Occasionally we see posts referring the one or more of these M70 variations. Frequently they contain inaccurate or misunderstood information. That’s not at all surprising, considering the lack of available information. Often it’s the standard M70 target version being mistaken for one of these.

In an effort to help clarify, I’ve made up a very condensed description.

-All of these rifles were assembled by the Winchester Custom Shop.

#1-Ultra Match Rifles: (Quantity unknown)

The Ultra Match Rifle was offered in 308 & 30-06 from 1972-1979. This was a custom shop only special order target rifle and was essentially identical to the 1971 Palma rifle but without the Palma inscription on the barrel.

– 26” counter bored heavy barrels with dull non glare finish.

– Matte finish receiver with clip slot. Glass bedded with a reddish brown material.

– These rifles incorporated a newly designed adjustable trigger. The trigger was adjusted via 2 hex screws in the receiver tang.

– Bolt has the bolt sleeve cap with protruding red cocking indicator.

– Stocks were standard marksman variation as found on the Model 70 target. Included were the long accessory rail and large aluminum hand stop.

#2-Palma Match Rifles: (Estimated approx. quantity’s- 1968=60, 1971=100, 1976=140)

The US hosted the international Palma Shooting Match in 68, 71 & 76. All competing teams used identical rifles built and supplied by Winchester by request of the host country (USA). With the exception of 1968 version, these rifles were mostly the same as the Ultra Match but with special barrel markings. The barrel markings were different in all 3 years.

-1968 was Pre Ultra Match. The 1968 Palma differed the most from the cataloged target rifle. It had a completely different heavier, longer (24” vs 26”) counter bored barrel.

-1971 & 1976 are mostly identical to the Ultra Match with a unique barrel marking. All in .308.

#3-International Army Match: (Estimated Quantity 179)

The Intl. Match Rifle was offered 1970-1979. This was a custom shop only special order like the Ultra Match. Offered in .308 with a very few observed in 30-06.

– 24” counter bored medium heavy barrel with dull non glare finish.

– Matte finish receiver with clip slot. Glass bedded with a reddish brown material.

– First to incorporate the newly designed adjustable trigger. The trigger was adjusted via 2 hex screws in the receiver tang.

– Stock conforming to Intl. Shooting Union specs. Deep belly, full pistol grip, Hi comb w/large cheek rest.