Winchester Model 52 Custom Target .22 LR 28” Heavy Bolt Action Rifle 1931
SOLD FOR: $1,090.00
LSB#: LSB250718LT141
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 52 (Custom Target Configuration).
Serial Number: 19563
Year of Manufacture: 1931 (Winchester factory serial reference).
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle.
Action Type: Bolt action; fed by detachable box magazine (one magazine included).
Markings: Left barrel marked “— MODEL 52 — WINCHESTER — TRADE MARK — 22 LONG R —”. Patent line present on barrel consistent with early Model 52 production. Multiple Winchester inspection/proof stamps visible on receiver and barrel. Magazine floorplate stamped with “W.” Scope tube stamped “J. UNERTL OPT. CO.” Receiver aperture sight bears the LYMAN running-deer logo with graduated scale.
Barrel Length: 28” heavy contour barrel.
Sights / Optics: Period J. Unertl externally-adjustable target scope mounted in micrometer Unertl-style rings. Receiver fitted with a Lyman micrometer aperture sight (running-deer logo visible). Scope retains two protective covers — one marked “SUPREME” and one marked “BUTLER CREEK.” Scope and mounts show service wear but are complete and period-correct.
Grip Configuration & Condition: Custom target stock with a pronounced, blocky beavertail-style forearm (a broad, full “belly” on the forend that aids stability and bag seating for precise bench/table work), checkered pistol-grip area, and a scalloped buttplate not offered by Winchester. The stock exhibits honest handling wear (dings, small compressions, softened checkering) but no major structural cracks or repairs are visible. Stock shaping and the heavy forend strongly indicate a shooter-level custom build optimized for bag/station shooting and recoil control. Overall stock condition: Good (unrestored, functional).
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One original Winchester detachable box magazine included; spring retention is strong and reliable on inspection. Floorplate shows W marking; magazine shows service wear consistent with long use, but is functional.
Type of Finish: Factory blued metal finish; stock finished in traditional oil.
Finish Originality: Original factory finish; unrestored. Approximately 80%–85% of the original metal finish remains, with thinning in high contact areas and light freckling/oxidation in sheltered spots.
Bore Condition: Bore bright and clean with sharp, well-defined rifling; no fouling or erosion observed. Bore rates 9/10 in this writer’s opinion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains the majority of its original finish (˜80%–85%) and presents as a largely original, custom-configured target gun. Metal shows expected thinning and light handling marks; wood shows cosmetic wear consistent with long service, but no major repairs. Screws show light tool wear. All primary markings are legible and intact. Overall cosmetic grade: Very Good for a 1931 custom target piece.
Mechanics: Bolt cycles correctly, and the action appears complete and serviceable from inspection. Magazine locks up with strong spring tension. The rifle was not fired as part of this inspection; a routine gunsmith check is recommended before competitive or live firing.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Hard case included. Accessories included: J. Unertl scope mounted in Unertl-style rings, two scope covers (SUPREME and BUTLER CREEK), Lyman micrometer receiver sight, one original Winchester detachable magazine, leather sling, and additional small accoutrements stored in case. No factory paperwork or letter included.
Our Assessment:
This 1931 Winchester Model 52 began life as one of the premier American smallbore target rifles, but the example before you is a deliberate, shooter-centric custom. The stock profile is non-factory — featuring a blocky beavertail forearm (a broad, full forend “belly” ideal for bag and table work), a scalloped buttplate not offered by Winchester, and a U-shaped modification to the barrel band — all signs of a skilled gunsmith or competitor tailoring the rifle for precision.
Fitted with a period J. Unertl target scope and a Lyman micrometer receiver sight, and backed by a bright 9/10 bore, strong magazine spring, and 80%–85% original finish, this rifle was built to hold tight groups. Whether it once belonged to an Olympian, a commandant, or a determined marksman, it is the result of purposeful modification aimed at accuracy. In practical terms, expect a tack-driver when paired with quality ammunition and proper seating on the bag.
This lot will appeal to collectors seeking a one-of-a-kind custom Model 52 with period optics, and to shooters after a vintage target rifle already optimized for bench/bag work. A light gunsmith inspection and routine maintenance are recommended before firing. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
