Smith & Wesson S&W Model 52-1 .38 Master Single Action 5″ Pistol MFD C&R
SOLD FOR: $1378.09
LSB#: 210421JB05
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-1, The .38 Master Single Action
Serial Number: 103661
Year of Manufacture: 1963-1970
Caliber: .38 Special Mid Range Wadcutter
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic with Magazine Disconnect Safety and Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “SMITH & WESSON” and with the four line Marcas Registradas address. The left side of the frame is marked “103661 / Model 52-1”. The upper left side of the trigger guard is marked with a “P”. The top of the exposed portion of the barrel is marked “38 SPECIAL / MID-RANGE”. The right side of the frame is marked with a an S&W monogram logo. The right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING” under the ejection port.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight has a Patridge-type top rear face with a serrated ramp leading up to it. The rear sight is angled target-style sight with a square notch, adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut, each with S&W medallion at the top. There are a couple little compressions, most noticeable on the left panel at the top screw. There is some light handling wear. The checkering is sharp. The grips are free of chips and cracks. The grips rate in about Fine-Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The bottom of the dust cover has a single dimple for a counterweight. The grip frame and the trigger guard have a few little marks. There are is a bit of thinning on the edges of the backstrap and checkering. There is some light wear on the safety. There is light operational wear. There are light handling marks. The screw heads show light use. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is short and crisp with a short reset. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a pair of 5-round magazines marked “S&W” on their baseplates. The magazines have some operational thinning. The mags rate in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 52-1 (the .38 Master Single Action) is a serious target pistol designed to fire only .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition with the bullet seated flush with the case mouth. It was created in 1961 for the sport of NRA Bullseye shooting and was produced by S&W until the machinery used to manufacture it wore out and was considered to be too costly to replace. Fortunately, this Model 52-1 is far from being worn out, it has a few light marks, functions great and is in about Fine-Excellent condition. This is a great handgun, no longer produced by Smith & Wesson. Please see our photos and good luck!