Is there a serial number date list for the Model 52 like the ones available for other models? If so, would someone post it please? Thanks.

Jim

Hello Vern, the 52 Sns run with the mod-39s Sns.
Your best bet is to ask here on the Forum or request a Letter.
Remember that you will have to settle for a ship date, not a manufacturing date.

__________________
Mike 2796
SoFo Bunch member

Short answer: there is no quick and easy chart.

I’m going from memory so I’ll probably screw this up and I welcome corrections and fact-checks!

The no-dash 52 arrived in… hmmm 1962 or 1963? These started at sn 50000 and the no-dash ran to somewhere near 53500 I think.

Then the 52-1 arrived and that ran from about 53501 to 55999 or somewhere near. I don’t think any 52’s went to 56000. At that point the range jumped directly to 100000.

Here it gets odd because the SCSW 4th says that the A-serial prefix starts at A115001 but we have seen examples of A-prefix between 100000 and 115001. SCSW 4th also suggests that A115001 should be 1970.

The A-prefix and 6 digit number ran all the way to the A700-some range, I think. I don’t believe I have seen any A800xxx Model 52 pistols but the 2nd Gen 9mm guns were definitely using the A800xxx and this would have been around 1983.

Some time in the mid-1980’s, the Model 52 moved to the three alpha prefix system with three letters and four numbers. And unless my memory is failing me, these started with a TAA-alpha prefix. If I’m guessing, I’ll say 1986 or 1987.

The very last 52’s were made in the first half of 1993 and carry a TZx-xxxx serial number. Somewhere in the Txx series, the lettering on the slide changed to match the more modern 3rd Gen style and the classic “four lines” of S&W information disappeared from the left side of the slide.

The later 52’s made in the late 80’s and early 90’s were shipped with a right side stock panel that had the ambi-cut for a decocker that no 52 ever had, this was simply a production streamlining thing as the 2nd Gen 439/539/639 pistols needed the newer stock to make room for the ambidextrous lever on the right side.

Hello 7s, you have a phenomenal memory.

__________________
Mike 2796
SoFo Bunch member

Thanks guys. Serial number 51220?

Jim

No later than 1964 or 1965 would be my guess. But for sure, that’s just a guess.

Thanks again guys.

Jim

I just picked up a 52-1 with SN 58xx4. Sent for a wadcutter mold and hope to start shooting soon. I was on a division level pistol team and shot bullseye matches in the middle 60s. Might try it again if the gun shoots good and they welcome old guys.