I'd be very surprised that many old M-70s were worn out and thrown away. Most folks know their value even with a shot out barrel.

Many old shotguns actually were thrown away as they got loose and the repair bills was more than their value. Old side X sides have become collectors or family heirlooms and sit in closets or in sealed boxes like the one I have.

However I've never ever seen a wornout bolt action rifle built after WWI. Some needing new barrels maybe...but never seen a wornout bolt action.

I think they're out there somewhere.

You'd be surprised the number of homes that have more than twenty of them!!!!