Smith Model 52 .38 special defense loads?

[SauerGrapes]

I knew where this discussion was going before I even clicked on it.....{big grin}
Model 52, one of the nicest pistols I've ever shot.

 

[1911_Hardball]

Addressing the the ammunition question only:
A 148grn hollow base wadcutter seated backwards (hollow base forward) is both expanding and partially frangible.

 

[Reloadron]

During the early 90s when my wife and I owned a small brick and mortar gun shop I took in and sold a few S&W Model 52 guns. I did enjoy shooting them very much and to this day have regrets about selling them. However, as my wife pointed out many times you can't keep every gun you take in. I really hated that part.

I would not use a S&W Model 52 for personal or home defense and the only reason why is because I have plenty of other guns for that purpose. The gun itself and cartridge, in my humble opinion are more than adequate for either roll however.

I also have never hunted deer or any other game using an AR 15 simply because I have other guns which I feel are better suited for where I hunted and the game I hunted. That is not to say the AR 15 is not adequate for hunting.

Currently I would like to find a nice Colt Series 70 gun in 9mm but if a sweet Model 52 came along at a decent price I would be all over it. The Colt Series 70 9mm can wait. The S&W Model 52 is just one of those guns I would like to shoot again and add to my collection. Personally all I would run through the gun is what it is designed for and if it was all I had for home or personal defense, then so be it, no reservation using it in that roll.

Ron

 

[muzzleblast...]

Thanks guys.
My trusty Smith 52 was my centerfire gun for my bullseye competitive years, but since having mostly retired from that era, it's just been sitting in the safe. ...
Just trying to think outside the box a little so I can continue to enjoy it.
I have plenty of other guns for SD.
It's just that it feels so good in the hands!
...

I have a Model 52, but it only sees the safe and the shooting range. My Model 39-2, however, sees a lot of belt time...Even if it is just an antiquated, full size single stack 9mm.

39-2s can be found in good condition. Get one. Your M-52 will enjoy the company. Heck, might as well track down a 539 while you're at it.

 

[RickB]

I bought a 539, about a year ago.
Absolutely beautiful, but I cannot abide the DA/SA trigger; Long, with too long of a reach, crunchy and heavy in DA; short, too short of a reach, and crunchy in SA.
Still, it's a beauty.