Model 52 Winchester Sporting Rifle ~ The King of the 22s!

[@kylecarpenter40]

I know you don’t make much (if any) making videos but when ever I get a notification of a new video I truly enjoy your wisdom. Pour a drink, put the phone down and put attention for the next how ever long, cause it’s going to be a pleasure. God bless and don’t change what you’re doing, truly a breath of fresh air for the gun community

[@laurencecallcut1698]

Absolutely Jack C. Just what I'm doing in England now - nothing touches these videos over here.

[@markmadsen6828]

I recall the days when the local drug store would have a "Sportsman" case and would sell ammunition, pellet guns, knives and all kinds of outdoor stuff. Back then most all Hardware stores also sold firearms. It was common to walk in to the local "Sportsman's True Value hardware" store any Saturday morning and find a half dozen Gents huddled over those glass topped gun cases talking about last weekends hunting tales and looking over the new firearms that were popular or new. I do truly miss those days. Thanks for the great videos.

[@rmccorcle]

I agree with the old time gun shops. I grew up around a gun shop in Killeen, Texas,in from the mid 60's to the early 90's. (Which was also known as Ft. Hood area.) Bud's Gun Shop. He and my father were good friends . After Dad passed away in the late 70's, I still remained a loyal customer and friend.

[@baylorcattleguy]

Was that shop kind of downtown and did he have a case full of Winchester 1892s in the 1980s?

[@raginredneck93]

How ironic that you mention listening to tips and stories from the older fellas at the gun shop, considering that for a lot of us it's much the same reason why we enjoy listening to you. My Uncle Ron passed away several years ago, and I just lost my father last January. You remind me very much of them, and listening to your stories and wisdom reminds me of listening and learning from them as a boy, especially about hunting, firearms, handloading, marksmanship, and general outdoorsmanship. Your channel is sort of the modern replacement for those classic gathering places that so many of us miss when firearms were just fascinating mechanical tools for accomplishing a task and building skill. I certainly hope you know that you are very much appreciated for it.

[@robertotto5811]

Perfectly stated.

[@swedvolvo]

One of the best channel along with USOG. I struck luck buying a 52C Us property last year. Gun range buddies are always amazed to see the excellent groups this 60 years old gun can do. Will keep it forever. Keep up the good work. I've learned so much in your videos.

[@cpprcrk1833]

My next door neighbor when I was a kid had a Anschutz model 54 sporter which he said was modeled on the Winchester model 52 . That was a nice balancing and super accurate rifle , and was the closest I personally ever got to firing one .

[@frankwrogg2515]

Those shops at least herein wisconsin are all gone now. Here watching some videos as I just picked up a Winchester 490 at Scheels.

[@rickmansberger4136]

Hello Sir, Because of you I have my 1929 Pre-A Model 52. My gun was used by R C. Pope to win back the Pershing Cup from the Brits in the 1939 Match. The rifle is custom upgraded with a John Dubiel bull barrel, extended beaver tail fore end stock weight and adjustable comb on the stock. This rifle still shoots in almost single hole groups at 100 yards. It is a magnificent example of a true tournament grade competition rifle of that era. I am blessed to own it and Mr. Redmond, bless his soul, always scratched his head wondering how I was able to secure such a rifle like this King of 22's. Timing is everything and Luck be a Lady tonight. Your videos primed the pump and Mr. Redmond filled in the blanks to make this happen. Then I had enough to find the perfect Model 52. I just never thought it would a gun with such a rich history. My you and your family be blessed this holiday season and God Bless Benedict. Merry Christmas Rick Mansberger Redmond Sports Group Love this video

[@GunBlue490]

Thank you Rick. Merry Christmas and God Bless to you and yours.

[@alexanderryzhov7046]

I bought a CZ 457 (a newer version of 452). I was impressed with build quality, and it’s a pleasure to shoot.

[@WellDressedCaveman]

Tack drivers!

[@herman66mi83]

I’m looking into CZ 457 Lux in .22 LR. Glad to hear you like yours

[@bobkmac]

@@herman66mi83 they are about the best quality you can reasonably get these days. Fit & finish is really impressive. Tikka is right there but in cheap plastic stocks. I went with the 457 over the T1X for that reason alone.

[@LatrinaDeshawntey]

Ok

[@twolak1972]

I got a cz 455 lux in 22 wmr and it shoots like a competion range gun. So fun to go into a squirrel woods with 7 shells and come out with 7 fat squirrels.

[@davidwadsworth8982]

I had a newer one of these that I shot oh so good in competition from 1964 thru 1969, won a ton with it. I eventually got better and better peep sights, had customizing to trigger squeeze,even poly stocks and for grip.Went back to wood for balance. Used when I qualified for Army Shooting Team.Had it stolen from parents house when I went on a deployment.

[@GunBlue490]

That's such a shame!

[@retiredtofishwildbill4304]

Thank you for your videos. They are like a history class that we never fell asleep in. We are lucky enough to own a few of the guns you talk about. I only hope that one day my son's find your videos and appreciate them as much as I do. Thanks again

[@georgeflutey838]

Excellent video, thankyou from New Zealand.

[@rickmoore6527]

The fact that you are able to recite names and dates from memory are so very impressive to me. Rhank you for keeping this important history alive.

[@halspencer6613]

Used that model of Winchester .22 when I first learned to shoot in the Boy Scout summer camp. Still have my medals and certificates (i'm 86 this year)

[@wasabiveryhottubeyou]

Mr. GunBlue would make a good President

[@archerpiperii2690]

Maybe. But what sane person would want the job?

[@randomshit898]

@@archerpiperii2690 One who want to make things better.

[@archerpiperii2690]

@@randomshit898 True. However what one person thinks is making things better another is going to think that is making things worse.

[@contacttabcyahoo]

I am so glad I found your Channel at the beginning of my reloading endeavor now at 1.5 yrs! You are a never ending positive source to me and I sincerely appreciate all you have given through your videos. One of these days I may even attempt glass bedding, but only after I watch your videos another hundred times... thank you!

[@lurking0death]

I shot matches with one of these as a teenager. It was beautifully crafted with a buttery bolt action. It was made with such heft and care that you felt you might be handling a large bore African safari rifle. It was an artillery piece.

[@frankwright5528]

A magnificent rifle, magnificently presented Sir! I'm a recent follower and new subscriber. Your continued efforts are appreciated and are a valuable and enjoyable source of information. As a retired federal law enforcement agent (firearms instructor), various firearms have been a significant element in my life, but I have (thankfully) never outgrown my early fascination with the .22 rimfires. I shot 52s (and 40Xs) in smallbore competition in high school. The Win. 52 was a near universal favorite in those days before the sport totally abandoned its military preparedness origins (field-safe trigger pull weight, four-position shooting, repeaters that still looked like rifles, etc.). Over forty years ago I made a 500 mile round trip to pick-up a minty 52C Sporter, very similar to your featured rifle. It was born in 1949 (same as me); it remains minty (unlike me!) and I still hunt with it (albeit carefully). In bolt guns, I own and cherish Anschutz 54 Sporters, CZ 452, Kimber, Walther, et a

[@1963ajackson]

God bless you sir! I truly appreciate all of your content. I've learned a lot and I agree with all of your opinions that I'm aware of. I have to say im a Marlin Model 60 guy, but it was the first rimfire rifle I ever fired.

[@nomansland4811]

I’ve lusted after one of these for years.

[@richardbrentm]

It is great to see a no BS expert regarding this grear US rifle from our great firearms legacy. thank you for your time and effort.

[@jacobsnyder552]

Very nice rifle. I wish there were more manufacturers producing full sized rimfire rifles of the quality once made.

[@cpprcrk1833]

Not sure if they are still in production, but the closest thing your going to find today meeting that description is the Kimber model 82 . They're pricey though .

[@drewgates1167]

Cz. get the jaguare

[@callawayken650]

I have the book, "The Winchester Model 52 - Perfection in Design" by Herbert G. Houze. I found the book at the library book sale. It is soft cover.

[@eb1684]

How much do you want for it?

[@NHGUIDE88]

My first competing here in New Hampshire was with a Model 52D. wish I still had my hands on that rifle.

[@thomaswlawrence]

Thank you for the history of the 52 and the nostalgia of the old local gun shops...

[@davidgendron1953]

Nice indeed!! As for the screws orientation and the fact that they are all in the same orientation, the term is called “clocked” or clocking your screws!

[@GunBlue490]

I'll be sure to remember that! Thanks.

[@pauldeahl3980]

@@GunBlue490 - why were the screws “clocked”? Was it just for looks?

[@M3jet]

Wow. First time watching one of your videos. Truly excellent! Felt like my grandad was sitting by the fire telling us young bucks the way things work. Your firearm knowledge is substantial and thank you for passing a little down to us. I love .22’s and to hear about the “52” made me enjoy the hobby that much more. Thank you. Subscribed!

[@KevinVanSant-u5z]

I was fortunate to find and purchase a Model 52 Sporting a few years back. Manufactured in 1937 and in great condition for its age. I recently fired at the range for the first time and with no previous experience with the Lyman receiver sight, I was amazed at the accuracy of this old rifle. Very impressed with the rifle. Great channel, if only I had a small percentage of this man's knowledge.

[@blackbird_actual]

I always enjoy your videos that include a gun or cartridge's historical background and personal anecdotes.

[@chrysanthosanastasiades9368]

Sir i come from a part of the world that the closest we can get to a gun is a double barrel shot gun or single and to rifles a .177 no limit to power air rifles ,as for game the biggest animal is a hare the rest are birds with the biggest been wood pigeon or partridges ,I hunt with an air rifle shooting a 15grain neilsen slug flying at 1020 ft/sec and i saw all your videos (many of them more than once) and the information knowledge and data gained are invaluable ....much respect many thanks....say HI to Benny from CYPRUS

[@rossilake218]

I absolutely love the videos on Winchester rifles. I poured me a little (2 fingers) glass of Scotch, dig in (dog snoring) and listen to what he has to say. I still have my Browning A-bolt .22cal from 35 years ago. Ahhh! Life is good.. more vids on Savage, Marlin, Henry and all the players. Thank you Sir.

[@davidschmidt6013]

I just saw a video of yours about airguns. This one is even MORE interesting. There's a word for this kind of info and history...it's called " AMERICANA". SO glad I found your channel.

[@combatmedic1980]

I have my fathers 52b target with the bull barrel, with a lyman 15x super targetspot scope with a lee dot. black widow spider hair crosshairs. It still is a 10x cutter shoots through the same hole most of the time. He was the state champion in Pennsylvania in all positions with that rife back in the late 40s and 50s. I wouldn't take anything for that rifle .

[@rustyshackleford2723]

Been looking for a 52...now I know they are amazing....

[@wvmountaineer69]

That's a beautiful rifle, thank you for sharing with us!

[@twolak1972]

The win model 52 B sporter is one of the greatest rim fires ever made along with the Anschutz 54, Remington 40x F grade , Kimber super american grade, Cooper Arms and Remington 541 series. I have a 541 T and its ridiculously accurate.

[@rogermiller4912]

I just love .22 rifles. Thanks for showing us this one.

[@justinmitchell9195]

I hope Mr Gunblu is ok he looks like he’s had a lot on his mind in his last videos. Always top quality videos . Thank you sir !

[@johnsnyder5470]

What a wonderful period listening to you concerning firearm history of the model 52. You have a very pleasant style in your speech and always sound as though you know of what you speak. Thank you for another pleasant few minutes in your presence. God bless you my friend.

[@Paladin1873]

The 52D was our preferred target rifle in JROTC.

[@mwilkinson5474]

The 52D was our ‘club’ rife. That took place in the rifle range in a High School basement, 1965.

[@Paladin1873]

@@mwilkinson5474 We had an outdoor range on the edge of school property. We didn't have enough 52Ds for the whole team, so much of our practice was with Remington 513Ts. Whenever we competed with other schools we used the 52D. It was heavier and proved to be a more stable and accurate platform. I shot left-handed, but still managed to work the bolt with my thumb trigger finger despite all the gear and padding we wore.

[@mwilkinson5474]

@@Paladin1873 thanks for the reply. That club was my introduction into the world of firearms competition. In later years I enjoyed Trap,ML, sporting clays, three gun and bullseye. I’ve met quite a few wonderful and knowledgeable people in doing so.

[@frufru0071]

@@mwilkinson5474 it’s quite something, how kind people in the firearms community are-for the most part. This was another great video "review", & the little sidetracks are always interesting. Thanks for sharing your time with your many fans. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, & Seasons’ Greetings to you, your family, and your 4-legged friend-Benny?!

[@benkanobe7500]

Both my children grew up shooting (once they surpassed their Red Ryders and RWS Dianas) twin, mint, Winchester Model 68s. When my daughter (eldest) turned 18 she wanted to execute her 2A Right and purchase a firearm. She researched and came up with The Winchester Model 52. She purchased a "Pre-Mark A" in perfect condition. That was 9 years ago and the rifle is now worth twice what she paid for it (was never purchased for resale as she will have it all her life) which is amazing. I have shot it and concur it is one of if not the nicest firearm I have ever fired (my Son's Winchester 9422 is a close second). My daughter's is the target model and it is a beautiful thing to hold and admire the extreme craftsmanship. My original 1898 production Winchester 1894 also has extreme craftsmanship, but the finish on the 52 takes your breath away if you admire quality.

[@aceball8]

You sir, knocked it out of the park producing this Win 52 piece. Thanks so much, God Bless. Tom Mc

[@Robert-xk5pm]

Glad to see you are still making videos.

[@grassyacreshomestead700]

Great video, thank you! We just inherited my wife's great great grandfather's Model 52. Serial number indicates 1932 production model. We also have the display case of numerous medals (dozens) he won competing with this rifle.

[@archer721]

Very nice little rifle.

[@joshuagibson2520]

I have a blue stocked Marlin model 2000 target 22lr. Its a sweet gun. Heavy, but very accurate. Its not terribly ammo picky either.

[@waynejenkins6259]

Thanks once again for a well done, informative video. A Model 52 is on my bucket list. I love ,22’s and have accumulated quite a collection over the years. I did just recently acquired a Winchester 69A and a 67. Why, because I didn’t already have either of them. While not a 52, they do represent guns from a different era and are fun to shoot. Keep up the good videos, I find them to be informative and relaxing, much like those conversations with friends down at the gun store.

[@dougharlow6037]

I wished I had a Winchester 52. I have a Winchester 69A and absolutely love it.

[@marcogram1216]

I'm not saying I'm jealous but I'm close. I picked up the "mid-priced" model today. I found a Winchester Model 69a with the aperture sights at the local pawn shop for $250. Man, you guys in the Northeast have some hidden gems still. Congrats and God bless!

[@airmobiledivision7759]

Got the 69A, personally. Handed down many times throughout the years. It shows its age, but I have had zero issues with the action.

[@SmallGameHunter]

Always a pleasure to hear your speak on the subject. Hope you are doing well. Thank you for making these videos.

[@wjgrind]

I had to laugh towards the end of your video. You described my model 52, it is a pre A made in I believe 1921 with a three digit serial number. I got from an old time target shooter when I was young (I'm going on 76 now) and the side of the receiver is tapped for a scope mount and it has an updated sight like yours. I think the original rear sight was a 82A? Good video GunBlue

[@chuckmid]

I just looked at my inherited Grandfathers 1947 52B Sporter, All of the flat head screws line up perfectly. Thank you for that bid of knowledge!

[@TheKasmir65]

HE HAS A IMPRESSIVE RESUME!!! I LOVE LISTENING TO HIM.🎄

[@Brian.N]

Great video!! I really enjoy listening to you talk about gun history.

[@mattsmith6297]

I just bought one almost identical to the one you have here at a Rock Island Auction...man am I excited to get my hands on it and keep in the family for a long time. Thanks for all the great info - Matt

[@leonardjanda6181]

Happy to see you as always.great find in the rifle absolutely a classic, I have the same site on a old mod 99 savage. Listen 👂 to you talk is like it was with my father. Great job SIR🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Nick-ih3xg]

My dad's got a 1926 model 52, (not a sporter). Awesomely accurate rifle.

[@AF-O6]

Really love this rifle. It would go great with a Model 21, Model 70, and a S&W 5-screw .22. Thank you for showing it off.

[@Bill-jv5eg]

Great looking 52, I had a pre 64 52D Bull B, peep sights,,, years ago, shot in a four position league plus owned a 52B and a model 75,,,I traded them a Trading Post in Kittery on a Skeet over under years ago.. This video bring back memory, Thanks!

[@CumberlandOutdoorsman]

Last winter I attended a local gun show. After browsing around and buying a little Marlin 60, I happened upon one vendor's table and there lay a Winchester model 52. I had never actually seen one in person, just pictures and videos. Well I picked it up and held it ........then I layed it back down and went onward to browse the rest of the show. The whole time I wandered around that rifle was in my mind, as if someone was prompting me to go back to that table. As I made my way back, I saw a fellow holding that rifle. After he layed it back down, I casually returned back to the table, and started to strike up a deal with the seller. After some haggling we agreed on a price and I ended up with that little Winchester 52. It is also a "sporting" model, and is a fine shooter. As I headed out the door, I was stopped twice and was asked if my rifle was for sale. I am now proud to add it to my collection, and will eventually become an heirloom to my Grandson. Great video of a legendary rifle. Well done.

[@chefwho1797]

Thank you Sir, i have recently found your channel; and also recently started shooting. You are very informative, extremally knowledgeable & wise... I'd love to have a Dewar's and a cigar with you... You are Awesome!!!

[@silvermediastudio]

Buddy of mine picked up a M52 Sporter this past year. What a beauty. The details and workmanship are just phenomenal. And it's a shooter, still prints ragged holes at 100y with Eley Match (scoped).

[@waynehendrix4806]

Thank you sir for your excellent way of sharing history, as always. Best regards.

[@johnlindgren6546]

Awesome video! I have a model 70 30-06 that originally belonged to my dad. Built just prior to the war. I’ll always keep it.

[@dogbone1358]

Nice 52. I have a 52 Type A Speed Lock circa 1931 with a Marlin Ranger 4x scope with some military history.

[@rodbrown6434]

Ive been shooting this rifle for about 80 years ! The scope on it is a 4X Fecker small game scope. It is a half minute of angle rifle or better with even the cheapest 22 ammo. It has a sterling silver pistol grip cap with my Dad’s name and address on it. The silver pistol grip cap was a gift from our Winchester factory rep. (James LeVack) To my Dad! When he regularly visited our Browns Hardware gun dept. Note…the barrel is stamped 1933. But the rifle may have been built circa 1935-1937

[@gordonrizzuti6048]

Dear Gunblue, I am so glad I found your channel this year. You have no idea how much I appreciate you sharing your experience with us. I've listened to scores of your videos and have and benefitted greatly. I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your efforts. I wish you, family and pooch have a Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year! May God richly bless you and your household. Gordon

[@outboardfun3353]

I think Anschutz may come in to play when you want to talk about the King of .22

[@robertduncan2742]

Thanks sir, a old guy learning more in life again thanks and be safe and you and yours stay healthy. See your films again

[@jma5623]

Beautiful rifle. Thank you for the informative video. I learned a lot. Your videos are always great.

[@64samsky]

Wonderful video! I always look forward to see new ones from you. And from sunny Florida, Merry Christmas to you, the Mrs. and Benny!

[@addisonrunge6760]

What a fantastic story.

[@dougcutler5404]

I'd love to have a model 52 in my gun safe right beside my gorgeous Weatherby Mark XXII, and my CZ 452 Grande Finale thanks for another great video GunBlue490, God Bless

[@curtise.gill67]

The marlin semi auto tube fed from the 80s-90s is mine. I killed more critters with that thing than i can count. Birds wouldn't even fly within 200 yards of my house lol. Gotta love a .22 Thank you for your knowledge and time.

[@colostomybag9367]

This man is a living a piece of American history, Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@stephenhair5501]

Good to see you back!! Thank you for this very informative video on such a fine rifle. Hope everyone is well. Merry Christmas and God Bless.

[@daveaver]

Happy Holidays everyone. Thanks for the Model 52 chat GB.

[@geico1975]

WOW! GunBlue 490 is taking us down all kinds of gun rabbit holes:) I'm pretty sure he's already forgotten what I know about guns:) Love the information.

[@guymuto4054]

My "52" is the target model with an Unertl 30x with AO and spider web cross hairs.Still competitive with the best of Anschutz rifles. Love it and shoot it. Get offers for it every time I go to the range.

[@justin1563]

So much history, and such a great story teller.

[@highplainsdrifter9631]

I have been wanting an Anschutz 1410 HB for years, along with a Winchester Model 52! I have a fascination with high grade 22 LR rifles, and I was fortunate enough to add a Steyr Zephyr II to the collection last year.

[@drivesideways6550]

Always enjoy your videos!

[@jcarne1015]

And God bless you, Sir. I have a model 52 with the bull barrel, that came with a massive Bausch & Lomb (sp?) scope, a real old-timer. Unfortunately, the previous owner stored the rifle in an aircraft hangar in Florida, and there is major rust damage to the bore. Been looking now and then for a barrel, but am going to have to put a lot more effort in to finding one. I grew up next door to a private shooting range, owned by an old guy who shot 22 rifle competition. When I knew him, he only shot local matches, where the top prize was a box of chocolate covered cherries. He usually won them.

[@anitafisch7558]

Mine has that same site with the original box purchased for $12.75. Shoots lights out.

[@nektariosnektarios1704]

Yeah your back we missed you!

[@dougrogers835]

I just bought a 1931 production with period Weaver scope. Model 52 competition. I swear it looks like the MFG gunsmith handed it to me from his work table. It looks brand new. I don't even know how that is possible. Thanks for the great video. Guess I gotta look for a Sporter model as well.

[@frankwright5528]

Stepped away from keyboard - and cat submitted my Comment! I own and enjoy a nice collection of .22s, but consider this 52C Sporter my favorite. Your fine presentation has prompted many pleasant memories with this rifle! Again, thank you. Merry Christmas. God Bless.

[@baylorcattleguy]

What a dream rifle! These videos always inform and entertain.

[@bobkmac]

Loved to see a nod to the CZ’s. CZ is how I was able to get my foot in the door on quality rimfires. I’ve got a cz455 scout for my kid’s training (yeah I also saw your video on not starting on rifles with good triggers... too late) and a 457 American for m squirrel gun. And I used to think my ol mans Remington 512 was such a shooter! Lol, now it is relocating to safe duty and the shooting of shorts.

[@MrRufusjax]

Thanks Gunblue490. Learned so much from you over the past few years. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

[@ely336]

Thanks for another excellent video and sure glad Benny is doing OK. What a wonderful classic rifle. This gun is a treasure to own and it couldn't get a better home than you. Merry Christmas to you and all of your family.👍🇺🇸🐶

[@ar6985]

Congratulations on a magnificent find!! They don't come much better than a 52 sporter. It will should shoot one hole groups at 25 and 50 yards.

[@cmaster0368]

Thank you for this wonderful video. Loved the history, and it reminded me of gun shop days of old, and of my old WWII vet friends and the guns they loved and taught me to love. I raise a glass of good blended Scotch to you, sir. Now I must begin the prowl for one of these magnificent Model 52 Sporting Rifles. The hunt will be enjoyable!

[@markchoate9021]

I always enjoy your videos and this was no exception. Wonderful history and knowledge. I was fortunate to stumble upon a Model 52 at a local gun show, this past weekend. The vendor was selling it for his father in law and the price was very good. So, I now own one and yes, it is a tack driver. According to the serial number, it was manufactured in 1932 so it has the speedlock feature but was before the Sporter series. Thanks again.

[@dowdawg]

Wow what a terrific find!!

[@johnnorman7708]

I got to shoot indoor competition with a bull barrel 52 Winchester back in 1980. National Guard rifle. Your rifle is a beauty. Bet she is a tack driver with standard velocity target ammo.

[@ironDsteele]

That is a very fine rifle. I'm shooting an Italian made Weatherby Mark xxii which is compact in size and wonderfully accurate. Would love to have a Mark V in .22lr !

[@bishop060902]

Thank you sir for your knowledge.

[@dingo5208]

I recently inherited a 1945 lee enfield no 7 with chest and wartime EIS and a mossberg 151 M. Most accurate 22's I have ever shot. I am more practiced with my 10/22 but love those two new to me guns.