Note the Model 52 does NOT shoot "38 specials" as most seem to write. The magazine only holds a flush-mounted 38 special mid-range wadcutter. Even a 38 special regular target load won't fit in the magazine.

However, it's an easy (and relatively inexpensive ) reload. Buy DEWC ( double-ended wad cutters ), use 2.5 grains of Bullseye, and flush mount the bullet with just the tiniest crimp to give a smoother edge for feeding.

This pistol was designed expressly for the centerfire pistol in the 3-gun national match course. ( I took 9th centerfire/slow fire Expert at Camp Perry with mine back in the late 60's.

With such a small powder charge, there's little recoil and brass lasts forever. In my opinion, this is the finest centerfire target pistol ever made... and absolutely useless for much of anything else past shooting rats at the dump.

Until the 52 came along, you either had to shoot your .45 or a wheelgun for your centirefire pistol in the NMC.