RWS 48/52 What kit? Vortex or ZRT ? Looking for more power

[George]

 I have recently acquired a older 48/52 RWS. Don't know the year it was made. Probably will need a tune job . What kit should be installed to give me the most power{fps}. The gun is not here yet. What should I be looking out for in checking this gun out. I bought it online at Auction Arms. I have a three day inspection period . Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[Bullit]

I'd shoot it first George.  The 48/52 is a very hard shooting rifle as is. As a magnum class already, the gains won't be high, unless the seal or spring is worn.  Some have actually tamed them down.  If you can't hit consistently with it, then a heavier spring isn't gonna help.  They are nice rifles, but do take getting used to.
There are threads here on GTA comparing the 2 kits.  Do a search and you'll be able to read/compare for yourself.  Good Luck with your new shooter!

[Mark 611]

If it were me I'd change out the breech seal and piston seal polish up the spring ends and lube it and shoot it awhile before I'd invest a bunch of money it that way you'll know if the gun is good and your good with the rifle JMO

[barcabarca]

my zrt kit installed in my refurb 48 .22 gives a bit under 23 fpe with jsb 18.13 gr pellets.   
before it got to a just a bit under 20 fpe with 14.5gr pellets.  Now it has about 10% more energy and can carry that energy via the heavier pellet over longer range.

The shot cycle is stronger than when it's at 20 fpe, but it is still very accurate.  yesterday I shot 4 targets from a field target position, no straps, at 12x on my scope at 20 yards and got biggest group 3/4" and smallest 3/8" for five shots for four different 5 shot groups...

The ZRT kit is a very good balance of power and accuracy...makes the cocking more heavy though...

[George]

Thanks guys I'll shoot it  first and see what It does. Is a press required to take this gun apart? I have never taken an air gun apart. I have experience in taking apart all kinds of fire arms except air guns.

[Mark 611]

yes you should use a compressor JMO

[Onebaddj]

Id use one. I use one on every springer i take apart. Better to be safe than sorry.

[barcabarca]

+1 for the spring compressor.  The d48 is a powerful air rifle and needs to have the safety of the spring compressor for any parts installation.  there are many plans on the web you just have to google "homemade spring compressor" for air rifles.