I've seen a few similar posts in these forums, but none seem to match this revolver, so if you have the time info, I would appreciate any help in a S&W gun ID.
My uncle passed away unexpectedly and I am trying to find out if this gun might have been my grandfather's service revolver. He retired from the USAF after a career in bombers at the end of WWII then MP duty in various places after that.

Right side of 4" barrel, 38 S&W SPECIAL CTG
Right side of frame,
MADE IN USA
MARCAS REGISTRADAS

Left side, under cylinder
L
47799
2

serial under barrel, bottom of handle and back of cylinder
K 274xxx

Some photos here..
http://www.flickr.com/photos/2065962...7628478283059/

I haven't seen any photos with the same sights on one of these, and I'm curious because my grandfather did shoot competitively (I have his trophies). It would be nice to think that I have a memento of that part of his life.

Thanks so much for any info, Don J.

Don,

Couldja just post a pic, the link took me to 1 page out of 134!
Sounds like a K-38, a very nice target revolver.

Mike

Thanks PH-2.. that was supposed to a set of 3 photos.. here a link to just one.. http://www.flickr.com/photos/2065962...7628478283059/

That just might be a 1956 Pre-Model 15 K-38 Combat Masterpiece...

__________________
FBINA, 204th Session

S&W Combat Masterpiece (pre Model 15), the sights are normal for it.

Thank you all for your quick replies. I have no reason to doubt that this was my grandfather's gun and I will treasure it as such.

On a side note, it is a good reminder to tell and write down the histories of any special firearms you have just in case!

One of the all-time great S&W revolvers, looking in tip-top condition. You are a lucky man.

The Air Force issued and carried the Combat Masterpiece. This one does not indicate any US Govt ownership, and is unlikely to be.
It is likely he owned a duplicate of the issue weapon...a common situation among professional military men. The one you picture is in superb condition with original grips.
You can request your grandfather's service records from St Louis, then request a letter on the gun from S&W. You may very well find the gun may have shipped to a place where your grandfather happened to be stationed, or very nearby.

Thanks for that info gkitch. I definitely need to get service records because I also want to know the story behind his Distinguished Flying Cross medal!

I agree with the others, it appears to be a pre 15 combat masterpiece. Some of the best revolvers ever built.

Outstanding gun, the model 15 other masterpiece guns like it are outstanding shooters.