CZ 452 vs. Ruger 77/22R vs. Sako Finnfire-.22 shootout!

B

Blinkme7182

New member
I've been having trouble finding info on the Sako Finnfire--how much does it retail for? What about the Ruger? Anyway, which do you think is a better rifle, the ruger,t he sako, or the CZ? Most importantly, which is the most accurate rifle capable of the smallest groups at 50/100 yards, and what type of groups are these? Which has better finish, which is more durable, and which gives you the most bang for the buck? thanks!
 
The Finnfire sells for around $500 locally, if you can find one. They have been kind of scarce here. The Sako is the darling of the rimfire benchrest crowd and, with the exception of some very expensive custom rifles, have dominated. I would rank the CZ next, the examples I've seen were very well made and everyone I've talked with says they can be very accurate. The Ruger comes in last, IMO. Some examples are very good, but it is basically a rank and file hunting rifle, but very durable. I think the CZ is the best buy of the three, but if serious accuracy is your goal, buy the Finnfire.
 
I've owned a BRNO 2E which is the exact same rifle as the CZ. A Finnfire was about to be mine until a Cooper Arms came my way via a good price at an auction. I've fired both the Sako and Ruger a fair bit and support the previous listing of Sako, CZ and Ruger. The Finnfire is a tack driver although a tad heavy and the magazines seemed flimsy and expensive. The CZ would outshoot any Ruger that came along but the trigger was a little creepy and the safety worked in reverse (ie. forward on, backward off). The Rugers I've tried weren't as accurate and the triggers were pretty heavy.

If you want accuracy buy the Sako and get some Federal Match ammo and enjoy the dime sized groups at 50 yards.
 
Guys,

I'm very curious.....

When discussion of accurate .22 bolt rifles comes up, nobody ever mentions or asks about the Winchester Model 52-B ???

I bought one a few years ago, like new in a pawnshop, and it is really a little beauty. Satin finish walnut stock. Light weight. Nice lines. Adjustable trigger. Accurate. For looking, I put a Tasco 6x24 AO scope on it.

With Eley Brown Box or T22 it'll shoot 1/2 inch 5 shot groups at 50 yds. all day long.

Just been curious why nobody ever mentions this fine little shooter when they talk about accurate .22 sporters......

Swampy
 
Swampy,

Regarding the 52 Browning/Winchester. When they (with the Browning logo) were introduced (1991), they created quite a stir. They weren't really collectable, not being a "true" Winchester, and were in the same price range as a 1416 series Anschutz. I don't think a lot of shooters bought them for what they really were: a nice light .22 rimfire sporter, with classic looks. Being a lefty, they don't appeal to me, but I do think they're underrated .

Regards,
JB
 
JB,

My rifle says "Winchester Model 52" on the barrel, along with "made in Japan". The buttplate is all metal (steel I think, possibly Alum??) and has the traditional Winchester "pony express" logo embossed into the center of it.

I have no idea when this rifle was made, but was unaware of any link with Browning.

Any idea when this beauty was made?? My "2000 GUNS ANNUAL Shoppers Guide" shows this one under the Win. section as Model 52-B priced at $654 suggested retail. Photo and description are identical to mine.

Best regards,
Swampy
 
Swampy,

The Winchester version was "re-introduced" in 1997. As FN owned both Browning and USRAC at that time they put the Winchester logo on it. Browning introduced reproductions of a number of original Winchester models, under the Browning logo. Several have been "re-introduced" with the Winchester logo, since the aquisition by FN. All are very nice reproductions. Hope this helps.

Regards,
JB
 
JB,

Yes, if these were first re-introduced in '97, this tells me that mine must have been almost new when I bought it in the Spring of '98.

Too bad more people don't know about the little Model 52. It's sweet.

Thanks,
Swampy
 
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