Model 39 & Model 52 the same?

[mtmbrab]

Is the model 52 (no dash) the same frame as the model 39-2. I hate the feel of the aluminum alloy 39-2 and wondered if I could swap the model 52 and remove screw to make it Double/single and have the heavier fell I am looking for.

 

[squidsix]

Look for a model 539. Those are steel framed and it can easily be made to work with a model 39 or 39-2 slide. (Or a 539 slide if you buy the whole gun)

 

[BAM-BAM]

Model39 is a single stack 8+1 9mm
The Model 52 is a "target gun" that is chambered for .38 wadcutters.

 

[67tempest]

If you ever come across a 39 or 539 frame out there in the wild for sale let me know, I've been looking for one for years.

 

[gmborkovic]

I presently do not have a 52 that I can try the switch. The 539 is a good choice or buy a steel frame mod-39 from the 60s era.
You have both guns, give it a try and post results. Im not saying it will work or shoot it.

 

[Engine49guy]

Either look for a Model 539 or the SS version the 639.
The steel frame 39 no dash is rare and expensive.

 

[gmborkovic]

OH!, they aint that rare or pricey. Brad, you got a doz. of them.

 

[153]

Back in the 70's a customer came into the Shop where I worked with a model 52 that he converted into a 39. Like the OP he disliked the aluminum frame and wanted an all steel pistol. So it could be done.

That was a long time ago and the pistols were still available new … it would be a very expensive project today, a 539 would be a better solution.

 

[mtmbrab]

thanks I will let you know if I find one

 

[Greyman50]

How much are 52's going for now? Gave my 39 to son when he flew down and drove back home. Needed room in safe anyway…

 

[gmborkovic]

Hello Grey, lots of variables on 52s. Have seen $800 to $2400.
Modle, condition and goodies.

 

[donk52]

Not worth the trouble. The 9mm magazine will not fit properly in the 52 frame.too loose.

 

[gmborkovic]

Hey donk, where you been? Dont stay away so long. best, Mike

 

[Green Frog]

I faced the "need" for a steel frame 39, and my solution was to purchase a Model 639 and some extra slides (blued steel) and I'm living happily ever after. Do the math, starting with a Model 52 that will cost at least $1000-1200 if you get lucky, or starting with a Model 539 or 639 for a maximum of about $750 if you don't want to shop around. Then when you add the cost of making a 9mm out of it, several hundred for the Model 52 vs $0 for the X39 and the decision becomes a no-brainer.

Everything for the Model 639 FrankenSmith project including the initial gun purchase, two blued slides, a set of Millet adjustable sights for one and a cheap reflex red dot for the other, along with 3 extra magazines, and I'm still under $1000. You couldn't do that starting with a Model 52!

Froggie

 

[gmborkovic]

"several hundred for the Model 53 vs $0 for the X39 and the decision becomes a no-brainer."
Hello Frog, trying to follow your post. Your statement above is hard to follow. best, Mike

 

[Arm]

To save all that bother to build a franken pistol, well there is a cheap alternative...model 559

 

[Green Frog]

"several hundred for the Model 53 vs $0 for the X39 and the decision becomes a no-brainer."
Hello Frog, trying to follow your post. Your statement above is hard to follow. best, Mike

*@#% fat fingers! I fixed it! If you read the whole, admittedly tortured sentence, I tried to express that the idea of converting an expensive Model 52 in 38 Spl to a less valuable 9mm does strike me as a no brainer... would you see it differently?
Froggie

 

[donk52]

Hey donk, where you been? Dont stay away so long. best, Mike

I've recently moved to New Hampshire, been busy,haven't been on the computer much lately.

 

[gmborkovic]

Hope the move went hassle free and you are now settled in. Are you out in the country where you can shoot. best, Mike