The Remington Model 552 Speedmaster, introduced in 1957, is a versatile .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle known for its reliability and popularity among shooters. This guide explores its history, design, operation, and maintenance, offering insights for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
History of the Remington Speedmaster 552
The Remington Speedmaster 552, introduced in 1957, is a semi-automatic .22 rifle designed for reliability and affordability. It evolved from earlier models, becoming a popular choice for target shooting and small game hunting due to its durability and accuracy.
The Remington Model 552 Speedmaster was introduced in 1957 as a semi-automatic .22 caliber rifle, designed for reliability and affordability. It quickly gained popularity among casual shooters, target practitioners, and small game hunters. The 552 was part of Remington’s evolution in rimfire rifles, building on earlier models like the 241. Its introduction marked a significant step in offering a versatile firearm for various shooting applications. The rifle featured a blow-back action and a tubular magazine, holding up to 15 rounds of .22 Long Rifle ammunition. The “Speedmaster” name, previously used for the Model 241, was revived for the 552, which soon became the definitive version. Its combination of simplicity, durability, and accuracy made it an instant favorite, appealing to both beginners and experienced shooters. The 552’s debut in 1957 set the stage for its enduring legacy as a staple in American shooting sports.
Design Evolution
The Remington Model 552 Speedmaster underwent notable design evolution during its production, reflecting advancements in materials and shooter preferences. Initially introduced in 1957, the rifle featured a robust steel receiver and a 22-inch barrel, ensuring durability and accuracy. Its tubular magazine, holding up to 15 rounds of .22 Long Rifle ammunition, became a defining feature. Over time, Remington introduced variations, such as the carbine version with a shorter barrel and the Gallery Special, chambered exclusively for .22 Short cartridges. A lightweight model was also developed for enhanced portability. The stock design remained largely consistent, with a classic wood finish providing a comfortable grip and cheek weld. The rifle’s open sights and scope mount groove added versatility, catering to both traditional and modern shooting styles. These design refinements solidified the 552’s reputation as a versatile and practical firearm, appealing to a broad range of shooters.
Production Timeline
The Remington Model 552 Speedmaster was first introduced in 1957 and remained in production until 1988, marking a significant era in rimfire rifle manufacturing. During its production run, the 552 gained a reputation for reliability and affordability, making it a favorite among shooters. Remington produced various configurations, including the standard model, a carbine version with a shorter barrel, and the Gallery Special, designed for .22 Short cartridges. A lightweight model was also introduced, catering to shooters seeking enhanced portability. Despite its popularity, the 552 was eventually discontinued in 1988. The exact production numbers are not publicly disclosed by Remington, but the rifle’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless design and performance. Its production timeline reflects a commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of shooters, ensuring the 552’s place in firearms history.
Design Features
The Remington 552 Speedmaster features a blowback action, tubular magazine, and steel barrel, with a wooden stock for classic comfort. It includes a manual safety and accepts scopes for enhanced accuracy.
Action Type
The Remington 552 Speedmaster operates on a blowback action system, which relies on the pressure generated by the fired cartridge to cycle the bolt and eject the spent casing. This mechanism is simple, efficient, and contributes to the rifle’s reliability and durability. The blowback design eliminates the need for a gas system, making the rifle lightweight and easy to maintain. When a round is fired, the expanding gases push the bolt rearward, extracting the spent casing and cocking the hammer. As the bolt returns forward, it strips a new round from the magazine and chambers it, readying the rifle for the next shot. This smooth, recoil-operated system ensures consistent and accurate performance, making the 552 a favorite among shooters for plinking, target practice, and small-game hunting.
Magazine Capacity
The Remington 552 Speedmaster features a tubular magazine located under the barrel, designed to hold up to 15 rounds of .22 Long Rifle (LR) ammunition. This generous capacity makes it ideal for extended shooting sessions, whether for target practice, plinking, or small-game hunting. The magazine’s tubular design ensures smooth feeding of cartridges, contributing to the rifle’s reliability and consistent performance. The ability to carry multiple rounds without frequent reloading enhances the shooting experience, making the 552 a popular choice for casual and recreational shooters. Additionally, the Gallery Special version of the 552, chambered for .22 Short cartridges, further highlights the rifle’s versatility in accommodating different ammunition types. The magazine’s simplicity and durability align with the rifle’s overall design philosophy, emphasizing practicality and ease of use. This feature has been a key factor in the 552’s enduring popularity among shooters of all skill levels.
Barrel Specifications
The Remington 552 Speedmaster features a 22-inch barrel crafted from durable steel, ensuring consistent performance and longevity. The barrel is chambered for .22 Long Rifle (LR) cartridges, offering excellent accuracy and versatility for target shooting, plinking, and small-game hunting. Its robust design contributes to the rifle’s reliability and overall appeal. The barrel’s rifling, with a 1:16 twist rate, enhances bullet stability and precision, making it ideal for a wide range of shooting applications. The Speedmaster’s barrel is also free-floating, which reduces vibration and improves accuracy. This feature, combined with its durable construction, makes the 552 a reliable choice for shooters seeking a dependable firearm. The barrel’s specifications have remained consistent over the years, further solidifying the rifle’s reputation for quality and performance. Whether for casual shooting or more demanding tasks, the 552’s barrel delivers consistent results, making it a favorite among shooters of all skill levels.
Stock Design
The Remington 552 Speedmaster features a classic wooden stock designed for comfort and durability. Crafted from high-quality wood, the stock provides a traditional feel and aesthetic appeal. Its ergonomic design ensures a firm grip and a smooth cheek weld, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The stock’s length and contour are optimized for proper shooting posture, enhancing accuracy and control. The wood finish is durable and resistant to wear, maintaining its appearance even with frequent use. The stock’s design also accommodates a variety of shooting styles, making it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters. Additionally, the stock’s weight distribution contributes to the rifle’s overall balance, allowing for smooth handling and precise aiming. The combination of classic styling and functional design makes the 552’s stock a key factor in its enduring popularity among shooters. This timeless design has remained largely unchanged, reflecting its proven effectiveness and shooter satisfaction.
Safety Features
The Remington 552 Speedmaster incorporates essential safety features to ensure safe handling and operation. A manual safety lever is conveniently located on the right side of the receiver, allowing shooters to engage or disengage it with ease. This feature prevents accidental discharge, providing an additional layer of security when the rifle is not in use or during transportation. The safety mechanism is designed to be intuitive, enabling quick access without compromising the rifle’s functionality. Additionally, the 552’s design includes a secure locking mechanism that prevents the action from cycling when the safety is engaged, further enhancing safety. These features, combined with proper handling practices, make the Speedmaster a reliable and secure choice for shooters of all experience levels. The emphasis on safety underscores Remington’s commitment to producing firearms that are both functional and user-friendly, ensuring a safe shooting experience for generations of enthusiasts.
Material and Construction
The Remington 552 Speedmaster is crafted with durable materials to ensure longevity and reliability. Its receiver is made from high-quality steel, providing a robust foundation for the rifle’s action and ensuring consistent accuracy. The barrel, also constructed from steel, is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining precise performance. The stock is typically made from wood, offering a classic aesthetic and a comfortable feel for shooters. The rifle’s construction emphasizes simplicity and strength, with a focus on reliability and ease of maintenance; The use of steel for critical components ensures durability, while the wooden stock provides a traditional and ergonomic design. The overall build quality reflects Remington’s commitment to producing firearms that are both functional and enduring. The materials and construction of the 552 Speedmaster contribute to its reputation as a reliable and long-lasting firearm, capable of withstanding years of use in various shooting environments.
Operation
The Remington 552 Speedmaster operates via a reliable blowback mechanism, cycling smoothly with each shot. The bolt moves rearward, ejecting the spent casing, and chambers a fresh round effortlessly, ensuring consistent performance.
Blowback Mechanism
The Remington 552 Speedmaster employs a blowback operating system, which relies on the inertia of the bolt and the pressure of the fired cartridge to cycle the action. This mechanism is simple yet effective, contributing to the rifle’s reliability and durability. When a round is fired, the pressure generated by the explosion pushes the bolt rearward, ejecting the spent casing. As the bolt travels back, it cocks the hammer and compresses the recoil spring. The spring then drives the bolt forward, stripping a new round from the magazine and chambering it. This seamless process ensures smooth and consistent operation, making the 552 a pleasure to shoot. The blowback design eliminates the need for a gas system, simplifying maintenance and reducing the risk of malfunctions. Its efficiency and reliability have made the Speedmaster a favorite among shooters for decades.
Loading and Chambering
Loading the Remington 552 Speedmaster is a straightforward process that ensures reliable operation. The rifle features a tubular magazine located under the barrel, capable of holding up to 15 rounds of .22 Long Rifle ammunition. To load, insert the cartridges into the magazine tube, ensuring they are properly oriented and seated. Once loaded, the magazine spring will hold the rounds in place. After loading, the bolt must be manually cycled to chamber the first round. This is done by pulling the bolt handle rearward and releasing it, allowing the spring to drive the bolt forward and chamber a round from the magazine. The rifle is now ready to fire, with the hammer cocked and the safety engaged. Always ensure the rifle is pointed in a safe direction during this process. The Speedmaster’s intuitive loading and chambering system makes it easy to prepare for shooting, whether for target practice or hunting small game.
Unloading and Safety
The Remington 552 Speedmaster is designed with safety in mind, featuring a manual safety located on the right side of the receiver. To unload the rifle, ensure the safety is engaged and remove the magazine from the tube under the barrel. Open the action by pulling the bolt handle rearward, allowing the chambered round to eject. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty. Always handle the rifle with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, even when unloading. The safety should remain engaged until you are ready to fire. Proper unloading and safety practices are essential to prevent accidents and ensure responsible firearm handling. By following these steps, shooters can maintain a safe environment while operating the 552 Speedmaster. Always refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions on unloading and safety procedures.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the Remington 552 Speedmaster’s longevity and reliability. Clean the barrel, lubricate moving parts, and store the rifle properly. Follow the manual for detailed care instructions to maintain optimal performance.
Cleaning the Rifle
Cleaning the Remington 552 Speedmaster is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Start by disassembling the rifle according to the manual, removing the magazine, bolt, and barrel. Use a bore brush and cleaning solvent to thoroughly clean the barrel, paying special attention to the chamber and bore. Remove any lead, carbon buildup, or residue that may interfere with accuracy or reliability. Inspect and clean the feeding ramp to ensure smooth cartridge feeding. After cleaning, apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, such as the bolt, firing pin, and recoil spring, to reduce friction and wear. Reassemble the rifle carefully, following the manual’s instructions. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions and ensures the rifle functions smoothly. Proper maintenance is key to preserving the 552’s reliability and accuracy for years of enjoyable shooting.
Lubrication
Lubrication is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation and longevity of the Remington 552 Speedmaster. Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, including the bolt, firing pin, and recoil spring, to reduce friction and wear. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil can attract dust and debris, potentially causing malfunctions. Focus on areas where metal components interact, such as the bolt rails and hammer. Regular lubrication ensures the rifle cycles smoothly and reliably, even after extended use. For optimal performance, use a high-quality gun oil suitable for firearms. Reapply lubrication after cleaning or every 500 rounds, depending on usage. Proper lubrication not only extends the life of the rifle but also enhances its accuracy and reliability, making it a key part of routine maintenance for the Remington 552 Speedmaster.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the condition and functionality of your Remington 552 Speedmaster. Always store the rifle unloaded, with the magazine removed, to ensure safety and prevent accidental discharge. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. A gun safe or lockable cabinet is ideal for secure storage, preventing unauthorized access. Use a soft cloth or silicone-based gun sleeve to protect the finish from dust and scratches. Avoid storing the rifle in leather cases, as they can trap moisture and promote rust. For added protection, apply a light coat of rust-inhibiting oil to metal surfaces before storage. Store ammunition separately in a dry, cool environment. Regularly inspect the rifle and its storage area to ensure no damage or corrosion has occurred. By following these storage tips, you can preserve the longevity and reliability of your Remington 552 Speedmaster.
Maintenance Schedule
A regular maintenance schedule is crucial to ensure the Remington 552 Speedmaster remains in optimal condition. After each use, inspect the rifle for dirt, debris, or wear. Clean the barrel, action, and bolt assembly every 500 rounds to prevent residue buildup. Lubricate moving parts, such as the bolt and recoil spring, with a light gun oil to reduce friction and wear. Every 1,000 rounds, disassemble the rifle (following the manual) and thoroughly clean the chamber and magazine tube. Inspect the firing pin and extractor for damage or wear, replacing them if necessary. Annually, check the stock for cracks or damage and ensure the barrel is free from obstructions. Apply a rust-inhibiting oil to metal surfaces during long-term storage. By adhering to this maintenance schedule, you can ensure the Remington 552 Speedmaster continues to perform reliably for years to come.
Troubleshooting
The Remington 552 Speedmaster is reliable, but issues like failure to feed, fire, or misfires can occur. These are often due to dirty chambers, faulty ammo, or worn parts. Regular maintenance resolves most problems.
Failure to Feed
Failure to feed in the Remington 552 Speedmaster can occur due to issues with the magazine or feeding mechanism. Ensure the magazine is properly loaded and seated, as a misaligned or damaged magazine can disrupt the feeding process. Check the magazine spring for wear or damage, as a weak spring may fail to push rounds into the chamber. Additionally, inspect the feeding ramp for debris or corrosion, as obstructions can prevent cartridges from chambering smoothly. Clean the feeding ramp and chamber area thoroughly with a bore brush and solvent to remove any residue. If the issue persists, examine the bolt and extractor for wear or damage, as these components play a critical role in the feeding cycle. Addressing these potential causes can restore reliable feeding functionality to your rifle.
Failure to Fire
Failure to fire in the Remington 552 Speedmaster can be caused by issues with the firing mechanism or ammunition. Inspect the firing pin for damage, wear, or obstructions, as a faulty firing pin can prevent ignition. Ensure the firing pin is properly seated and aligned. Check the hammer to confirm it strikes the firing pin with sufficient force. A weak or broken hammer spring may also cause this issue. Additionally, examine the ammunition for dents, corrosion, or improper seating in the chamber. Using high-quality, consistent ammunition can help prevent misfires. If the problem persists, clean the chamber and firing pin area thoroughly with a solvent and lubricate moving parts. Addressing these potential causes can restore reliable ignition and firing functionality to your rifle.
Misfires
Misfires in the Remington 552 Speedmaster can occur due to several factors, including faulty ammunition, a dirty chamber, or issues with the firing mechanism. Always use high-quality, consistent .22 caliber cartridges, as poor-quality or damaged ammunition is a common cause of misfires. Inspect the chamber for residue or debris, as a dirty chamber can prevent proper ignition. Clean the chamber thoroughly with a solvent and brush to ensure it is free of obstructions. Additionally, check the firing pin and spring for wear or damage, as a weak or corroded firing pin can fail to ignite the cartridge. Lubricate the firing pin and surrounding areas to ensure smooth operation. If misfires persist, try using a different brand or type of ammunition to rule out issues with the cartridges themselves. Regular maintenance and inspection can help minimize misfires and ensure reliable performance.
Legacy and Popularity
The Remington 552 Speedmaster has left an enduring mark on shooting sports, cherished for its reliability and versatility. Its popularity endures among shooters, making it a timeless favorite for plinking, hunting, and target shooting.
Impact on Shooting Sports
The Remington 552 Speedmaster has significantly influenced shooting sports, becoming a staple for target shooting, plinking, and small-game hunting. Its reliability and accuracy made it a favorite among competitors and recreational shooters alike. The rifle’s versatility in chambering .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cartridges allowed it to adapt to various shooting disciplines, from casual range sessions to competitive events. Its affordable price and durable design made it accessible to a wide audience, fostering participation in shooting sports. The Speedmaster’s popularity also contributed to the growth of rimfire competitions, as its consistent performance and ease of use made it a reliable choice for shooters of all skill levels. Over the years, the 552 has become synonymous with the enjoyment of shooting sports, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of firearms.
Why It Remains Popular
The Remington 552 Speedmaster remains popular due to its timeless design, reliability, and versatility; Its semi-automatic blowback mechanism offers smooth operation, while its ability to chamber .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cartridges makes it adaptable for various shooting applications. The rifle’s durable construction, with a robust steel receiver and high-quality barrel, ensures longevity and consistent performance. Its wooden stock provides a classic feel, and its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for shooters of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, the 552’s affordability and ease of maintenance have cemented its place as a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and casual plinkers. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness, making it a trusted choice for generations of shooters. These qualities ensure the Remington 552 Speedmaster continues to be a beloved firearm in the world of shooting sports.
The Remington Model 552 Speedmaster stands as a testament to timeless firearm design, offering reliability, versatility, and enduring appeal. Introduced in 1957, this .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle has become a staple in shooting sports, cherished by both seasoned shooters and newcomers. Its blowback mechanism, tubular magazine, and ability to chamber multiple .22 cartridges ensure smooth operation and adaptability. The 552’s robust construction, lightweight design, and classic aesthetics have made it a favorite for plinking, target shooting, and small-game hunting. Its affordability and ease of maintenance further solidify its place in the hearts of enthusiasts. As a reliable and iconic firearm, the Remington 552 Speedmaster continues to inspire shooters, embodying a legacy of quality and performance that transcends generations. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview, ensuring that the Speedmaster remains a cherished and functional piece in any collection.