This is an exceptional all original and unaltered late production Winchester Model 52C Target Rifle with "US" property markings. This rifle is accompanied by a notarized "Certificate For Purchase of Firearms" dated Feb 1975, for an M1 Garand, that lists this rifle by serial number as being previously purchased by the consignor (who was a LTC in the US Army) in June 1967. No other documentation is available from the consignor, however this sale could easily be verified by the CMP. This Model 52 Target Rifle was introduced in the mid/late 1950s and was produced until the mid-1960s when it was superseded by the 52 D and E models. This was probably the best all around small bore target rifle produced by Winchester and was a vast improvement over the earlier 52 rifle in that it had a solid left side receiver wall and it featured the "Micro-Motion" trigger. This trigger assembly was capable of fine adjustments for both trigger pull and backlash from outside the action. This model also has the "US PROPERTY" markings correctly electro-penciled on the left side of the receiver behind the serial number along with a small "DOD" defense acceptance proof on the flat of the pistol grip area. The left rear section of the barrel is marked with the three line Winchester trademark followed by "--MODEL--52--22L. RIFLE--/--WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL--" and the circled "WP" proofmark on the very end of the barrel and the front edge of the receiver. The barrel is correctly drilled and tapped for Unertl type scope blocks with both in place. It has a Redfield Olympic hooded front sight with the rear sight mounting plate attached to the rear end of the receiver, (no target rear sight). It has the all blued metal finish with the polished bolt, detachable single shot magazine and wide serrated target trigger. It is fitted with the original Winchester straight grained, walnut target stock with pistol grip, checkered steel buttplate, military sling swivels, and hand hold mounting plate under the forend.

Excellent, with 99% of the original blue finish overall with just a hint of wear on the muzzle with some small handling on the underside of the barrel. The wood is also in excellent plus condition with a nice even light brown oil finish overall with some minor handling marks on the side of the butt and pistol grip area. The Department of Defense cartouche is clear and distinct. An excellent example of a U.S. Property Marked Winchester Model 52 target rifle.