Smith & Wesson Model 52-2 .38 Special Midrange Wadcutter Semi-Automatic
SOLDO FOR: $1,390.50
LSB#: LSB250525MC027
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-2
Serial Number: TVA4396
Year of Manufacture: Late 1980s–Early 1990s
Caliber: .38 Special Midrange Wadcutter Only
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol, Magazine Fed
Barrel Length: 5”
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MA U.S.A.” The right side of the frame has the S&W monogram logo. The right side of the frame, above the trigger guard, is marked “TVA4396 / MODEL 52-2.”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated Patridge blade integral to the barrel weight assembly. The rear sight is a square notch in a fully adjustable sight base, which remains present under the optic mount. Currently installed is a frame-mounted Tasco ProPoint red dot sight in good condition with clear glass.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with a set of custom orthopedic-style wooden target grips featuring a deep thumbrest, palm swell, and adjustable palm shelf. These grips provide a secure one-hand hold for bullseye competition. The wood shows some light handling marks but no cracks or major chips. The grips rate in Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its original finish. There is scattered operational wear, light edge thinning, and a few small surface marks from handling and holstering. The barrel weight shows some thinning at the edges. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very Good to Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp, and the slide-to-frame fit is tight. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with its installed barrel weight assembly, custom orthopedic target grip, and a Tasco ProPoint red dot sight mounted on a frame rail. 2 additional magazines (3 Total) are included.
Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Model 52 holds a special place in the pantheon of American target pistols. Developed in the early 1960s and chambered exclusively for the .38 Special midrange wadcutter, it was engineered from the ground up to dominate bullseye competition. The Model 52-2, introduced in the 1970s, eliminated the barrel bushing, resulting in a simpler and more precise lockup that quickly became the preferred version among serious competitors.
This particular example, serial TVA4396, was produced in the late 1980s to early 1990s, just before Smith & Wesson discontinued the Model 52 line in 1993. It has been fully outfitted for competition with a barrel-mounted weight, a Tasco ProPoint red dot sight, and orthopedic-style target grips with a palm shelf. These additions, combined with the pistol’s legendary accuracy and light, crisp single-action trigger, make it a turnkey setup for bullseye or centerfire match shooting.
For collectors, the Model 52 represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson’s semi-automatic target pistol development, while shooters continue to value it as one of the most accurate wadcutter pistols ever built. Whether you’re a bullseye competitor looking for a ready-to-shoot classic, or a collector seeking a late-production example of one of S&W’s most refined designs, this pistol deserves your attention. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
