For the question "did S&W produce 4" Model 14s" there really needs to be multiple-choice answers including "all of the above". Many correct answers appear in this thread but we'll really need a good partial serial number to be more specific which example one has.

Here is a 14-3 that was factory produced in July 1971 in a special run. So far no evidence has surfaced of a special order from a LE agency or distributor for this run . . . and since they were distributed in batches of 20-25 to several large dealers . . . I'm assuming it was to test the market for a target sighted 4" heavy barrel holster gun.



And yes these 14-3s were factory cut 6" Model 14 barrels with Baughman front sight (on the left) . . . and not the heavy (model 10-like) barrel profile of the Dayton guns (on the right).



Russ

edit to add: the S&W factory was not consistent but, for the most part, a 6" barrel with Patridge front sight was referred to as the K-38 Masterpiece and any shorter barrel length (including 5" as well as 4") with Baughman front sight was referred to as a K-38 Combat Masterpiece.

2nd edit to add: collectors came up the term "Target Masterpiece" for the 6" version