Difficulty Identifying Old .38 Special for Replacing Hammer Rivet

engorgedgeorge · #1 04-05-2021, 12:32 AM

Hello,

A family member recently acquired a .38 Special revolver in good condition with original blue, decent barrel spiral, checkered walnut grips, and a k-frame. Unfortunately, the rivet holding the hammer's nose in fell out, and identifying the firearm and the replacement part has proven difficult. I've searched the standard catalogue, but couldn't find anything useful.

The serial number is K 79615, and the frame has the number 42277 stamped where the cylinder yoke rests. It looks similar to a .38 Outdoorsman or a Model 14.

Muley Gil · #2 04-05-2021, 01:31 AM

Welcome to the Forum.

I'll attach a link to Numrich Arms in a second.

Smith & Wesson 14-4 Revolver Parts, Schematics | Numrich Gun Parts

It is part number 51-hammer nose rivet.

murphydog · #3 04-05-2021, 07:53 AM

It's a K-38 Masterpiece, made in about 1949. After about 1957 it was also called the model 14. The part mentioned has been generic to all K frames for quite a few years so if you had guessed that size frame you would have bought the right part. Enjoy!