*SOLD* Smith Wesson 52-2 .38 Spl Blue 5" *SCARCE MID-RANGE WAD CUTTER MODEL*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

In 1961 the Smith & Wesson Model 52, sometimes referred to as the 38 Master, a semi-automatic pistol was developed by Smith & Wesson for Bullseye shooting. It was one of the first semi-automatic pistols chambered in .38 Special with flush-seated, full wadcutter bullets. The shape of the rimmed cartridge limited the magazine capacity to five rounds. In 1963, the Model 52-1 was introduced; it incorporated a steel frame, a new single-action trigger mechanism, and a different hammer. With its innate accuracy, excellent balance, and the ergonomic perfection of its grip frame, the Model 52-1 was an immediate success with competitive handgun shooters. Smith & Wesson labored mightily to meet demand but without sacrificing quality. In 1971, the Model 52-1 design was improved with the addition of a coil-spring extractor. The change resulted in the designation being changed to Model 52-2. Model 52s proved very popular with bullseye shooters and soon became the dominant target pistol in the U.S. Many famous shooters, including Bill Blankenship, used Model 52s to win numerous world championships, and they were instrumental in weaning American target shooters away from .38 Spl. target revolvers. As the manufacture of Model 52s required a great deal of hand fitting, production numbers were never high, but the price was. Combined with the fact that centerfire bullseye shooting was becoming dominated by customized .45-caliber 1911 pistols, this led to the Model 52-2 being dropped from Smith & Wesson's catalog in 1993.

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 52-2
Serial: A632029
Date of Manufacture: 1979-1980
Caliber: .38 Special Mid-Range Wad Cutter
Finish: Blue 
Barrel Length: 5" 
Optics/Sights: 1/8" Patridge Front on Ramp Base and Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Wraparound Packmayr with Inlaid Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard