Smith and Wesson Model 52-1 Semi-Automatic Pistol With Box 1963-1970 C&R
SOLD FOR: $993
WOA#: WY240315EV006
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-1, The .38 Master Single Action
Serial Number:103625
Year of Manufacture: 1963-1970
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” and with the four line Marcas Registradas. The left side of the frame is marked “103625 / MODEL 52-1 ”. 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 right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “P”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight has a Partridge-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 an S&W medallion at the top. There are a few light handling marks and some heavy scratches. The checkering is sharp. The grips are free of chips and cracks. The grips rate in about very good to fine overall condition for its age.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp.There is some fouling near the chamber There is no erosion in the bore. Bore rating at 9 /10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The slide has some thinning on the hard edges from operation over the years. There is a small area of scarring on one of the magazine’s baseplates. Both magazines show some operational wear. The defects are hardly noticeable. There are handling marks and light operational wear throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about fine condition. Most of the issues I have with this pistol are in the condition of the grips.The box and paperwork is a great bonus. The blue bradcornered box is in 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 are two 5-round magazines, a serial matching box, original blue cardboard insert, the manual, and cleaning brush.
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 or repair the machine. Fortunately, this Model 52 “38 Master” is far from being worn out, in fact it looks like it saw very light work. This is a great handgun, no longer produced by Smith & Wesson and is a perfect addition to any collection, especially one that comes in the original box. Please see our photos and enjoy the auction!-K.F.
