So I have a 1948 K38 literally on the way in the mail to my FFL - my first revolver. All parts of the gun have matching numbers, including grips/stocks. My primary use for this gun is simply shooting targets and small game for fun and the table. Is there any advantage to putting target grips/stocks on it for my needs? I'm not bullseye competition shooting, but I do like a good fitting gun. Thanks!

Congratulations on a fine pick for your first S&W revolver. You may want to try a grip adapter with the magna stocks. Here'a a pic of my K38 Heavy Masterpiece with a Tyler T-Grip. With the grip adapter, it fit's my hand quite well and is quite comfortable to shoot with. A cheaper alternative to target stocks.

Welcome to the revolver section of the forum.
For my snub nose K Frames, I prefer the magna stocks. I tried grip adapters, but they put my middle finger in contact with the trigger guard and are uncomfortable for me.
For the 4 inch and longer K Frames, I prefer the S&W checkered target stocks. I have large hands and they fit them well. I've tried aftermarket target stocks but was always disappointed. The S&W stocks fit me just right.
The best course of action for you would be to try to handle another K Frame with target stocks and one with a grip adapter (from a friend or the LGS) to see if they better fit your hands and if you'd like them.
If you decide to get a pair, they can be found and purchased from the classified section of this forum, Ebay, or a gun show (I'm always on the lookout at shows for old beat up stocks that are cheap and just need a little refinishing to look just fine for shooting). The internet will also enable you to find many aftermarket grip suppliers.
If you want period correct stocks (with a diamond around the screw escutcheon, they will be pricey. However, if your target masterpiece is in really nice shape, I believe that a beautiful set of targets will only enhance its appearance.
George

Well fitting grips enhance your accuracy. Try various different grips and styles and find those that fit you best. (But keep the original stocks that came on the gun so they can be replaced to bring it back to original someday).

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

IMO depends on the size of your hand and finger length .

I have long fingers so the older target grips work great for me as do the new Herrets,
later 70's era factory targets got a bit larger ,
My buddy has a smaller hand with shorter wider fingers and prefers Magnas or FG Combats .

BTW the non relieved S&W target grip was introduced in 1950 .

The only advantage in target stocks in how they feel in your hand. If you have a big hand or long fingers you may prefer the larger stocks. Not everyone likes the larger stocks and some guys specifically don't like the feel of factory targets. You don't know until you try them.

I like the looks of target stocks on revolvers with at least a 4" barrel. Others don't. What do YOU like?

BTW- Targets were not available in 1948 so they would not be "correct" for your K38 and the purist would object.

I targets on many of my revolvers. To look somewhat period correct you would need the pre-1968 style with the diamonds around the screw. If you are unconcerned with correct appearance any K frame square butt stock will fit.

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No life story has happy end.

Target stocks do make a big difference in target shooting for me. I recently bought a K-38 Masterpiece with after-market stocks that I found both functional and attractive. Did not know who made them until someone on the Forum had the answer. They were made by Altamont and were the finger-grooved Super Walnut, plus they are made in USA. I will also mention that ebay has a boat-load of K frame target stocks made in Thailand. I bought a pair for a Spanish knockoff of a Colt Python and they are very nice as well.

Altamont Company

There are quite a few stocks offered by this company and they look great for $50. No matter what you do, keep the factory stocks.

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Gary
SWCA 2515