Smith & Wesson Model 52-2 .38 Special Mid-Range ".38 Master" Target Pistol, 5-Inch, Blued, 1979, Adjustable Sights, Walnut Grips, With Box and 2x 10-Round Mags
Purpose-built for precision bullseye shooting, this Smith & Wesson Model 52-2 from 1979 is a .38 Master series pistol chambered for .38 Special Mid-Range wadcutter ammunition. It features the standard 5-inch slide, single-action-only operation, and factory adjustable target sights. Notable details include the 52-2 coil-spring extractor update, a matte anti-glare slide top with polished sides, and factory checkered walnut target grips. It comes with the original box, original manual, and two 10-round magazines.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape. It shows minor, superficial scratches and blemishes.
What’s Included
- Original box
- Original manual
- Two 10-round magazines
The Model 52-2 is the refined evolution of Smith & Wesson’s dedicated .38 Master target pistol, designed to feed flush-seated .38 Special Mid-Range wadcutters. This example dates to 1979 and reflects the -2 engineering change, which incorporates the coil-spring extractor for enhanced serviceability.
The slide shows target-focused features: a matte anti-glare top with polished sides, and a bushinged nose with a distinctive knurled, spring-detent rotating barrel bushing used for disassembly. Sighting equipment consists of a plain black Patridge-style front sight and a fully adjustable square-notch rear target sight.
Factory literature for the Model 52 series set an accuracy acceptance standard of 2-inch, 5-shot groups at 50 yards. The single-action-only trigger system supports precise shot control, while the standard 5-inch slide and all-steel, blued construction provide a stable sight picture and consistent recoil behavior.
Ergonomics are anchored by factory checkered walnut target grips with S&W medallions. Rollmarks include "MADE IN U.S.A., MARCAS REGISTRADAS, PAT'S PENDING," and the chamber is marked "38 SPECIAL MID-RANGE." Production of the 52-2 ran from 1971 to 1993, and this United States–made, 1970s-era example aligns with the model’s reputation among dedicated target shooters.
This pistol includes two 10-round, single-column steel magazines compatible with the S&W Model 52 platform, along with the original box and manual.