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September 21, 2023
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Hi all – wanted to get any information ya’ll might have about the care and feeding of a rifle I found at a local estate sale – it is a little out of the realm of my more typical US longarm collecting focus. I believe it is a pre-A model 52 in pretty decent condition. Came with the original scope box and two extra magazines. I gave $1080 out the door for it.
Let me know if there are any extra photographs or information I have not included that would help, and thanks in advance!
kkk
November 1, 2013
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You got the rifle for just about what the scope is worth! Rifle alone is in the $900-1000 range. DOM: April, ’28; the “Speedlock” variation. You might check Gun Broker for comparable values. Good thing is, still retains original rear sight, though front is a common period replacement.
November 7, 2015
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Nice! For feeding recommendations I’d start with standard velocity target ammo and don’t be alarmed if it shoots well enough to like the expensive stuff. Clarence is right, you got a great deal. If it doesn’t turn out to be your cup of tea a serious 52 collector will gladly let you turn a reasonable profit.
Mike
September 21, 2023
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Thanks gentlemen! I was pleased to be able to get it. The most purist collectors would probably quibble over a couple of things I’ve just noticed going over it. It looks like there was something on the bottom of the stock at some point (maybe a plate or something for a bipod or rest?):
And for the scope, it looks like someone engraved adjustment reminders (right, down, arrows) on the knobs as can be seen in one of the photos.
For me, those don’t matter to my purpose with the rifle. I intend to get some good shooting out of it, and it will go in the rotation for teaching my kids as well.
November 1, 2013
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Lead Snowstorm said It looks like there was something on the bottom of the stock at some point (maybe a plate or something for a bipod or rest?):
Attachment for base of palm-rest. Doesn’t alter value. Can’t say there’s any great value to it, but the scope box is quite seldom preserved. Any scope instructions inside it?
September 21, 2023
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Unfortunately I haven’t found any instructions or other paperwork, but a Milwaukee address for (I presume) a former owner is written inside the top.
July 3, 2020
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That type of Unertl (8X, 3/4″ tube w/ black mounts) is sought by those trying to re-create U.S.M.C. Sniper rifles but don’t want to drop $5-6000. for a legitimate U.S.M.C. Sniper marked Unertl. I’ve seen that exact type bring over $1,600. You did very well….
September 21, 2023
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Thanks!
Realized something interesting about one of the mags. It came with 3 – two had the 1919 date, one did not; and one of the dated mags appears to be a single shot only.
November 1, 2013
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Lead Snowstorm said
Thanks!Realized something interesting about one of the mags. It came with 3 – two had the 1919 date, one did not; and one of the dated mags appears to be a single shot only.
The 1919s sell on ebay for around $75, but not aware that SS mags were available during the same period; could it be a .22 Short mag?
Best mags to shoot with are the repros made by Wisner’s, about $25; forget those made by all others.
March 12, 2008
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clarence said
Lead Snowstorm said
Thanks!
Realized something interesting about one of the mags. It came with 3 – two had the 1919 date, one did not; and one of the dated mags appears to be a single shot only.
The 1919s sell on ebay for around $75, but not aware that SS mags were available during the same period; could it be a .22 Short mag?
Best mags to shoot with are the repros made by Wisner’s, about $25; forget those made by all others.
Winchester did indeed manufacture 2 rib, 1919 dated single shot adapters for the 52. They were quite popular.
Steve
November 1, 2013
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seewin said Winchester did indeed manufacture 2 rib, 1919 dated single shot adapters for the 52. They were quite popular.
Steve
Thanks for correcting my error; looked through a couple of catalogs but found the only other mag listed was the 10-shot. Was the use of SS mags required in some matches?
