Looking to buy a lightweight bolt-gun in .243 or 7-08 for whitetail at less than 100 yards here in the woods in Missouri. Got it down to the Kimber 84M Classic Stainless or a new Model 70 Featherweight walnut/stainless. Question: Kimber has developed a reputation for being somewhat problematic along with some folks being disappointed with the overall quality at that price point. Also, the newer Model 70’s have a slim track record to go by. I am satisfied with the appearance and functional elements of both rifles. What say you? Thanks…
GaryO
Kimber 84M vs. new Model 70?
Kimber
I hunt in SC where 200 yards is a long shot. My Kimber is a sub MOA gun in 7mm-08. the action is smooth, the stock is high tech and light, and the gun is a joy to carry and shoot left or right handed out of a treestand.
I shoot 41.5 grains Varget and 139 grn Hornady SST. Deadly, accurate, lightweight. Worth every penny and I have no interest in carry a heavy gun again in the field.
I have no experience with a Model 70 featherweight, but I do own a pre-64 Model 70 in 30-06. I am going to sell it to buy a Kimber 84L in 270 when a stainless and synthetic stock is offered.
I hunt in SC where 200 yards is a long shot. My Kimber is a sub MOA gun in 7mm-08. the action is smooth, the stock is high tech and light, and the gun is a joy to carry and shoot left or right handed out of a treestand.
I shoot 41.5 grains Varget and 139 grn Hornady SST. Deadly, accurate, lightweight. Worth every penny and I have no interest in carry a heavy gun again in the field.
I have no experience with a Model 70 featherweight, but I do own a pre-64 Model 70 in 30-06. I am going to sell it to buy a Kimber 84L in 270 when a stainless and synthetic stock is offered.
Kimber 84M vs. Win M70
I've been a M70 shooter now for over 40 years, have more than a few. That said, in your position right now, I'd go for the Kimber 84M. Why? Lighter sculped aciton, lighter bolt with faster lock time.
The rifle itself is a scaled down M70 with all the best features without the needless weight of the M70. When I compare my Kimber 84M alongside any of my pre-64's or post '64 models, it's obvious how much more bulk the Winchester has over the Kimber......needless bulk and weight. Just put a M70 bolt alongside a Kimber 84M bolt, and you'll see immediately the weight and bulk savings of the Kimber.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my M70's, but for what you want to do, I'd come home with a Kimber 84M.
My Kimber 84M in 204 Ruger with a Leupold VX-3 4.5-14X (it shot quite well with handloads right out of the gate.)
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You'll end up with a nice rifle either way, but weight and workmanship will probably come into it. Good luck with the decision.
I've been a M70 shooter now for over 40 years, have more than a few. That said, in your position right now, I'd go for the Kimber 84M. Why? Lighter sculped aciton, lighter bolt with faster lock time.
The rifle itself is a scaled down M70 with all the best features without the needless weight of the M70. When I compare my Kimber 84M alongside any of my pre-64's or post '64 models, it's obvious how much more bulk the Winchester has over the Kimber......needless bulk and weight. Just put a M70 bolt alongside a Kimber 84M bolt, and you'll see immediately the weight and bulk savings of the Kimber.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my M70's, but for what you want to do, I'd come home with a Kimber 84M.
My Kimber 84M in 204 Ruger with a Leupold VX-3 4.5-14X (it shot quite well with handloads right out of the gate.)
You'll end up with a nice rifle either way, but weight and workmanship will probably come into it. Good luck with the decision.
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