S&W Model 52

Saw my first one today at, of all places, a flea market.  Looked to be in excellent shape but did not handle it so not sure what dash it was.  asking price was $1200 but after a bit of discussion seller said he would take $1000.  Didn't bite as I haven't shot competitively in over 40 years.  Shocked me to find a top end gun like this at a flea market.

Wow, I would be very tempted at that price.

I bought a minty one in the box this summer for $1000.   Love it.

Don

Have you ever handled a S&W Model 52 before?

I think anyone who loves a quality handgun owes it to themself to handle one if the opportunity presents. I can't sit here and tell you that it's what you want to compete or maybe it is what you want for any reason. Owning, shooting and loving a 52 means you have to accept some things that go along with it, and these aren't for everyone.

However, you should feel one, feel the slide glide on the frame, feel the trigger. There's a reason that these are special.

Sevens makes a good point. The 52 has a slower cycle or something… like no other pistol, I can feel it go back into battery before the next shot. I get this to a lesser degree in my 952 but the feeling is a joy to experience on the line. A great familiar feeling that few other pistols can match

It’s about the same feeling (feeling the slide go into battery) as you get with a slide mounted dot or a ribbed slide 45 shooting wadcutter ammo. I like my 52 as it doesn’t tolerate poor technique.  Great for training.  It isn’t as accurate as my 45, but it’s good enough and excellent for training.