I have just acquired a S&W K-38 Combat Masterpiece. I believe it's a pre-model 15. It has the ribbed 4" barrel, ramped front sight, adjustable rear sight, diamond grips. It shows holster wear at the muzzle, and has slight nicks on the lower edge of the right grip, but otherwise I'd have to call it 90%+. The serial number is 3239XX. Can anybody help me identify the date of manufacture, or know where to find a copy of the owner's manual?

I have just acquired a S&W K-38 Combat Masterpiece. I believe it's a pre-model 15. It has the ribbed 4" barrel, ramped front sight, adjustable rear sight, diamond grips. It shows holster wear at the muzzle, and has slight nicks on the lower edge of the right grip, but otherwise I'd have to call it 90%+. The serial number is 3239XX. Can anybody help me identify the date of manufacture, or know where to find a copy of the owner's manual?

Well, you need to look at the serial # again, a little harder. If you do that, you'll probably find the letter "K" separated from the number by some space. Its part of the serial. Your's is a mid 1950s gun.

If you call S&W and go to customer service, they'll probably be able to tell you the exact date. Its much better than us guessing.

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Dick Burg

Rob ,,a serial # of K323xxx would most likely be 1957. Just prior to the beginning of the model marking on the K-T frame revolvers.
I have a K-22 ,Serial # K3251xx that is a non model marked 4 screw. I have not lettered it and just have assumed since it was not model marked it just shipped in 1957.

It is altogether possible that either of our guns shipped in 1958.

Your K-38 Combat Masterpiece will be a fine shooting 38. Enjoy it.

The owners manual will be quite generic, with nothing too specific to your model gun.

But do check e bay for the proper manual or post a w.t.b. in the classifieds.

Regards ,,,AL

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NRA cert.instructor&R.S.O.

I apologize that I can't assist you with the info you seek.

I do have to say however that anyone who posts anything pertaining to a vintage, 4", with correct grips MUST share pictures. (I have no status here however so my "MUST" is really an empty threat )

Hope to see a pic soon,
Scott

Thanks for the info. After I finish cleaning and inspecting it I'll post some photos. The gun was a PD issue originally, then privately owned but unused for many years. My guess is that it was only ever fired for qualification.

Here is a pic of two CM's both 4 screws. Both in the 57-58 range.

Thanks. Mine looks like the lower one (same grips).