Remington 552 Speedmaster Manual⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Remington 552 Speedmaster, a popular semi-automatic .22 caliber rifle. From its rich history to its technical specifications, we delve into the intricacies of this iconic firearm.
Introduction
The Remington 552 Speedmaster is a semi-automatic rifle chambered for .22 Long Rifle cartridges. Introduced in 1957, it has remained a popular choice among recreational shooters, target enthusiasts, and small game hunters for its reliable performance and sleek design. The 552 Speedmaster is known for its smooth, reliable operation, accurate shooting, and ease of use. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it an ideal firearm for various applications, including plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting.
This manual serves as a comprehensive guide to the Remington 552 Speedmaster, covering its history, disassembly and assembly, troubleshooting, maintenance, parts, accessories, and variations. It aims to provide owners and enthusiasts with the knowledge and resources necessary to understand, maintain, and operate their 552 Speedmaster effectively. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearms, this manual will guide you through the intricacies of this classic rifle.
From its origins as a sleek and stylish firearm to its enduring popularity among shooters, the Remington 552 Speedmaster has left an undeniable mark on the world of firearms. This manual will explore the features, history, and legacy of this remarkable rifle, offering insights into its design, operation, and enduring appeal.
Historical Context
The Remington 552 Speedmaster, a .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle, emerged from the prolific legacy of Remington Arms Company, a name synonymous with firearms innovation. Introduced in 1957, the 552 Speedmaster arrived at a time when the demand for reliable and affordable .22 caliber rifles was burgeoning. The post-World War II era saw a surge in interest in recreational shooting and plinking, and the 552 Speedmaster quickly became a popular choice for these activities.
The 552 Speedmaster’s design drew inspiration from previous Remington models, notably the Remington Model 512, which itself was a refinement of the earlier Model 510. The 552 Speedmaster, however, incorporated several key improvements, including a redesigned bolt and magazine, a smoother action, and a more durable construction. This combination of features made the 552 Speedmaster a highly reliable and accurate firearm.
The 552 Speedmaster’s sleek and stylish design, along with its reputation for accuracy and reliability, helped solidify its place as a popular choice among shooters. Its production continued for decades, and the 552 Speedmaster remains a sought-after firearm among collectors and shooters today.
Disassembly and Assembly
Disassembling and reassembling the Remington 552 Speedmaster requires a methodical approach and careful attention to detail. While the process is generally straightforward, it’s crucial to consult a reputable manual or video tutorial to ensure proper execution.
The disassembly process typically begins with removing the magazine and ensuring the firearm is unloaded. Next, the bolt can be extracted by depressing the bolt release lever. The barrel can be removed after loosening the barrel nut. The action can then be disassembled further, allowing access to the internal components.
Assembly follows a reverse order, with each component being carefully re-installed. Proper alignment of parts is essential for ensuring smooth operation and preventing damage to the firearm. It’s recommended to utilize specialized tools, such as pin punches and a torque wrench, to ensure proper installation and alignment of components.
Regular disassembly and cleaning are essential for maintaining the 552 Speedmaster’s performance. It allows for thorough cleaning of the internal components, ensuring proper lubrication and extending the firearm’s lifespan.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
The Remington 552 Speedmaster, like any mechanical device, can experience occasional malfunctions. Common issues include feeding problems, misfires, and extraction failures. Understanding the root cause of these issues is crucial for resolving them effectively.
Feeding problems often stem from a dirty or damaged magazine, a faulty feeding ramp, or improper ammunition. Misfires can occur due to a faulty firing pin, a dirty firing pin channel, or defective ammunition. Extraction failures can be attributed to a worn extractor, a dirty extractor groove, or a weak recoil spring.
Regular maintenance is essential for preventing these issues. Cleaning the firearm after each use removes accumulated debris and ensures smooth operation. Lubricating moving parts, such as the bolt and trigger mechanism, reduces friction and wear. Inspecting components for wear or damage allows for timely replacement of worn parts.
If you encounter persistent malfunctions despite proper maintenance, consulting a qualified gunsmith is recommended. They possess the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose and repair complex issues, ensuring the firearm remains safe and reliable.
Parts and Accessories
The Remington 552 Speedmaster, being a popular and enduring rifle, has a wide range of parts and accessories available to enhance its functionality and personalize its appearance. From essential replacement parts to specialized upgrades, there’s something for every shooter.
Essential replacement parts include magazines, bolts, firing pins, extractors, and recoil springs. These components wear down over time, and replacing them ensures the rifle’s continued reliability.
Accessories offer a multitude of options. Sights, such as scopes, red dots, and iron sights, enhance accuracy. Stocks, in various materials and configurations, improve ergonomics and comfort. Muzzle devices, like suppressors and flash hiders, reduce noise and muzzle flash.
Other accessories include slings, carrying cases, cleaning kits, and ammunition storage. These items enhance the rifle’s practicality, ensuring it is well-maintained, transported safely, and ready for use.
Choosing the right parts and accessories depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider your shooting style, intended purpose, and budget when making selections.
Where to Find a Manual
Securing a Remington 552 Speedmaster manual can be achieved through various avenues, both online and offline. For those seeking a physical copy, several options exist.
Firstly, Remington’s website offers downloadable manuals for current models. While the 552 is no longer in production, checking for any available resources is worthwhile. Additionally, contacting Remington directly may yield results, as they occasionally offer manuals for older models.
Secondly, online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon often have listings for vintage Remington manuals. These may be original copies or reprints, offering a range of conditions and prices.
Thirdly, gun shops and specialty stores may have manuals in stock or be able to order them. Local gunsmiths can also be a valuable resource, as they often have access to manuals and repair guides.
Finally, online archives, such as the Internet Archive, offer a wealth of digitized manuals, including those for firearms. Searching for “Remington 552 manual” or similar terms may lead to downloadable or viewable versions.
Remember to verify the authenticity and accuracy of any manual obtained, ensuring it matches the specific model and version of your Remington 552 Speedmaster.
Remington 552 Speedmaster Variations
The Remington 552 Speedmaster, while known for its classic design, has seen several variations over its production lifespan. These variations primarily focused on barrel length and chambering, catering to different shooting preferences and applications.
The standard Remington 552, commonly referred to as the “Speedmaster,” featured a 22-inch barrel and was chambered in .22 Long Rifle. This configuration made it a versatile rifle, suitable for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting;
A shorter version, known as the Remington 552C or “Carbine,” emerged with a 21-inch barrel. This compact size offered greater maneuverability and ease of handling, making it popular for close-range shooting and small-game hunting.
Another variation, the Remington 552 Gallery Special, was designed specifically for indoor target shooting. Chambered in .22 Short, this model featured a shorter barrel and a lighter weight, making it ideal for shooting in confined spaces.
While these variations were primarily focused on barrel length and chambering, minor differences in stock design and other features may also be encountered depending on the year of production and specific model.
Understanding these variations is essential for accurately identifying and acquiring the appropriate parts and accessories for your particular Remington 552 Speedmaster.
Legacy and Popularity
The Remington 552 Speedmaster holds a significant place in the history of .22 caliber rifles, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with shooters today. Introduced in 1957, the 552 quickly gained popularity for its sleek design, reliable performance, and affordable price point.
Its popularity was fueled by a number of factors. First, the 552’s semi-automatic action offered a fast and efficient shooting experience, making it ideal for target practice, plinking, and small-game hunting. Second, its robust construction and simple design ensured reliability and durability, making it a trustworthy companion for generations of shooters.
The 552’s popularity was further enhanced by its affordability. Compared to other semi-automatic .22 rifles available at the time, the 552 offered a compelling value proposition, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
While Remington discontinued production of the 552 in 2020, its legacy continues to live on. The 552 remains a highly sought-after rifle among collectors and shooters, with many individuals still enjoying its smooth action and reliable performance.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its well-designed engineering, its reputation for reliability, and its lasting appeal to a diverse range of shooters.
The Remington 552 Speedmaster stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of well-designed firearms. Despite its discontinuation in 2020, the 552 continues to captivate shooters and collectors alike, a testament to its reliable performance, sleek design, and historical significance.
Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a novice shooter, the 552 Speedmaster offers a compelling blend of accuracy, durability, and affordability. For those seeking a reliable companion for plinking, target practice, or small-game hunting, the 552 remains a compelling choice.
While finding a brand-new 552 may be challenging, the vast availability of used models ensures that this iconic rifle will continue to find its way into the hands of enthusiasts for years to come.
The Remington 552 Speedmaster is more than just a firearm; it’s a symbol of enduring craftsmanship, a testament to the ingenuity of its designers, and a reminder that some things are simply timeless.