Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Rimfires Identify Winchester Model 52

Besides the price, what are the differences between the original Winchester Model 52 which they stopped making in 1961 or so, and the Winchester repro versions of the early 90's? I'd like one or the other and just wonder about what's different...

Jaywalker

Original 52's came in many different configurations and models, all the way from Pre 52A, to 53A through 52E. Most of the early 52's were target models, and the sporters they did make are scarce, and go for big bucks today.
The 52 Repro's were made from about 1991 through about 1998, by Miroku in Japan. There three manufacturing runs of these. The first was for 3000, and IIRC all were the Winchester model. There were Browning Models made too, maybe 1500 of them. The only difference was the stock. All told, there were about 5000 rifles made, counting both the Win and Browning configurations.
I have one of the Winchester 52 repro models. These have a better looking stock than the Browning, per my taste anyway. They are the best kept secret as far as buying a high grade 22 sporter for a very low price, with many features found only on rifles like Cooper makes. But, the Repro's cost about half of what a Cooper costs.
The Micromotion trigger on the repro is far and away the best factory trigger ever installed on any rifle made in America, either rimfire or centerfire.
The designation for the repro is Winchester 53B, or Browning 52B, whichever the case may be. But, I don't think the Micromotion trigger was originally installed on early 52's until the 52C's came out. Everything else with the repro is exactly like the original Winchester 52B Sporter.
I sure like mine.

Don

Thanks, Don, I appreciate the intel.

I have a chance to buy a Winchester-marked sporter, and I have to assume it's a repro for $500, but it does look new. On the off chance someone mis-marked an original sporter, can you tell me the visible differences between the original and the repro?

Jaywalker

The reproductions were made in Japan and are marked as such. An original Winchester 52 Sporter would be marked as having been made in New Haven, CT.

I've owned both the Browning and Winchester/USRA versions. I like the Winchester/USRA version better, as it has a classic style of stock in lieu of the monte carlo style on the Browning. Mine is a Utah Centenniel edition, sn 100UT04xx.

The only thing that I don't like is that the shape of the bolt handle requires you to use medium height rings. Since the bolt handles are easy to change, I bought a spare bolt handle and modified it for use with low scope rings. If you can get 1 in excellent condition for around $500, I think that you will be pleased with the rifle and feel that it was $$ well spent. If you don't like it, I'd expect that you'd be able to sell and at least break even at $500.

Jeff

Thanks, I thought so, too, but I've been wrong before. I appreciate the input.

Jaywalker

Don, you're correct.

Harry Sefried designed the Micro Motion trigger in 1946, but it wasn't offered in the 52 until August of 1951 when the 52 type C was introduced.

I read an interview of James Mellon (African Hunter) some years ago. He commented that he still enjoyed squirrel hunting using his 52 Sporter.

JB

I have one of the Winchester repro's as well. Have tried to buy a 2nd one a few times, but usually found out about good deals too late. $500 for one in like new condition is a great deal. I bougght mine from a friend that sold it to help finance a Cooper. His Cooper is nice, but I prefer the Winchester. With good match ammo, mine will put 5 shots into less than 1/4" at 50yds consistently - maybe even better with a better, higher power scope with a thinner crosshair (shot these with a Simmons 44Mag - duplex was too thick for my tastes).

It's an estate sale. I'm also buying a Savage Anschutz 22LR - something on the 64 action, but I don't recall the exact model.

One thing I'm really looking hard at isn't priced yet - a 7x57 on a G33/40 action with octagonal barrel, sights, and a really elaborate walnut stock.

Jaywalker

Jaywalker,
For the price of $500, I'd grab it now.. New ones being sold are going for a lot more.

JB,SC,

Thanks for your usual good words!!! I do love that trigger.

Does a bolt that's been bent to accomodate lower scope rings change that? Is $500 still a good price? (The owner just finalized the price.)

Jaywalker

Yes, as you can buy a correct/unaltered bolt handle and they are pretty easy to install.

Jeff

Yes, that is a very good price.

Don

Okay, I agree, but I've thought about it and decided not to buy it. I'm really looking for something lighter and simpler and have decided on a Savage Anschutz Model 164, also a part of the estate sale. I appreciate everyone's help on this - it was a good deal, but I realized I wanted to go in a different direction.

Jaywalker