As far as $$$ values go, I agree! As for function, a Push Feed works just as well as the "Claw!" If that is the only reason that the Post '64 Winchesters fell out of favor, its a very poor reason! I've never had a problem with either of my Push Feed M-70's!
If you hunt dangerous game, maybe the "Claw" is justified, better yet, maybe a double rifle!
Remmie's never, ever had a "claw" extractor, and no body complains. Maybe the fact that nobody likes "change" is the reason that the pre-64's are considered so much better than the post-64's!