Well, time to take back all of the bad things I said about the 52 wanting to malfunction. Since I'm too stubborn to reload, a couple of you recommended Federal Gold Medal wadcutter. I finally got around to shooting some Gold Medal today (at 67¢/round, counting shipping from Able Ammo). It completely transformed the gun! Since I've owned the gun, I've only used the cheap Fiocchi or S&B wadcutters. With the Gold Medal, the gun felt completely different (still using the 7# Wolff spring). Even though there is (I think) only about 20 fps difference in the muzzle velocity of the ammo (approximately 690 fps vs. 710 fps for the Federal), the pistol has a noticeable increase in "snap," and it functions absolutely perfectly, at least for the first 50 rounds. (My pocketbook couldn't stand any more .38 caliber fun for one day.) Thanks to the the forum members for your input. I'm a happy guy--it's like getting a new pistol. Happy holidays to all.
Steve
Steve