Smith and Wesson Model 520

[Alex45ACP]

I'm looking at .357 Magnum revolvers and I like the looks of the new model 520. Anyone know what kind of finish that is? Any comments on this gun?

 

[RustyShackelford]

S&W model 520 .357/.38 revolver

If I were you I would wait about a 1yr 18mo before buying a new Smith and Wesson model 520 .357/.38spl. The model 520 is new and I'd think S&W will have minor problems and mistakes with this new line. Many major gun companies have recalls and issue warnings for new models so I'd wait until this passes.

The 520 is a mix of different metals so the weight is kept down. Many shooters have problems with these magnum revolvers breaking down with excessive magnum load use. If you shoot a lot of .38spl and .38 +P/+P+ you should not have any problems.

Most gun magazine reviews for the 520 have been positive and I'm sure it will stay in the Smith and Wesson line for several years.

Rusty S

 

[Alex45ACP]

Bump.

 

[LiquidTension]

I've handled two of them and I have to say I'm not impressed. The grips look like wood but feel like plastic. Not only do they feel cheap, they don't match the curve of the frame - there was a noticeable gap between the backstrap and the back of the grips. I have a feeling this would be quite uncomfortable, especially with magnum loads. The trigger is also the worst I've felt on a S&W revolver - imagine dragging an anchor through a gravel pit. Granted, I've only handled two examples but they both had these flaws. The 620 is the same design but in stainless and it didn't exhibit the same shortcomings.

 

[Checkman]

The 520 was introduced at the beginning of 2005. As was the 620. A frined who works behind the gun counter at the local Sportsmans Warehouse told me that they sale a fair amount and that they haven't had any QC issues.

 

[Action_Can_Do]

If they made one with a steel cylinder, I would want one badly. Unfortunately.....

 

[revolvergeek]

Interesting that they reused the model number from the old all steel n-frame. I like have a vintage 520 and it is slick.

 

[Rangie]

The shorter trigger stroke of the 7-shooter and the lightweight Ti cylinder make a great combination.

I have a 386 and a 520 both work just fine.