1927 Winchester Model 52 Bolt Action Rifle in .22LR, 27 ½” Barrel. C&R

SOLD FOR: $855

WOA#: WY240213CS008

Make: Winchester

Model: 52

Serial Number: 11169

Year of Manufacture: 1927

Caliber: .22LR

Action Type: Bolt Action, Mag-fed

Markings: This rifle has “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CONN /  PATENTED NOV 11.18 25. DEC 9. 1919. FEB 17. MAR 30. APR 27. 1920 / MODEL 52 WINCHESTER TRADE MARK / 22 LONG R.” With some proof marks. The serial is on the side of the barrel.

Barrel Length: 27 ½”

Sights / Optics: This rifle has a raised dovetail front sight blade with a Lyman rear peep sight. There is a large dovetail on the receiver and taper mounts tapped into the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a single piece wood stock with a semi-pistol grip and straight comb with a knurled buttplate. The steel buttplate has a patin. The stock has some small scratches and minor pressure dents. The bottom of the forend has some small finish scuffs. The barrel bands are worn of finish and have some small rust spots. There are no cracks or scratches. The LOP is 13” Overall the stock rates at a Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The bolt is lightly worn, there are light scratches and some finish wear on the barrel. There is some light surface rust on the bottom metal Overall this rifle is in Very Good 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: This rifle comes with a 5 round magazine.

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 52, introduced in 1920, is a bolt-action rimfire rifle celebrated for its precision and craftsmanship. Designed by T.C. Johnson, it features a manually operated bolt action and is primarily chambered in .22 Long Rifle caliber. What sets the Model 52 apart is its meticulous engineering, boasting a match-grade barrel and finely tuned trigger mechanism that contribute to its exceptional accuracy. This rifle quickly earned a reputation as a top choice among competitive shooters and marksmen. Its outstanding accuracy made it a favored tool in various shooting disciplines, including small-bore target shooting, benchrest shooting, and Olympic competition. Over time, the Model 52 underwent several design variations and improvements, such as alterations to the stock design, sight configurations, and barrel lengths, catering to different shooting preferences and competition rules.

The Winchester Model 52’s success extended beyond the range, achieving notable victories in competitive shooting events like the National Matches at Camp Perry and international competitions. Its reliability and precision contributed to numerous championship wins and record-setting performances. Despite production ceasing in the 1970s, the Model 52 remains highly esteemed among shooters, collectors, and enthusiasts. Its historical significance, outstanding performance, and association with competitive shooting history continue to make it a sought-after rifle for those seeking precision and quality in their firearms. -R.E.