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April 18, 2012
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A few years back I had the great fortune of adding a Winchester Model 52 Sporter to my collection.
I’m told by the serial number it was made in 1954 (Ser # 90818C )
This rifle is in absolute perfect condition. If you look hard, there is a small scuff on the barrel, about 3/4″ long by 1/32″ wide where the rifle was in a verticle stand, resting on this spot. Other than that, amazing condition.
It has a Lyman “running rabbit” receiver sight, swivels,cut checkering, hooded front sight, cheek piece, steel blued butt plate
It is drilled and tapped for scope and if you remove a plug, there is no mark I can see on the barrel shank threads so it appears it was done at the factory before the barrel was installed
It is time to let someone else take care of this fine rifle. I want to sell it but have no idea what it is worth. I’ve been told everywhere from $4500 to $6500
Any advise you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Lots more pictures here:
http://public.fotki.com/Rbertalotto/things-that-go-bang/winchester-model-52/
March 12, 2008
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I have seen that rifle somewhere before. That said, based on pictures, I believe stock has been sanded and possibly checkering touched up. It is hard to determine precisely from pictures, but stock finish is dull compared to the factory sporter finishes. Also, has there been a repair on the toe of stock? It look’s a bit light in the area between swivel base and buttplate. Balance of rifle look’s very good. It has correct rust blued barrel and dulite finished receiver.
Also check length of pull, it should be about 13.5″ or just a touch longer.
If in fact stock has been refinished, I would put value at about $3000-4000. An all original sporter in this condition would be $4500 to possibly $5K at a large auction house.
Steve
April 18, 2012
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I’m no expert on these things…But I’ve had a few folks that have been involved in these old Winchesters look at it and all have suggested it is original and not refinished. The checkering certainly doesn’t look messed with. But then again, it is available for an expert appraisal if so needed before purchase.
March 12, 2008
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It is very tough to evaluate guns with pictures, especially checkering. Those were just my comments based on what I could see. Finish look’s much duller in the pictures than the factory semi gloss finish. Again, it could just be the pictures. I would certainly have an expert look at it in person. I think the sporters have flattened out a bit in value here recently, but I’m sure they will be back. Hope it work’s out to your advantage. You might want to post same question on Rimfire Central’s 52 sub forum. I’m sure you get a bunch of comments.
Steve
