I recently purchased a used Model 52 barrel at auction. I will not reveal the auction nor the seller at this time, as I am trying to negotiate a refund.
The seller wrote " rare S&W model 52 factory original barrel very hard to find and in excellent condition it is for the 38S&W wadcutter have never seen one this nice." And in an e-mail to me he wrote " was installed in a 52-2". And there was a photo - no ruler along side for scale. Looked OK to me. (Famous last words)
Well, it's no longer factory original. It's an inch too short! And installed in a 52-2? How? The barrel is too short to engage the barrel bushing!
The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson, 4th edition, reports that 1 Model 52 is known to be made with a four inch barrel. So, if you have serial number 51511, I have your barrel!! Or an extra one. I can make you a good deal if I am unable to obtain a refund.
Request advice.
Bob in Phoenix