vanguard s2 vs. model 70

[Ian Johnson]

Ok I cant decide between getting a featherweight m70 in 308 or a vanguard s2 deluxe in 308, any input? Mabey another rifle in the same range I should take a look at?

Thanks
Ian

 

[HexHead]

I've got a Vanguard S2 Synthetic in .308 and I'm very happy with it. Enough I just got another one in .223. I'm a fan of 2-stage triggers, and the one on the VS2 is really nice. My rifle more than delivers on Weatherby's Sub-MOA accuracy guarantee.

But it's no lightweight at 7 1/2 lbs. However it does soak up recoil nicely. If lightweight is a priority for you, the Tikka is supposed to be a very nice rifle from what I read.

 

[jmr40]

The Vanguards are good rifles, but better suited to larger magnum rounds. They are heavy. You'll be close to, or over 9 lbs with a scope and mounts depending on what you choose.

The Featherweight is a featherweight in name only. About 6 3/4 lbs in 308, but by modern standards that is middle of the road. You should be able to keep the scoped weight to 7.5-7.75lbs if you choose mounts and scope carefully. Other than Weatherby most manufacturers are making 7 lb standard rifles and there are many out there at just a hair over 6 lbs. A Kimber in 308 will be just over 5 lbs.

For me the FWT is clearly the winner here. You get a traditional CRF action, all steel construction, decent to great wood depending on the individual rifle. It is not the lightest. It won't be as accurate as a heavy bull barreled target gun, but they are just the best balanced all around hunting rifle made in my opinion. Heavy enough to shoot well, but not a burden to carry up in the mountains.

The new production Winchesters are the best made sub-$1,000 gun out there in my opinion.

 

[adelbridge]

s2 stock and matte finish are kinda cheap and the aftermarket parts are lacking. They both shoot great.

 

[C-grunt]

If I were buying a new off the shelf rifle for hunting it would be the M70 without a doubt. However my Tikka T3 is really nice.

 

[SlowFuse]

My S2 is a very good shooting rifle for the price. The stock is the weak point in my opinion, but not bad enough for me to rush to replace it. The mold seams get on my nerves at times, a shortcut Wby took to reduce costs i guess. Constant 3/4" groups at 100 with handloads, caliber is 25-06.

What hex and jmr said on weight is right. Mine isnt exactly a joy to lug around all day, but its my favorite rifle to bring out on the bench lately.

 

[Geno]

Vanguards are nice, M70s are nicer, and USA-made. I own both, and like both. Did I mention that the M70 is USA-made?

Geno

 

[Lloyd Smale]

would sure be a no brainer for me. FEATHERWEIGHT!!

 

[CB900F]

Ian;

That's a no-brainer for me also. Winchester!

900F

 

[skoro]

I have both a Vanguard and a M70 Featherweight. The Vanguard is a good rifle, but the Featherweight is better.

 

[mdauben]

Another vote for the M70.

 

[jogar80]

M70... for sure

 

[Ian Johnson]

thanks guys, I handled the jack o connor tribute rifle today, gorgeous wood, think im gonna go that route, definitely worth the extra money for the wood alone

 

[thomis]

You can't even class these two rifles together. The Vanguard is Weatherby's cheap japanese version of their higher grade counterparts. The Featherweights they are turning out from the new SC factory are unbelievable in fit, finish and accuracy. Mine shoots everything superbly.

 

[nathan]

Save some more and get the M 70, a classic of all things Americana! If i want one, id get the 7mm Rem Magnum for that big whallop.