Win 52c Receiver Color?

[gunprofit]

Just bought a Winchester 52C on Gunbroker. It was made in 1956. I have owned and still do own a 52, 52A, and a 52B. This is my first 52C. My question is, the receiver is a very dark dark blue. I didn't see it on the gunbroker pictures, but in person it is prevalent. I know that the 52C receivers are hardened unlike the previous models. I would expect some color difference in a receiver that has been hardened, but this amount of darkness stumps me. At first glance I think it has been reblued. However, the barrel and other furniture look like the correct Winchester blue color. Anyone out there a Winchester aficionado? Are these hardened receivers supposed to be this dark? Oh yeah, the wood finish is correct and compared to my other rifles are the same. So my conclusion is the rifle is correct and original, but perhaps the receiver only was refinished. Which kinda doesn't make a lot of sense. When I get home, I will take some close up pics and post them so you can see what I am talking about.

I definitely love the trigger! Just finished adjusting it to my liking. Since it will be a bench gun for me, I set it rather light at 1 1/4 lb. I think I read somewhere that they are adjustable down to 1 1/2 lb, but my went a little bit more. The barrel is the "Heavy Target" barrel, measuring 1" at the receiver and .875" at the muzzle. Until I buy another Unertl scope for it, I will rob the 20x Unertl off of my 52A and take it to the range. Would like to find a higher power such as 24 or more. But, when you find them, they are pricey. Will also need to find some sights for it. Naturally everyone keeps them when they sell their rifles.

Thanks for any help that's offered.

[TRAP55]

I've seen some that were LNIB that had a real dark blue. Get some close ups of the receiver markings out in the sunlight, I can usually tell if it's a re-blue. BTW....it's common on a lot of the pre 64 Winchesters to have the blue not match between barrel and receiver.
If you want an accurate DOM on your 52's:

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=410211

[gunprofit]

Just posted a couple of pics. Didn't turn out like I hoped. I would have to say the receiver is perhaps 2 to 3 times as dark as the barrel blue when you are holding it in your hands.

Everyone likes to have their collectibles original. But, in the long run, having a great shooter is the most important thing. And, I have a good selection of target grade Lapua and Eley ammo on hand to find out. Would be nice to have a wind free day at the range. My club, Modesto Rifle Club on occasion has rimfire matches at 200 yards. I will be ready for the next one. The last time I shot 200 yards I had to shim my bases to get enough elevation at that distance. Unertl scopes just don't have enough elevation when using target ammo. Well, I suppose most scopes don't have enough built in elevation for that distance. Like shooting the 1,000 yard matches with your centerfire rifles, you need those 20 MOA bases to make it all work.

Being a guy that loves the vintage guns, I get lots of enjoyment beating the fellows who turn up their noses at vintage guns. I get tired of hearing them say, "you can't compete with that!". LOL

[TRAP55]

I can't see anything in the pics that looks like a re-blue.
That one was made in early 1957, highest production year for the 52 with 15,038 made that year.
Try Garry Fellers for the sights. I know of another guy that has the sights, if I can find his card, I'll post the info for you.

http://www.garyfellers.com/