Mossberg Model 352 .22 LR Semi-Automatic Carbine with Folding Tenite Fore-End & Vintage Sears 3-9x Scope
Mossberg’s Model 352 stands out as the company’s first detachable-magazine autoloading .22, produced only from 1957 to 1959. This lightweight 18.5-inch carbine features a distinctive hinged Tenite fore-end that folds down to form a vertical grip, and it reliably cycles .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle interchangeably. The hardwood stock, slim 3/4-inch tube Sears scope, and classic blued finish give this mid-century plinker real period charm while keeping weight around five pounds.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light handling marks and a few shallow surface scratches are visible on the metal surfaces.
What’s Included
- Sears 3-9x slim-tube riflescope (mounted)
- 1× 6-round factory detachable steel magazine
The Model 352 uses a simple blowback action with a right-side reciprocating charging handle, keeping manual of arms straightforward for training or casual plinking. Its detachable 6-round magazine feeds from below the receiver, a notable advance for Mossberg rimfires of the era.
The Tenite plastic fore-end is hinged; when folded down it acts as a vertical grip, improving control during rapid fire. Folded up, it locks flush under the barrel for a traditional profile.
A walnut-tone hardwood stock keeps the carbine light and well balanced. The 12.75-inch length of pull accommodates a wide range of shooters, while the steel receiver is both grooved and drilled to accept optics—here, a period-correct Sears 3-9x scope is already installed on a 3/4-inch tube.
The carbine’s 18.5-inch barrel wears a drift-in post front sight and a receiver-mounted aperture rear sight, offering a clear iron-sight picture when the scope is removed. Pre-1968 manufacture means no serial number was required at the factory, which adds a touch of historical authenticity for collectors of classic American rimfires.