Smith & Wesson S&W Model 52-2 .38 Spl 5″ Semi-Automatic Pistol MFD 1990
SOLD FOR: $1303
LSB#: 210706ML43
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-2, The .38 Master Single Action
Serial Number: TFE9349
Year of Manufacture: 1990
Caliber: .38 Special Mid Range Wadcutter
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic with Magazine Safety Disconnect and Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MA U.S.A”. The left side of the frame is marked “TFE9349 / MODEL 52-2 ”. The top of the exposed portion of the barrel is marked “38 SPECIAL / MID-RANGE”. The right side of the frame is marked with an S&W monogram logo. The butt of the grip frame is marked with inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight has a Patridge-type top rear face with a serrated ramp leading up to it and is fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a target sight with a square notch, adjustable for windage and elevation, and is dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut, each with S&W medallion at the top. There are only a couple tiny compressions and little marks through the finish, most noticeable on the left panel towards the top. The checkering is sharp. The grips are free of chips and cracks. The grips rate in about 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. There are a few little scuffs that have thinned the finish on the trigger guard. There are a few little marks through the finish on the front strap. There is some thinning on the front edges of the slide. There are light handling marks. There is light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine Plus 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 serial matching box, single 5-round magazine, cleaning rod & brush, bushing wrench, and paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 52 (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 retained the basic trigger mechanism of the Model 39, with the Double-Action disconnector removed, allowing the pistol to be fired in Single action only. The model 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 is far from being worn out and looks great. This is a great handgun, no longer produced by Smith & Wesson worthy of a spot in your collection. Please see our photos and good luck!