DAVID JOHNSON
New member
Anyone have have any information regarding the old Smith model 52- good or bad.
Thanks DJ.
Thanks DJ.
Smith 52
- Thread starter DAVID JOHNSON
- Start date
Friend of mine has one that I've shot quite a bit. Super accurate, and a little particular when it comes to reloads. Will only digest 148 grain wadcutters seated almost flush with the case mouth. But, if you get the overall length correct, it is reliable and more accurate than any .38 revolver, including the old target guns from years ago. 
I've owned a couple of 52's. They are accurate, but I found them difficult to shoot well. The frame geometry was just not "right" for me. They fed well with a slight roll crimp over the wadcutter. I did have a .38 Super Colt converted to wadcutters that was a real joy to shoot. The 1911 suited me better.
Walt Sherrill
New member
One of the most accurate handguns made.
Designed originally for the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit.
They are great guns, with unbelievable smooth triggers.
But they've had mixed success in Bullseye shooting. As JB in SC notes, there's something about the frame design that doesn't fit some shooters. (The basic gun is really a tricked-out, hand-made S&W Model 39.)
I have a S&W Model 52 and a SIG P-210-6. It may just be more accurate than the P-210-6. But not by much. They can be found for under $700, if you shop around.
Designed originally for the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit.
They are great guns, with unbelievable smooth triggers.
But they've had mixed success in Bullseye shooting. As JB in SC notes, there's something about the frame design that doesn't fit some shooters. (The basic gun is really a tricked-out, hand-made S&W Model 39.)
I have a S&W Model 52 and a SIG P-210-6. It may just be more accurate than the P-210-6. But not by much. They can be found for under $700, if you shop around.