The Remington 552 Speedmaster is a classic .22-caliber bolt-action rifle renowned for its smooth operation and accuracy. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a new owner just unboxing your Speedmaster, a comprehensive understanding of its operation and maintenance is crucial for safe and enjoyable shooting. While finding an original Remington 552 Speedmaster manual can be challenging, this guide provides detailed information to help you effectively use and care for your rifle.
Understanding Your Remington 552 Speedmaster
Before diving into the specifics of operation, let's familiarize ourselves with the key features of this iconic firearm. The Remington 552 Speedmaster is a lightweight, relatively compact rifle ideally suited for various applications, including plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. Its design emphasizes simplicity and reliability, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Key Features:
- Bolt-Action Mechanism: The heart of the Speedmaster is its smooth, reliable bolt-action system, ensuring consistent feeding and ejection of cartridges.
- .22 Caliber: This versatile caliber is inexpensive to shoot, making the Speedmaster ideal for practice and plinking. Numerous ammunition types are readily available.
- Tubular Magazine: The rifle uses a tubular magazine located beneath the barrel, providing ample capacity for extended shooting sessions.
- Open Sights: Many models feature adjustable open sights, perfect for quick target acquisition. Scope mounting is also typically possible.
Safe Handling and Operation
Safety should always be your paramount concern. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot, and always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Here's a step-by-step guide to safe and proper operation:
Loading the Remington 552 Speedmaster:
- Ensure the rifle is unloaded: Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm no cartridges are present.
- Open the bolt: Pull the bolt handle rearward to open the action.
- Load the magazine: Carefully insert cartridges into the magazine tube, ensuring they are aligned correctly (round nose first). Avoid overfilling the magazine.
- Close the bolt: Gently push the bolt forward until it locks into place.
- Check again: Double-check that the rifle is loaded correctly and safely.
Firing the Remington 552 Speedmaster:
- Assume a stable shooting position: Maintain proper stance and grip for accuracy and control.
- Aim carefully: Focus on your target and use the sights or scope to align the rifle.
- Squeeze the trigger: Gently squeeze the trigger without jerking. Avoid anticipating the shot.
- Follow-through: Keep the rifle steady throughout the shot to maintain accuracy.
Unloading the Remington 552 Speedmaster:
- Point the rifle in a safe direction: Ensure the muzzle is pointed towards a safe backstop.
- Open the bolt: Pull the bolt handle rearward.
- Eject any remaining cartridge: If a cartridge remains in the chamber, it will be ejected.
- Unload the magazine: Carefully remove cartridges from the magazine tube.
- Visually inspect again: Double-check that the rifle is completely unloaded.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital for the longevity and reliability of your Remington 552 Speedmaster. Here's a simple cleaning routine:
- Disassemble: Carefully disassemble the rifle following safety precautions.
- Clean the barrel: Use a bore brush and appropriate cleaning solvent to remove fouling from the barrel.
- Clean the action: Wipe down the bolt and receiver with a clean cloth.
- Lubricate: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts.
- Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the rifle.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the Remington 552 Speedmaster is known for its reliability, occasional issues can arise. If you encounter problems, consult a qualified gunsmith. Common issues include:
- Failure to feed: This can be caused by dirty ammunition or a problem with the magazine.
- Failure to eject: This might indicate a problem with the extractor or ejector.
- Misfires: This can be caused by faulty ammunition, a dirty firing pin, or other mechanical issues.
This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for Remington 552 Speedmaster owners. Always prioritize safety, and consult a qualified gunsmith for any complex repairs or modifications. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes thorough knowledge of your firearm and adherence to all safety guidelines.
