A spectacular Winchester Model 52C .22 LR full-stock sporter by George Hoenig from the estate of Tom Siatos. Based on action serial 86558C and showcasing Hoenig’s mastery of all things metal, this rifle is fitted with an 18-inch custom light sporter barrel topped by a serrated ramp front sight (with folding hood and removable blade) and an elevation-adjustable rear sight blade with serrated face marked 50/100 (the installed front sight blade is regulated for 50 yards while an additional blade stowed under the trap door in the grip cap is regulated for 100 yards). The action sports a set of Hoenig’s superb “quick detaching” rings (modified Redfields that slide rearward in the dovetail and over the opened bolt when locking screws are loosened, then return to zero when replaced and the screws tightened). The action itself is honed to perfection and the Micro-Motion trigger breaks with but a casual thought. While easily overlooked, the bottom metal has been rounded just so to match the contour of the stock. All metal surfaces wear the only suitable finish, a deep rust blue. STOCK: The full stock has been carefully shaped from what appears to be a blank of AAA-grade Turkish walnut, rich lateral and crossing grains running its full length. Forend checkering takes form as a generous full-wrap point pattern and repeats over the grip with such precision that alignment of the points and tip of the comb suggests divine intervention. The cheek rest is a proper English pancake, its lower edge thoughtfully softened. Meant to be used, the stock is fitted with a front loop (1-inch) and rounded rear swivel stud. It is worth mentioning that inletting is flawless. MARKINGS: “G. HOENIG BOISE, ID.” is centered on the barrel. “GH” appears on the left side of the rear sight base as well as the rear bridge. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with scope) is 7.4 pounds and length-of-pull is 13.6 inches over a Pachmayr Old English pad. OPTIC: Leupold 4x Rimfire Special with Fine Duplex reticle. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Much admired and little used, overall finish is at least 99 percent with minimal indications of handling. Optics are clear. The price is firm and layaway is available. Photo package by request (include direct email address). TOM SIATOS (1923-2008) spent the majority of his life in close association with firearms and hunting. His professional contributions, tremendous category knowledge, bottomless enthusiasm and bold personality influenced the firearms industry and outdoor media to such a degree that it remains a viable force today. Tom was the second editor of Guns & Ammo Magazine. As such, he was responsible for the general tone of the iconic publication. A consummate hunter, spectacular all-around shot and true connoisseur of fine firearms, his interests spanned the full spectrum of the shooting sports. In 1942, Tom enlisted in the Marine Corps. He served in units that scouted and destroyed isolated enemy communication sites on a number of Pacific islands, eventually receiving a battlefield commission. After concluding his service, he attended UCLA and later joined the fledgling Petersen’s Publishing Company in 1958. A series of promotions led to him to become vice president of the Petersen’s Publishing Outdoor Division, which thrived under his leadership. Tom Siatos was a mentor, visionary, leader, father figure and a true original. We will never see his like again.