Before we move forward in CM evolution I think its important to talk about the Combat Magnum ,
The Combat Magnum was developed to make the power of the large N frame .357 Magnum cartridge available in the smaller Masterpiece K frame .

The Combat Magnum (Pre Model 19) was introduced at serial K260001 in 1955 as a 4 screw frame with 6 groove tangs ,
6 groove tangs


Kind of a combination of existing ideas it had target grips instead of the Magnas, shrouded ejector rod of the Pre Model 27 and the non tapered wide rib barrel of the K38 "Heavy Masterpiece" (pre Model 14) and although intended for LEO use no matte version was produced as a separate economy model like the Highway Patrolman.


1956 Combat Magnum Serial K261043 shipped June 28, 1956 shown with 1955 K22 CM Serial K246498.