Loads for Model 52

[Cushman/52]

FINALLY !!!!
About a month ago I aquired a 52-2 and am now ready to start testing loads . Can I be so forward as to ask for your tried and true favorites ? You are THANKED in advance , and I will do my best to try them all.

 

[Dale53]

I used a home cast bullet (H&G #251 dbl ended wadcutter) ahead of 3.0 grs of Bullseye. It shot extremely well in my 52.

Dale53

 

[forestswin]

I don't know whether you have seen it or not, but handejector has a Noteable thread on the Model 52 at the top of the Reloading section. Alot of good info in there!

 

[H Richard]

2.7 gr Bullseye behind a 148 gr. HBWC is "THE" standard accuracy load in a Mod 52.

 

[boatbum101]

+2 on the Notable Thread on 52 loads . I've also made posts over the years with data , test targets etc if you'd care to review them . Aboard ship now & my notes aren't available . Memory aint what it used to be either so I'm hesistant to run my mouth . For best accuracy stick with swaged ( not cast ) HBWC's . Just about any faster to med fast powder will work , velocity 700 - 750fps . VVN310 to VVN340 speed . Clays is a bit too fast & builds pressure rapidly . My results were eratic at best . I much prefer W231 , WST , BE , VVN320 , AA#2 , VVN340 . I'd also stick with 1 lot of brass trimmed to 1.145" & only shoot it in the 1 gun . I taper crimp , but it's worked for me . Remington & Zero 148 HBWC's are the cat's meow . Forget the rest if serious about 50yd accuracy .

 

[mstuhr]

Good better best

Howdy,
Might just be mine, but it shoots good with most anything and really comes alive at 3.5 gr. 231 and Remington bullet.
Also it is much more reliable with the warmer load.
Good luck
Mike

 

[gregintenn]

2.7 gr Bullseye behind a 148 gr. HBWC is "THE" standard accuracy load in a Mod 52.

I found that a slight crimp really cut down on leading and improved accuracy.

 

[Grayfox]

Boat Bum hit it. Trim your brass and only use that lot in the 52. That's the real trick to good ammo in these guns.

 

[SGTV]

I have shot a 52-1 way back when they first came out. I have a HG mold that makes a perfect bullet, 148gr wade cutter. I shot in NRA 2700. From 1959 until I retired from the USMC in Jan 1972. I received my Master card in 1971. I would have remained a expert if I did not buy this Gun. I am 80 now and shoot in competition 1 to 2 times a week. Just 148gr WC with 2.8 grs of B.E. still the best after all these years. Keep them in the Black!!!

SARGE
USMC
Retired

 

[jag22]

I tried the 148 HBWC (Rem I believe) but hated them because they were such a mess to handle. Finally landed on 148 DEWC from Zero. I also tend to like the warmer load, every time I tried the "standard" load in 231 or Bullseye I frequently had to stop and check the barrel to make the last round wasn't a squib. Bumping it up a little just feels better and accuracy seems a little better.

 

[PattonTime]

Loads for 52

I am also a Heretic and like warmer loads in my 52's.
Anything below 3.0 grains in Bullseye tends to be too fussy for my taste.
I have tried trimming cases perfectly, different amounts of crimp...
I found just a bit more powder was easiest for me.
I am not a particularly good shot anyway.
It is all about fun for me and jams are no fun !
I tend to use Speer or Hornady swaged bullets in my 52's.
I will go to 3.5 grains of Bullseye with a plated HBWC in my revolvers though.
Just about my favorite 38 Special load, I do not shoot that hot a load in my 52 though !