Discussion Section
In general, these are found in the U.S. without import marks, and can range from heavily used/pitted/damaged condition to pristine, and seemingly NIB. Reference searches will reveal an approximate one to three split among SE Asian bringbacks and likely 'border jumpers' from Canada around the 1980's - the latter being usually in splendid condition.
All Hungarian M52's will exhibit a serial number with the prefix, BC. Hungarian arsenal marks are circle-B, circle-8, and 02. Most are found in beech stocks, though I have seen pictures of what I believe to be elm. Some will be equipped with optics and mounts from the Hungarian #41 manufacturing facility, and others are found with Soviet optics and mounts. It is unclear whether all M52's were originally fitted with Hungarian optics. But to add, a #41 scoped specimen is big bonus.
A good link: Rifles Of The Red Star
Below are the rest of the pictures of what I believe to be a bringback sniper, though there are no documents to support. It could be a non-import marked gun from Canada. I don't know for sure. But it does exhibit some evidence of use and handling wear at some point in its existence, though the previous owner of 23 years had not fired it, and says that it was bought directly from the Veteran. The oil finished stock has a few dings and hand soiling. Mild patina is developed on the muzzle end, cleaning rod and buttplate. The Hungarian sling dog collars show stretching wear. And just to add, the gun was bought at the right price for the model, and not for any war story.
But overall, it is one purdy and cleanly styled gun. Original matching serial numbers, non-refurbished, and entirely 02 stamped parts. My optics are from the Soviet Progress facility with the /25\ refurbishment stamp, and the post-war Soviet mount is not marked at all. Sadly, a patch of pitting was tackled with sand paper on the scope housing at some point in time - but I won't throw it out for that. Stitching on the lens cover strap is different from any of my other covers, though it is Soviet in origin. Hungarian lens covers exhibit untanned leather.
Enjoy the pics, and thanks for looking.
Discussion Section