New Model 520

[cdknox]

A local GS has a S&W 520 for sale, the newer model that is 7 shots and has the titanium cylinder. Anyone know what the Blue Book is on these? Looks practically unfired. I can't seem to find much info online. Was this model a custom gun?

 

[foxymike]

I can't answer your questions directly.

I bought my 520 Ti new in September 2007 for $635, if my memory serves me correctly.

They show up on Gunbroker occasionally, but I can't remember any recent selling prices.

So far as I know, it isn't a custom gun, but it was one of limited production. Its stainless steel "twin" is the 620.

I like it. It's my bedside and wilderness carry gun.

Because it's my utility gun, I replaced the wooden stocks with Hogue rubber grips.

Mine has a few thousand rounds through it, including some stout .357s that I've manufactured.

It's well balanced, accurate, and is heavy enough to tamp down the recoil but light enough that it can be carried all day without too much discomfort. It weighs about the same as a 4" Model 19.

I bought it because, to my eyes, it's a beefed up version of the 19 (L-frame instead of K-frame) and it looks about the same (not quite as graceful, but nice, nonetheless, without the full underlug which isn't attractive to me).

 

[cdknox]

How does $499 sound for a price. It is supposedly used, but I can't tell.

 

[foxymike]

Well, there's a new one on Gunbroker on which the bid is at $601 ("reserve not met"), so I guess it's up to you.

My 520 cylinder definitely has residue on the exposed titanium, and, so far as I can remember, it's been there since I first fired it. If the cylinder is really clean, chances are it hasn't been used much, if any.

Think about what you want the gun for.

If it's a utility gun, like mine, and you want to shoot a fair amount of .357s through it without worry, then the 520 Ti 7-shot is a fine gun.

If you want something a little spiffier, with nice blueing, will shoot mostly .38 Specials, and never will shoot "hot" lighter weight .357s (which can cause forcing cone problems), get yourself a nice Model 19. I happen to think the M 19 is the most graceful gun S&W ever made, but neither my wife nor my budget will allow me to stock up on them!