Model 52 cycling

[jag22]

Not sure where this belongs but I'll start here.
Bought very nice S&W model 52 and loaded up two different loads (2.8 bullseye and 3.5 win231) which were said to be the most common loads for that gun using a 148 grain DEWC. The gun fired, it was extremely accurate but it was not auto loading. I changed my grip so a finger was touching the slide and it did not move but when I rack it by hand it moves very smoothly, in fact it seemed so light I was concerned that might cause a problem. My first thoughts were to load more of the same but put a crimp on them ( I figured since the bullet is inserted to be flush with the shell that all of that metal to metal contact would be enough) or the second choice would be loading some progressively stronger loads.
Am I overlooking something? Anyone have any thoughts?

 

[RGPM1A]

If I understand your post correctly the slide isn't cycling with your loads. 3.5 grains of 231 should be plenty hot enough to cycle the slide with a 148 grain WC.

You do need to put a crimp on the ammo for this gun even though the bullets are flush seated. Your problem might be that the bullet is leaving the case way before the powder is burned. Is there a lot of unburned powder in the barrel?

Some people use a taper crimp while others use a roll crimp. I use a light roll crimp to help feeding reliability. My favorite load is a flush seated 148 grain HBWC over 3.3 to 3.5 grains of 231 which gives me a velocity of 800 to 825 FPS.

 

[jag22]

I agree, I think the problem is that I didn't crimp and the bullet is leaving before the pressure can build sufficiently to actuate the slide. What brand of HBWC are you using? I try to find one with the least amount of lube smoke.

 

[RGPM1A]

I use Hornady Swaged 148 grain HBWCs. They are a bit smoky though with my load because its a little hotter than most use. But I can shoot very nice groups with them. Been using them for about 30 years. If you search the forum others have found 148 grain HBWC from other manufacturers as well.