Winchester Model 52-D Target 52D 28″ .22 LR Single Shot Bolt Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,726.00
LSB#: WY240801RM004
Make: Winchester
Model: 52 Type D Target
Serial Number: 114279D
Year of Manufacture: 1963-1964
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Shot, Bolt Action, Rimfire Target Rifle
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK- / -MADE IN U.S.A.-“, “-MODEL 52-22 L. RIFLE- / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-” and with an ovalled “WP” proof. The proof is also marked on the left of the chamber ring next to the serial number “114279D”. The right of the chamber is marked “WINCHESTER / TRADE MARK”. We do not see any markings on the bolt.
Barrel Length: 28?, Tapers from approximately 1? at the receiver to approximately 7/8? at the muzzle. This is a Heavy Target barrel for the 52D.
Sights / Optics: There are three sight blocks installed on the barrel, one at the muzzle-end, one at the chamber, and one rear of center. The front block has a Redfield Olympic globe-style sight installed. The sight accepts interchangable inserts with an aperture insert currently installed. The left-rear of the receiver is drilled and tapped with a Redfield Palma sight installed on a Redfield W-490 mount, adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth walnut with a pistol grip, straight comb, and serrated black rubber Winchester buttpad. The forend has an inlet 13 1/2? factory accessory rail. The front edges of the forearm are drilled for 2 screws which are part of the adjustable barrel bedding system. The screws bear against the otherwise free-floating barrel. The stock has some scattered minor nicks, scuffs and scratches. There are nicks in the front of the comb from bolt-removal. There is one more notable ding below the comb on the right toward the rear. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The pad shows light wear. The stock is in Very Good-plus overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor marks. There are infrequent tiny freckles of oxidation. The action shows light operational wear. The screwheads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included are the installed handstop and sights.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 52 was a bolt-action .22-caliber target rifle introduced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1920. For many years, it was the premier small-bore match rifle in the United States, if not the world. Known as the “King of the .22’s,” the Model 52 has been called by Winchester historian Herbert Houze “a perfection in design”. The Model 52 was finally discontinued in the 1980s because it was costly to manufacture, and its popularity had wained to expensive European rifles. The Model 52 underwent several changes over its life, and although different model names were not advertised, and the barrel markings remained the same, letter suffixes were added to the serial number to designate significant design changes. Considered one of the greatest of all time American 22 rifles, Winchester continued to market and produce the Model 52 for decades. It is such a beloved favorite that Winchester continued to manufacture this rifle at a loss to the company during its final years. Evolving from a first-class general target rifle into a precision tool that represented the United States in world competitions, the Model 52 is a classic design that belongs in your collection. This example comes equipped with a fantastic set of Redfield sights, ready to hit the range. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
