Model 52 variants-- which to choose?

[mdg137]

I am in the market for a model 52, and just wanted some input--

I understand the differences between the 52, 52-1, and 52-2, but I am not sure if it is worth paying a several hundred dollar premium for the 52-2 over a 52, or 52-1, especially if I will be shooting, not collecting.

For those that have them, how common are actual extractor problems on the 52 and 52-1?

Is there any other reason I should opt for the 52-2 other than optional barrel weights and the extractor improvement?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

 

[jrm53]

52

I would buy the first one I saw that I liked, as for the extractor not being available I think any compentent gunsmith with a Bridgeport could machine one. Aparently they are made of the same material as some of the old BMW bike parts, namely "Unobtainum" Jeff

 

[handgunner356]

If I wanted a shooter then that would be my reason to get the 52-2. I've had several and usually found that they could be had for little more than the earlier models if one shops around.

 

[ycr]

I have seen this question about the 52 extractor many times and I don't remember any real answer. I hear that they can break, but with reasonably loaded ammunition, is it likely to happen? I have a 1st month production 52 And a last year 52-2 and have not shot the beautiful old 52 because of the extractor fear. Have any of you actually had one break?

 

[Herb686]

I've shot many thousands of rounds through my 52-1 without a problem. Perhaps I should note that it was fed 148 HBWC and 2.7 Grains Bullseye.

 

[TSQUARED]

I shot a 52-1 for many years, sold it and finally purchased another one. I managed to purchse an extra extractor from Numrich but never used it. I have heard tales of the 52-1 extractor failures and therefore purchased the extra extractor but personnaly I have never seen an extractor fail.

 

[p0838]

remember,for what it's worth, the 52 no dash has single and double action capabilities

 

[perrazi]

had a 52-1 and did break an extractor. back in the day i sent the gun to smith& wesson who replaced it and did a complete overhaul. shot the gun many thousands after that and sold it when i quit bullseye. way before anyone had any collector interest in them. byw, the gun was pretty well used when i got it so it had many thousands through before the broken extractor too.

 

[Jimmymac46]

If you are looking for a regular shooter, I would get the 52-2. If you are planning to acquire one because they are a work of art, get any model you can, keep it, don't look back, and be happy you have one.

The Model 52 is Smith's finest auto. I have a 41 also that I believe is a fine specimen, but my 52 is a shade better....JMO.

 

[45Wheelgun]

MDG,

First off Welcome!

Second, thanks for the timely thread. I am in the market as well, and had the exact same question.

FYI- I was looking at a mint 52-1 at the last OGCA show, mint with all the goodies, $1150. I didn't have the cash so I didn't attempt to purchase, but I felt it was $100 or so high.

Good luck with the hunt, and be sure to show off pictures when you get it.

Dave

 

[GotLost21]

Turns out Dad's had a 52-2 stashed away in a safe since 1993. Unfired. Any ideas on what it's worth? I've got a single crappy phone picture, more if ya'll want, my cameras are currently not near the gun(~100 miles away).

 

[BADSBSNF811]

1000 + or - depending on condition, box, papers, accessories.

 

[Less]

I didn't relize the huge difference in price but extractor replacement and all M52 spare parts are getting more difficult to find so this must be taken into account. Less