Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.

Final Auction Price: $1,775.00

01 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

02 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

03 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

04 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

05 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

06 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

07 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

08 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

09 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

10 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

11 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

12 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

13 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

14 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

15 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

16 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

17 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

18 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

19 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

20 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

21 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

22 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

23 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

24 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

25 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

26 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

27 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

28 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

29 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

30 Winchester Model 52B 52-B .22 LR 28%22 Bolt Action Rifle Unertl Scope C&R.JPG

The Winchester Model 52 has long been regarded as one of the finest rimfire target rifles ever produced, earning the nickname “King of the .22’s” among shooters and collectors alike. This Model 52B, manufactured in 1948, represents a highly refined iteration of the design and is paired with a period correct J. Unertl 10x scope, making it a classic example of mid century American target rifle performance. With its heavy 28 inch barrel and competition oriented features, this rifle reflects an era when precision rimfire shooting was dominated by finely tuned bolt action platforms.

Identification

MMA#: 260204AL006

Make: Winchester

Model: 52B

Serial Number: 72146B

Year of Manufacture: 1948

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Bolt action rifle fed by detachable magazine

Barrel Length: 28 inches, heavy barrel

Sights / Optics

The original iron sights have been removed, though three sight blocks remain installed on the barrel. A mount for an aperture sight is installed on the left rear of the receiver.

The rifle is equipped with a J. Unertl fixed 10 power scope mounted to the barrel blocks using Unertl mounts. The scope features a crosshair reticle with clear glass. The focus and parallax adjustments function correctly. The scope includes a sunshade, metal lens covers, and a rubber eyepiece, and shows operational wear with minor scrapes and light oxidation.

Also included are a Redfield Olympic front globe sight with interchangeable inserts and a fully adjustable Redfield Olympic rear aperture sight with additional peep apertures and mounting hardware.

Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition

The hardwood stock features a pistol grip, beavertail forend with accessory rail, scallop for the magazine release, dual sling loops, a fluted straight comb, and a checkered metal buttplate.

There are two drilled and tapped holes behind the accessory rail with some surface loss in that area. The wood shows scattered light scrapes and compression marks. Length of pull measures approximately 13 1/2 inches. The buttplate shows moderate wear. Overall stock condition: Very Good Plus.

Finish & Overall Condition

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Refinished

The rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its metal finish as refinished. The receiver shows a few small scrapes and light thinning on leading edges. The remaining metal surfaces show light handling and storage marks. Screw heads show use and markings remain clear. The bottom of the bolt is serial matched to the rifle. Overall condition: Very Good Plus to Fine.

Bore & Mechanics

Bore Condition: Bright overall and semi bright at the muzzle with sharp rifling. There is light fouling and minor pinprick erosion at the muzzle. Rated 8.5 out of 10.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This rifle has not been test fired. As with all used firearms, cleaning and inspection are recommended prior to use.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories

Includes a 5 round Winchester magazine.

Also included are Redfield Olympic front and rear sights, an extra quick detach sling loop, and an extra trigger guard.

Our Assessment

The Winchester Model 52 series set the standard for American rimfire target rifles throughout much of the 20th century. Introduced in 1920, it quickly became the dominant platform in competitive small bore shooting, prized for its precision, durability, and refined design. The 52B variant, introduced in the late 1930s, incorporated improvements that further solidified its reputation among serious marksmen.

This 1948 example combines that legacy with a classic J. Unertl scope, a pairing commonly seen on match rifles of the period. The heavy barrel, quality optics, and included Redfield Olympic sights make it a versatile package that appeals both to collectors and to shooters interested in vintage target equipment. With strong overall condition and a solid bore, this Model 52B stands as a fine representation of one of the most respected rimfire rifles ever produced.

The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference

At Mt. McCoy Auctions, every firearm is carefully documented and professionally photographed to create a detailed archival record. Our descriptions are written to provide collectors and shooters with a clear understanding of condition, features, and historical context.