S&W Model 52
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1961
Also known as: S&W .38 Master, Model 52-1, Model 52-2
Overview
The S&W Model 52 is an American single-action semi-automatic target pistol chambered in .38 Special, firing flush-seated full wadcutter cartridges. Introduced in 1961 and derived from the Model 39 service pistol, it was a dedicated centerfire bullseye match pistol prized for its exceptional accuracy. It used a five-round detachable magazine, a 5-inch match barrel with an adjustable bushing, and a micrometer-adjustable rear sight. Production ended in 1993 when the specialized tooling required to build it wore out.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1134 g (40.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 216 mm (8.50") |
| Barrel Length | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 11 N (2.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .38 Special · primary — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, 9x29mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Slide Mounted Safety, Firing Pin Block, Magazine Disconnect
- Features: Single Action Only, Adjustable Barrel Bushing, Micrometer Adjustable Rear Sight, Match Grade Barrel, Flush Seated Wadcutter
Variants
- S&W Model 52-1 - Single Action Trigger
- S&W Model 52-2 - Improved Extractor
Service history
Operators
- United States competitive shooters
Production
Production years: 1961-1993
Discontinued in 1993 after the manufacturing machinery wore out and was deemed too costly to replace
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Smith & Wesson
Discontinued: 1993
Notes
Often nicknamed the '.38 Master'. Three versions were produced: the original Model 52 (1961), the Model 52-1 with a redesigned single-action trigger (1963), and the Model 52-2 with an improved extractor (1970-1993).
Background
Built specifically for centerfire bullseye competition, the Model 52 fired only flush-seated .38 Special wadcutters and earned a reputation as one of the most accurate production target pistols Smith & Wesson ever made.