Often heralded as the “King of the .22s,” the Winchester Model 52 is widely considered one of the finest bolt-action rimfire rifles ever produced. While the target models dominated competitive shooting for decades, the Winchester Model 52 Sporter represents the pinnacle of rimfire elegance and hunting utility. Prized for its exceptional accuracy, flawless machining, and graceful lines, the Sporter is a holy grail for many collectors.
Acquiring a factory original, blued parts kit for a Winchester Model 52 Sporter is a rare opportunity. For gunsmiths and restoration enthusiasts, these kits provide the essential, meticulously crafted components needed to breathe life back into a classic American rimfire masterpiece.
Typical Kit Components
A factory original parts kit for the Winchester Model 52 Sporter typically includes the following sub-assemblies and hardware, preserved with their original factory bluing:
- Barrel: The signature Sporter-weight barrel, usually 24 inches in length, featuring a brilliant factory-blued finish and the iconic Winchester roll marks. It often includes the beautifully machined ramp front sight base.
- Bolt Assembly: The massive, dual-locking-lug bolt that gives the Model 52 its centerfire-like lockup and legendary accuracy. It includes the firing pin, spring, and the gracefully curved bolt handle specific to the Sporter model.
- Trigger Group: The renowned Winchester 52 trigger mechanism (often the highly desirable Micro-Motion trigger on later models), known for its crisp, clean break.
- Bottom Metal & Magazine: The flush-fitting blued steel trigger guard and magazine well assembly, alongside the original 5-round detachable box magazine.
- Hardware & Fittings: Original blued action screws, sling swivel studs (often the prized super-grade style), and sight blanks or rear sight assemblies.
- Receiver (Varies by Kit): Depending on the kit’s origin and current regulations, it may include a stripped receiver or a demilitarized (cut) receiver piece showing the original serial number ranges and factory stamps.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Winchester Repeating Arms Company |
| Model | Model 52 Sporter |
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) |
| Action Type | Bolt-Action (Dual Locking Lugs) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Barrel Profile | Tapered Sporter Weight |
| Rifling | Right-hand twist, precision target rifling |
| Metal Finish | High-Polish Factory Deep Bluing |
| Magazine Capacity | 5-Round Detachable Box Magazine |
| Trigger | Adjustable Target-Grade (often Micro-Motion on later variants) |
| Front Sight | Ramped hooded blade (typically forged or silver-soldered) |
| Rear Sight | Receiver-tapped for Lyman/Redfield peep sights or barrel-mounted sporting sights |
| Safety | Wing-style or side-lever (depending on A, B, C, or D iteration) |
