I just looked at both and bought the Ruger. BUT, I liked the safety on the Winchester better. It was larger and, for me, easier to engage/disengage. I really didn't see a huge difference in the fit and finish between the two and was rather unimpressed with several (of both makes) that I looked at. I guess you really have to pick and choose. A Winchester M70 was about $180 more than the Ruger here. I didn't see the justification for the cost difference.