By the serial number.
My understanding is there is a receiver screw at the base of the lever that the post 1964 models do not have. The post-64 began with serial number 2,700,000.
The ranger was 1 inch shorter from shoulder to triger.this one was made for a child. The trapper is the adult version
Production of the Model 63 ended in 1959.
look for the # on the trigger area
The last model 70 in 1963 was #581471. 1964 started with #700000.
The Winchester model 120 ranger was a economy version of the Winchester model 1200 shotgun.the model 1200 was produced during 1964-1981,and the ranger was also produced during this time.
I don't have the Fjestad book with me, but I can tell you that it's after 1964, probably in the 1968-1969. Definitely not a pre 64 model.
Your winchester model 1894 was made in the 1964-1965 time frame.I am afraid that is all that I can offer you.
Buy the serial number.If your Winchester model 70 rifle has a serial number lower than 581,470,then it was made prior to the manufacturing changes in 1964.
Proofhouse.com has sn data The serial number will tell you the date of manufacture. Go to this site: http://armscollectors.com/sn/windates.htm
The model number should be stamped into the barrel near the Winchester name. It will say "model" or "model of"
the model number and serial number will give you the information,then ask your question here and you should be able to determine if your Winchester is a pre-64.