suggesting' potential of wider rifle originality. True that generally such adornment & polish of the bolt are negatives, but 'relatively' small ones. If the stock is without the typical aftermarket recoil pad, I'd say the rifle is potentially - subject to 'whole picture' - "substantially original". I personally like the prewar features of clip loading when relevant to the chambering. Also the quality in the prewar and early postwar era, offering actions just a bit smoother - to my experience! The so-called "flag" safety also classic!
To me, if otherwise original, this rifle remains a 'premium era' model!
A generalization across the board. The definition of "collectible" has morphed materially over the postwar decades. The small "flaws" that denied such status in the past, are now often embraced as "adding character", or some such. Substantially mismatched rifles nowadays are more easily advocated as yet "collectible". For me Jim, your rifle appears great! Beauty in the 'aspect and the eye'.
Just my take
Best!
John
Polished bolt handle and jeweled bolt body are easily restored to original appearance, neither are irreversible modifications.
The electro-penciled S/N on the bolt is gone forever, it’s the little things on a gun that make a difference.
The S/N can be re-applied using the same electro-pencil as the factory used. I've done several and no one was any the wiser.
Never represented it as original, If it's the rifle's original bolt I don't see why it would matter. In some instances jeweling doesn't obliterate the markings, I just restored them.
What about the solid bolt the others have a hollow or hole in the bottom this one is solid?
The guys will correct me but I thought it was around 52-54 they started drilling the bolt but I’m not near my Rule book.
That is correct. All bolt handles were drilled after 1954. Except maybe those that were pulled from inventory clean-up.
What it is is a fine rifle. Use it, don’t abuse it, and enjoy it.