I have to agree with the Mauser 98 folks . I have had quite a few of both rifles : Mauser Oberndorf Sporters and Pre 64 Model 70 Winchesters mostly pre war versions . I have had 2 problems with the pre 64 . Firstly the Model 70 Winchester uses a cone style breach that basically leaves the back part of the case unsupported . My main problem with the Winchester 70 is the multi piece bottom metal and 4 screws holding this whole conglomeration together . The barrel screw is nothing but a nightmare : very easily stripped . Every pre 64 I have ever had had difficulty maintaining zero. To rectify this mess I eliminated the barrel screw and pillar bedded the other 2 main action screws . I also had new action screws made with beefier heads . If a pre 64 Winchester 70 is to be used for a main rifle I highly suggest doing this and even going further by replacing the entire Winchester bottom metal to a one piece Oberndorf aftermarket type . The Mauser 98 is much superior in handling pressure . Mausers have been used for over a century on every Contenental with no equal. My 98 Sporters never lose their zeros unlike Winchester 70's . I consider the Sako Forester and Finnbear rifles superior to the Winchester 70 . Of course a rifle is a very personal weapon and every person has their own preferences . I can only give you my experience .