RWS Diana 48/52

[buellm2]

I dropped by my LGS today and was surprised by the number of AGs they had.   One that interested me was a RWS Diana 48/52in .22.   The metal finishes were in fine shape, the stock had a few dings and scuffs but really not too bad.    They were asking $275.   I figure there's a chance it will need seals and new spring but I'm not an expert.   Are these guns reliable shooters good for many thousands of rounds?   I've read some negative comments on RWS customer support.   Will I be able to get parts easily?

[Roadworthy]

Too many questions!  In my humble opinion the Diana side lever rifles are the best fixed barrel rifle they ever produced - I think I have three of them!!  My 48 will shoot right alo.ng with my TX 200 for accuracy and group sizes.  I do have a preference for .177 put that's just me.  I can get genuine Diana parts if necessary but not always in the USA.  The expendables (springs, seals, etc.) are readily available.  I prefer Air Rifle Headquarters for that stuff.  The gun you're looking at has a T01 trigger.  It's a fine trigger but frequently needs some polishing for acceptable target use.  If you absolutely hate it the newer T06 will work as well but the piston must be replaced, too.  Some guys on this site will swap straight across to get the T01 setup.  At the age of that gun a replacement spring as well as piston and breech seals should be high on your priority list.  If you've not done one before get disassembly instructions before attempting the breech seal.  Good luck!!

[Yogi]

I dropped by my LGS today and was surprised by the number of AGs they had.   One that interested me was a RWS Diana 48/52in .22.   The metal finishes were in fine shape, the stock had a few dings and scuffs but really not too bad.    They were asking $275.   I figure there's a chance it will need seals and new spring but I'm not an expert.   Are these guns reliable shooters good for many thousands of rounds?   I've read some negative comments on RWS customer support.   Will I be able to get parts easily?

Yes, to parts.  Yes, to it is a fine airgun.  Yes, to buying it.  I would suggest starting at $200 and go up to 250 if necessary.  Tell them that you might have to invest $ 50-120 to get it right.  Point out all the dings! Most little dings can be steamed out.  Look at plans for a spring compressor, if you do not already have one.

-Y

[Toxylon]

The D48/52's are among the most reliable spring-powered guns out there. It's easy to find testimonies of D48/52's that have been in heavy use since the 1990's etc., and still shoot great (consumable part replacements common to every springer notwithstanding). I personally think the sidelever Diana is a brilliant concept, a true evolutionary step in sportster springers, and by now, thoroughly field-tested.

The 48/52 in the OP hints at the gun being an early one, with a T01 trigger. It's a mighty fine trigger (my favorite), but also out of production. T01 trigger parts are available, but for how long and how widely, is another question. But it is entirely possible and not hideously expensive either, to update the trigger and piston.

I'd buy an early sidelever Diana for 250 bucks any day, provided the gun is sound.

[Kragman1]

I bought one in that condition about a year ago from a LGS for less, but I certainly feel that I got more than I paid for.  Also a T01 in .22, mine has seen plenty of use and seems perfectly ready for lots more.  Haven't spent much time with it between work and other rifles, but it has shown itself to be accurate from just limited use and will likely prove to be more so once I really spend time with it. 
I like it very much.  Though I miss the natural movements of loading and firing a breakbarrel, working the side lever quickly became less awkward as i was shooting it so I don't think that will be an issue for me.

[Sqwirl57]

The 48 is an awesome gun. You really don't need customer support with that gun. They are pretty easy to work on with very basic hand tools and there are plenty of online references for it to guide you through it. Throw a pre-made tune kit and seals in there and you'll be good to go for years

[Madd Hatter]

I've had mine since 92. I bought it used from Beeman but it was made in 87. I didn't replace the spring and seals until about 5 years ago. It will also be the last air rifle I'll sell. If you buy it and want to replace the spring with a tune kit DO NOT but the vortex kit. It doesn't fit.

[buellm2]

Hey guys, thanks for the expert advice.   Diana is the only "higher end" brand of AG that I remember from my youth.   I wanted a Diana but as a young guy I spent my gun money on PBs.  I better get one now before it's too late.  My plan is to wait a few weeks and then check the LGS to see if they still have the 48/52 and if it's still on the shelf I'll make an offer.   I'd prefer it to be in .177 as I have lots of those pellets on hand.   There's a good chance that if I need to respring/reseal it I'd slightly tune it down.   

Oh and this one is the version with the nicely checkered stock so I guess that is the 52.

[Bad News Beeman]

Can't go wrong with a Diana sidelever. As many have already said, they are rock solid tack drivers. I love mine.

$275 for one, especially in .22 is a good deal.

[Yarddog]

What is an "LGS"?

[buellm2]

Local Gun Store

[lillysdad621]

"Latter Guns Saints?" lol

[tripiy]

Midway USA has new for 449$. If u can find some coupon it would be good deal with to6 trigger