Smith & Wesson S&W Model 52-2 .38 Spl 5″ Semi-Automatic Pistol 1977-1978
SOLD FOR: $1225
LSB#: 210903SG03
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-2, The .38 Master Single Action
Serial Number: A429238
Year of Manufacture: 1977-1978
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 Marcas Registradas address. The left side of the frame is marked “A429238 / 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 right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING”. 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 a couple of tiny light handling marks. 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 but the backstrap insert is not original to the gun.
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 backstrap insert is a replacement. There are a few little spots of thinning and frost on the back of the frame. There is some faint thinning on the edges. There are a few little nicks and light hairline scratches on the dust cover. There are some spots of faint mottled discoloration on the backstrap insert. There is some faint mottled discoloration on the top of the slide behind the rear sight. There are a few small spots of surface oxidation on the safety. There are a few tiny light marks through the finish. There is light operational wear. The screw heads are lightly worn with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is crisp. 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 single 5-round magazine.
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 52-2 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!