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Remington Speedmaster Model 552: The Definitive Guide for Enthusiasts

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 is more than just a .22 rifle; it’s a piece of American firearms history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a new shooter, or simply curious about this iconic firearm, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know. We’ll delve into the history, features, performance, and overall value of the Remington Speedmaster Model 552, offering an expert perspective to help you understand why this rifle has remained a favorite for generations.

Understanding the Remington Speedmaster Model 552

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 is a semi-automatic, .22 caliber rifle known for its reliability and versatility. Unlike many .22 rifles that are limited to one type of ammunition, the Speedmaster 552 can reliably cycle .22 short, .22 long, and .22 long rifle cartridges. This adaptability made it a popular choice for everything from casual plinking to small game hunting. Introduced in 1957, the Speedmaster 552 built upon the success of earlier Remington .22 rifles, incorporating new features and improvements that solidified its place in firearms history. Its tubular magazine, located under the barrel, allows for a generous ammunition capacity, further enhancing its appeal.

The Speedmaster 552 operates on a blowback action, where the energy from the fired cartridge cycles the bolt and loads the next round. This semi-automatic action allows for rapid follow-up shots, making it a fun and effective rifle for various shooting activities. Over the years, the Model 552 has seen several variations and minor design changes, but the core functionality and overall design have remained remarkably consistent, a testament to its original engineering.

A Look at the Core Components

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 consists of several key components that contribute to its overall performance and reliability. Understanding these components is essential for proper maintenance and troubleshooting.

Receiver: The heart of the rifle, housing the bolt, trigger mechanism, and other critical parts. It’s typically made of steel or aluminum alloy.
Barrel: The barrel is rifled to impart spin on the bullet, increasing accuracy. The Speedmaster 552 typically features a 21-inch barrel.
Bolt: The bolt cycles back and forth to load and extract cartridges. Its reliable operation is crucial for the rifle’s semi-automatic function.
Trigger Mechanism: The trigger mechanism controls the firing of the rifle. A smooth and consistent trigger pull is essential for accurate shooting.
Tubular Magazine: Located under the barrel, the tubular magazine holds the ammunition. Its capacity varies depending on the cartridge type (e.g., more .22 short cartridges can be loaded than .22 long rifle).
Stock and Forearm: Typically made of wood or synthetic materials, the stock and forearm provide a comfortable and stable platform for shooting.

Key Features and Benefits

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 boasts several features that contribute to its popularity and effectiveness.

Versatile Ammunition Compatibility: One of the Speedmaster’s defining features is its ability to reliably cycle .22 short, .22 long, and .22 long rifle cartridges. This versatility makes it a great choice for various shooting activities, from target practice to small game hunting.
Semi-Automatic Action: The semi-automatic action allows for rapid follow-up shots, increasing the shooter’s effectiveness and enjoyment. The blowback operation is simple and reliable, contributing to the rifle’s overall durability.
Tubular Magazine: The tubular magazine provides a generous ammunition capacity, reducing the need for frequent reloading. This is particularly useful for extended shooting sessions or hunting trips.
Durable Construction: The Speedmaster 552 is built to last, with a robust receiver, barrel, and other components. Its durable construction ensures reliable performance for years to come.
Accurate Performance: The rifled barrel and consistent trigger mechanism contribute to the rifle’s accuracy. With proper technique and ammunition, the Speedmaster 552 is capable of producing tight groups at reasonable distances.
Classic Design: The Speedmaster 552 features a classic design that appeals to many shooters. Its timeless aesthetics and comfortable ergonomics make it a pleasure to handle and shoot.

Advantages of Choosing the Speedmaster 552

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 offers several significant advantages to shooters:

Flexibility: The ability to use different types of .22 ammunition provides flexibility in terms of cost and availability. Shooters can choose the ammunition that best suits their needs and budget.
Ease of Use: The Speedmaster 552 is relatively easy to operate and maintain, making it a good choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike. Its simple design and reliable action contribute to its user-friendliness.
Reliability: The rifle’s robust construction and simple design contribute to its overall reliability. It’s known for its ability to function consistently even under demanding conditions.
Accuracy: The Speedmaster 552 is capable of delivering accurate performance, making it suitable for target practice, plinking, and small game hunting.
Legacy: Owning a Speedmaster 552 means owning a piece of American firearms history. Its iconic status and enduring popularity make it a valuable addition to any collection.

A Detailed Review of the Remington Speedmaster Model 552

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 has earned its reputation as a reliable and versatile .22 rifle. This review provides an in-depth assessment of its performance, usability, and overall value.

User Experience and Usability

The Speedmaster 552 is generally considered easy to use, even for novice shooters. The loading process is straightforward: simply insert cartridges into the tubular magazine and rotate the inner magazine tube. The semi-automatic action cycles smoothly, providing rapid follow-up shots. The rifle’s weight and balance make it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.

Performance and Effectiveness

In terms of performance, the Speedmaster 552 delivers consistent accuracy at typical .22 ranges (25-50 yards). The rifled barrel imparts sufficient spin on the bullet to ensure stable flight and tight groupings. The trigger pull is generally smooth and consistent, although some users may prefer to upgrade the trigger for even greater precision. The rifle’s ability to cycle different types of .22 ammunition reliably is a major advantage, allowing shooters to adapt to various shooting scenarios.

Pros

Ammunition Versatility: The ability to shoot .22 short, .22 long, and .22 long rifle cartridges is a major selling point.
Reliable Semi-Automatic Action: The blowback action is simple, robust, and generally reliable.
Good Accuracy: The rifle is capable of delivering accurate performance at typical .22 ranges.
Durable Construction: The Speedmaster 552 is built to last, with a robust receiver and barrel.
Classic Design: The rifle’s timeless aesthetics and comfortable ergonomics make it a pleasure to handle and shoot.

Cons and Limitations

Trigger Pull: The factory trigger pull can be somewhat heavy or inconsistent, potentially affecting accuracy for some shooters.
Cleaning: Cleaning the tubular magazine can be slightly more cumbersome compared to rifles with detachable magazines.
Availability: Discontinued models may be harder to find and can command a premium price on the used market.
Iron Sights: The factory iron sights are adequate, but some shooters may prefer to upgrade to aftermarket sights or optics for improved visibility and accuracy.

Ideal User Profile

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 is an excellent choice for:

Beginner Shooters: Its ease of use and manageable recoil make it a good starting point for learning firearms safety and marksmanship.
Small Game Hunters: Its accuracy and semi-automatic action make it effective for hunting small game such as squirrels and rabbits.
Plinkers and Target Shooters: Its versatility and reliability make it a fun and affordable option for casual shooting activities.
Collectors: Its iconic status and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any firearms collection.

Key Alternatives

While the Speedmaster 552 is a great rifle, some alternatives to consider include the Ruger 10/22, known for its customization options, and the Marlin Model 60, another popular .22 rifle with a tubular magazine.

Expert Overall Verdict and Recommendation

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 remains a highly regarded .22 rifle, offering a blend of versatility, reliability, and accuracy. Despite some minor limitations, its overall performance and value make it a worthwhile investment for shooters of all skill levels. We highly recommend the Speedmaster 552 to anyone looking for a classic and dependable .22 rifle.

Maintaining Peak Performance

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your Remington Speedmaster Model 552. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent malfunctions and maintain accuracy. It’s important to clean the barrel, receiver, and bolt after each shooting session. Use a quality gun cleaning solvent and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Lubricate the moving parts with a light gun oil to ensure smooth operation. Periodically inspect the rifle for any signs of wear or damage, and replace any worn parts as needed. Proper storage is also important. Store the rifle in a clean, dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

The Enduring Appeal of the Speedmaster 552

The Remington Speedmaster Model 552 is more than just a rifle; it’s a testament to American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its versatility, reliability, and classic design have made it a favorite among shooters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new shooter, the Speedmaster 552 offers a unique and rewarding shooting experience. Share your experiences with the Remington Speedmaster Model 552 in the comments below.