Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 3-Screw PINNED Barrel SWING-OUT Cylinder Hand Ejectors WITH Model Numbers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:13 AM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,370 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default Combat Masterpiece!



The Combat Masterpiece, later called the Model 15, was probably the ultimate expression of the classic .38 Special medium-frame revolver from Smith & Wesson. Although the basic frame and rudimentary lockwork originated way back in 1899, the Combat Masterpiece debuted in 1949. It was designed to double as both a defense piece and a target arm, and it certainly filled the bill.

It was equipped with the latest S&W adjustable rear sight, and the front sight was the classic Baughman ramp model for a snag-free draw. The hammer was either semi-target or target, and the trigger came in various styles as well. This revolver was made back in the heyday of S&W production care, and the parts were hand-fitted to assure smooth and proper function. The Magna-style stocks were individually fitted to the frames. The barrel rib was grooved, as was the rear sight topstrap and the back of the grip frame. The bluing was superb; that classic S&W blue-black color that was so deep you could swim in it. A trigger overtravel stop was incorporated. The K-frame seemed to be just about right in the hands of most folks; it was neither too light nor too heavy. The .38 special was a proven round that most people could handle well, both accurate and sufficiently powerful for self-defense.

This revolver was indeed a "masterpiece."

Production of the piece continued for 50 years, finally terminating officially in November of 1999, although some special editions were subsequently made.

The revolver pictured here is a Model 15-3, which I estimate was made in 1971. It has a semi-target hammer and a grooved trigger. The stocks are numbered to the gun on the inside. This is a particularly nice specimen, virtually untouched after so many years; I acquired it just recently.

I thought I'd share a picture of this classic revolver; a somewhat larger one is available in the pictures and albums section of the forum.

John
__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Last edited by PALADIN85020; 04-29-2012 at 12:13 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:34 AM
Vulcan Bob's Avatar
Vulcan Bob Vulcan Bob is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: central pa
Posts: 5,336
Likes: 2,745
Liked 2,492 Times in 1,182 Posts
Default

A very fine example of the M-15 you have there. I do agree the Combat Masterpiece is one of the best platforms for the .38 Special. When I say "one of the best" I have to take into account the Model ten of course.
__________________
Stay safe people!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #3  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:34 AM
Steve in Vermont Steve in Vermont is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,969
Likes: 256
Liked 1,383 Times in 522 Posts
Default

Brings back good memories. Was standard issue in our police academy in 1968. What more can you say about such a gun. Accurate right out of the box, rugged, dependable, easy to carry, etc. The only problem wasn't with the gun but with the ammo. 158 gr LRN was standard issue, before improvements came along. Thanks for posting.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:40 AM
blackdeuce blackdeuce is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Nebraska
Posts: 1,568
Likes: 2,032
Liked 1,264 Times in 409 Posts
Default

Nice gun and nice photo!

I like that background. Can you buy that paper?
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #5  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:53 AM
Cleandean's Avatar
Cleandean Cleandean is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: VIGILANT CURMUDGEON /Pa.
Posts: 285
Likes: 415
Liked 192 Times in 108 Posts
Default

What a fine example ; can hardly discern the cylinder ring. Glad to see it does'nt wear goodyears. That Palladin ...."Have gun, camera, and computer, WILL TRAVEL."
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 04-29-2012, 12:05 PM
Art Doc's Avatar
Art Doc Art Doc is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: The kidney of Dixie.
Posts: 10,509
Likes: 49
Liked 13,408 Times in 3,290 Posts
Default

The M&P/M10 is usually cited as the quintessential S&W but I lean towards the CM/M15 as being the truly classic 38 S&W revolver.

That's a real beauty. Good thing I didn't find it as I'd be shooting it.
__________________
No life story has happy end.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 04-29-2012, 12:10 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,370 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by blackdeuce View Post
Nice gun and nice photo!

I like that background. Can you buy that paper?
Smith & Wesson will probably send you some wrapping paper free if you call their customer service line and ask nicely. That's how I got mine!

John
__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 04-29-2012, 09:29 PM
Walter Rego Walter Rego is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Occupied California
Posts: 2,777
Likes: 1,512
Liked 5,558 Times in 1,602 Posts
Default

I have a Model 15-3 made in 1977. There has been much discussion of Bangor Punta era guns having uneven quality control, but this gun has absolutely perfect timing, and has zero rotation at lock up and zero end shake. It also has a nice, tight .003" barrel/cylinder gap and .357" cylinder throats. It would be one of the last ones I would ever sell.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 04-29-2012, 09:37 PM
fyimo's Avatar
fyimo fyimo is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Arkansas
Posts: 18,773
Likes: 6,048
Liked 5,762 Times in 1,992 Posts
Talking

Congratulations as they are wonderful revolvers.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 04-29-2012, 09:52 PM
C&R Bill C&R Bill is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 172
Likes: 248
Liked 36 Times in 23 Posts
Default

Very Nice!!! Those revolvers just look "right".
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 04-29-2012, 10:31 PM
GyMac GyMac is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: SW Washington
Posts: 1,107
Likes: 616
Liked 288 Times in 168 Posts
Default

Nothing against the Combat Magnum, but I prefer this gun.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #12  
Old 04-29-2012, 11:30 PM
steamloco76's Avatar
steamloco76 steamloco76 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Western Pennsylvania
Posts: 3,676
Likes: 1,769
Liked 3,702 Times in 1,242 Posts
Default

Very nice indeed.

My 15-3 is from 1971 and exhibits a near perfect build and finish too. I feel the Model 14 and 15 are the epitome of .38 Special revolvers.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #13  
Old 04-30-2012, 12:25 AM
joes4570 joes4570 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Liked 3 Times in 3 Posts
Default

I like all the K frames and the 15 is a fine example. Mine is actually a pre-15, made in 1957 I believe.
Personally I'm a bit more of a fan of the Combat Magnum for the extra weight of the full barrel but its all good.
I would have been quite delighted if Smith and Wesson had offered the full lug barrel on the 15 in a 4" instead of just a 6" (which is awesome by the way) but alas, not to be.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 04-30-2012, 12:41 AM
robctwo robctwo is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Albany, OR
Posts: 458
Likes: 6
Liked 58 Times in 27 Posts
Default

Beautiful gun.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 04-30-2012, 01:41 AM
gagunner 2 gagunner 2 is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: georgia
Posts: 263
Likes: 4
Liked 29 Times in 22 Posts
Default

The only improvement that they could make was taken
care of when they can out with the stainless model 67.
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 04-30-2012, 11:11 AM
H Richard's Avatar
H Richard H Richard is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: West Central IL
Posts: 22,758
Likes: 18,437
Liked 22,313 Times in 8,245 Posts
Default

I agree with 15's being one of the finest S&W. My 15-3 2" shoots as well as my 4".
__________________
H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #17  
Old 04-04-2014, 10:33 PM
gtoppcop gtoppcop is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2010
Location: The Cowboy State
Posts: 469
Likes: 959
Liked 1,460 Times in 257 Posts
Default

I always wanted to have a Combat Masterpice on a Model 19 frame with cylinder. Basically, a .357 Magnum Combat Masterpiece. I've seen them done by gunsmiths.

I never understood why (USAF contract perhaps?) WHY the 2-inch guns had the S/B frames. I saw a 2-inch Model 15-3 at my LGS that had been round-butted. Absolutely perfect in every respect.

Great posts gentlemen!
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 04-04-2014, 10:41 PM
JP@AK's Avatar
JP@AK JP@AK is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Palmer, Alaska
Posts: 14,477
Likes: 5,111
Liked 18,981 Times in 6,862 Posts
Default

I have to agree with you, Paladin. The CM is a genuine masterpiece. I very much like the Highway Patrolman, but the CM (including the M-15) is a true classic. It is one of the S&W models I would not ever want to be without.
Here is a photo of two of mine (note the 5" barrel on the right hand gun, made special for the Missouri State Highway Patrol in 1952). The 4" example here was a gift from my father (God rest his gentle soul).
__________________
Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #19  
Old 04-04-2014, 11:51 PM
Engine49guy's Avatar
Engine49guy Engine49guy is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2009
Location: South Florida
Posts: 7,769
Likes: 2,467
Liked 8,294 Times in 2,907 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by gtoppcop View Post
I always wanted a Combat Masterpiece (Barrel?) on a Model 19 frame (in).357 Magnum . I've seen them done by gunsmiths.

I never understood why the 2-inch guns had the S/B frames. I saw a 2-inch Model 15-3 at my LGS that had been round-butted. Absolutely perfect in every respect.
I agree the 2" snub should have been a round butt, also should have been offered in 3" length with full length ejector rod as well.

As for the Model 15 (CM) barrel mated to a Model 19 frame...
S&W did make at least one but opted for the wide rib shrouded ejector rod barrel instead, I would guess that unless its a styling issue you couldnt tell the difference holding a Model 15 in one hand and a Model 19 in the other,
Yes the wide rib HB profile with shrouded ejector rod weighs just a bit more but that extra weight does come in handy when shooting full house 357 .

It would be an interestng project and only involve cutting the forcing cone any competent gunsmith could easily accomplish,
My Model 19 dream gun would be a 5 screw frame in satin blue.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 04-05-2014, 11:20 AM
chief38's Avatar
chief38 chief38 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 17,759
Likes: 7,835
Liked 25,615 Times in 8,661 Posts
Default

The Combat masterpiece aka M15 is the quintessential S&W for any collection and no collection is complete without at least one.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #21  
Old 04-05-2014, 12:20 PM
RobertJ.'s Avatar
RobertJ. RobertJ. is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Seaside, Oregon
Posts: 6,321
Likes: 24,986
Liked 12,549 Times in 3,779 Posts
Default

Excellent photo and article!

I love the Model 10, and have always considered the Combat Masterpiece the "Model 10 Deluxe".
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #22  
Old 04-05-2014, 12:52 PM
shawn mccarver shawn mccarver is offline
SWCA Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 7,907
Likes: 3,513
Liked 6,728 Times in 2,620 Posts
Default

With advancements in ammo, the 38 Special is a better performer today than it was in past decades.

In 1977, I stood amazed when ushered into the gun vault at the Missouri State Highway Patrol range at General Headquarters (GHQ) by Roy Bergman, who was in charge of firearms training at the time.

Then Sgt. Bergman let me look through the neatly stacked two-piece blue boxes, arranged four high and ten across, for a total of 40 new or near-new Model 15s on one shelf, and the same arrangement on a different shelf of Model 18s, which they used at the beginning of training until a recruit was ready to move up to 38 Special ammo. These revolvers, I was told, remained in the vault and were used in training, and later in the course of training, recruits would be issued the actual revolver they would carry on duty. That was quite a sight to behold, because, at that time, I had never seen that many of the same model stacked up like that.

I recall that the wax paper was gone from each box, and the cleaning kits that came with the revolvers were assembled, the brass bristle brush on the S&W cleaning rods, and all were laying in a tray or two on tables used for cleaning the revolvers.

Later considered a big no-no, but at the time they used WD-40 for both cleaner and lube and it was in large plastic bottles with a typical squeeze handle sprayer at the top. Cleaning consisted of "slathering" WD-40 all over the exterior and down the barrel and charge holes followed by a quick scrub of the barrel and charge holes with the S&W brass bristle brushes, followed by an exterior wipe-down with a shop rag and patches in the bore and charge holes. A quick process indeed. Sgt. Bergman inspected each revolver before it went back in its two-piece box and back on the shelf.

That same room had an armorer's assembly work station with parts drawers and S&W armorer's tools neatly arranged. Those drawers had a big supply of all of the parts needed to maintain the revolvers except frames, barrels and cylinders. All of the internals were represented in those little drawers, and any firearm could be repaired for common conditions of timing, etc. right on the spot. If replacement of a major component was required, the revolver would be sent to S&W. Sgt. Bergman did real duty action jobs, the S&W preferred way, the same way the factory trained him. As might be imagined, it did not involve merely replacing some springs from a "kit" and calling it a day. Judicious stoning and polishing made the actions he did very good indeed, but completely reliable in ignition.

Back in those days, much shooting was done in the classic NRA Bullseye stance, with some shooting in an isosceles two-hand stance when shooting the PPC.

Sorry for the long post, but seeing that beautiful Model 15 brings back memories. Sgt. Bergman retired as a Captain, and although he kept himself in excellent physical shape, he passed away suddenly in 2010 at 75 years of age, and without warning of an aneurysm, I believe. No way to predict it, no way to deal with it in most cases. Terrible loss.

Here is Bergman (on the right) after a lunch with him at Madison's in Jefferson City, Missouri just a few months before he passed away. Russ, George and I were treated to a great number of the "old stories of the road" during the extended lunch meeting.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg McCarver, Shawn with Roy Bergman 4-16-2010 2.jpg (101.4 KB, 262 views)

Last edited by shawn mccarver; 04-05-2014 at 02:03 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 04-05-2014, 01:00 PM
Fafner Fafner is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Ohio
Posts: 15
Likes: 14
Liked 77 Times in 9 Posts
Default



This 15-2 belonged to our Township Constable and was bought new by him in 1967. It is one I'll always keep.
__________________
Buckeye Firearms Assn.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #24  
Old 05-02-2014, 11:14 PM
gtoppcop gtoppcop is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2010
Location: The Cowboy State
Posts: 469
Likes: 959
Liked 1,460 Times in 257 Posts
Default

Wonderful Guns indeed. I wish that S&W would attach the old monikers to their guns. Names like Combat Magnum, Combat Masterpiece, Distinguished Combat Masterpice, Military and Police (revolver-type) are names that conjer the images of reading the old Gil Hebard catalogs from the 60s.

I have a 1975-vintage 13-1 that I'm going to have a Camp Pendleton-area trophy shop engrave: .357 MILITARY AND POLICE on the smooth backstrap. I will then fill it in with gold leaf paint for a nice nod to the past. With a set of Spegels (with open backstrap), it should be a decent-looking piece.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 05-03-2014, 11:11 AM
deserttrans's Avatar
deserttrans deserttrans is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Arizona
Posts: 88
Likes: 8
Liked 37 Times in 13 Posts
Default

Here is my 15-3, with 3 tees.

DSC02430.JPG
__________________
FREEDOM ain't free!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #26  
Old 05-03-2014, 12:39 PM
jsfricks's Avatar
jsfricks jsfricks is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Kennesaw,Ga
Posts: 2,579
Likes: 3,939
Liked 5,521 Times in 1,148 Posts
Default

This Pre 15 will soon be in my stable. A very early one shipped in August of 1950 to Gen. George Van Orden.

__________________
That's what she said!
Reply With Quote
The Following 8 Users Like Post:
  #27  
Old 05-11-2014, 11:27 PM
075's Avatar
075 075 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Ohio
Posts: 78
Likes: 90
Liked 14 Times in 13 Posts
Default

Great photos.

I just picked up a cherry 15-3 NIB myself last week.

Target hammer, smooth as silk and sweet as a peach.

Steve
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 05-12-2014, 04:46 PM
BigBill BigBill is offline
Absent Comrade
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Planet earth
Posts: 13,869
Likes: 2,079
Liked 13,352 Times in 5,549 Posts
Default

I grabbed a k38 combat masterpiece 4" and a k38 target masterpiece 6" barrel. These are my pride and joy older s&w revolvers there both pre model numbers.

What other barrel lengths did these come in?
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 05-12-2014, 05:25 PM
sac-gunslinger sac-gunslinger is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Rancho Cordova, CA
Posts: 1,014
Likes: 1,078
Liked 778 Times in 411 Posts
Default

I was at an NRA instructor's school back in the early 80's, worked hard to shoot perfect score with my 1911. Just for drill, I took my M67 (a naked Combat Masterpeice?) to the line. With no practice, no special ammo, no special stocks, I shot wihtin one point of my best 1911 score. Now that is a "user friendly" gun.

As I thought about this over the years, this convinced me to sell my 45s. I shoot only 38/357 now, still loooking for an M15 for general shooting use. My primary gun is an M66 with 2 1/2" barrel, arguably a descendent of the Combat Masterpiece.
__________________
"Sacramento" Bruce Conklin
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 05-12-2014, 09:30 PM
Retired W4's Avatar
Retired W4 Retired W4 is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Atlanta area
Posts: 8,796
Likes: 15,769
Liked 19,344 Times in 4,349 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by PALADIN85020 View Post


The Combat Masterpiece, later called the Model 15, was probably the ultimate expression of the classic .38 Special medium-frame revolver from Smith & Wesson. Although the basic frame and rudimentary lockwork originated way back in 1899, the Combat Masterpiece debuted in 1949. It was designed to double as both a defense piece and a target arm, and it certainly filled the bill.

It was equipped with the latest S&W adjustable rear sight, and the front sight was the classic Baughman ramp model for a snag-free draw. The hammer was either semi-target or target, and the trigger came in various styles as well. This revolver was made back in the heyday of S&W production care, and the parts were hand-fitted to assure smooth and proper function. The Magna-style stocks were individually fitted to the frames. The barrel rib was grooved, as was the rear sight topstrap and the back of the grip frame. The bluing was superb; that classic S&W blue-black color that was so deep you could swim in it. A trigger overtravel stop was incorporated. The K-frame seemed to be just about right in the hands of most folks; it was neither too light nor too heavy. The .38 special was a proven round that most people could handle well, both accurate and sufficiently powerful for self-defense.

This revolver was indeed a "masterpiece."

Production of the piece continued for 50 years, finally terminating officially in November of 1999, although some special editions were subsequently made.

The revolver pictured here is a Model 15-3, which I estimate was made in 1971. It has a semi-target hammer and a grooved trigger. The stocks are numbered to the gun on the inside. This is a particularly nice specimen, virtually untouched after so many years; I acquired it just recently.

I thought I'd share a picture of this classic revolver; a somewhat larger one is available in the pictures and albums section of the forum.

John
Wow! I'm glad that one was brought back.
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 05-12-2014, 11:50 PM
Frank46 Frank46 is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: New Iberia, Louisiana
Posts: 4,588
Likes: 25,427
Liked 3,380 Times in 1,736 Posts
Default

Been to more than a few gun shows and very rarely do I see model 15's up for sale. When I did they went for what I feel is overpriced and not exactly in the best of shape. To sum it up "them that has then aren't going to let them go anytime soon" 'Nuff said.And yes I have one. Frank
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 05-13-2014, 11:50 AM
Jim NNN Jim NNN is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Apr 2011
Posts: 798
Likes: 1,218
Liked 490 Times in 276 Posts
Default

Just ordered a 15-2...numbers to about 1964. We'll see how it works when I get it. I think they're cool.
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 05-13-2014, 10:35 PM
Jaymo Jaymo is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,668
Likes: 3,512
Liked 1,578 Times in 912 Posts
Default

I disagree about the 10s and CMs being the quintessential S&W .38 revolvers.
I'm a lifelong Colt fan and find the Smith K frames to be the quintessential .38 revolvers, PERIOD. Regardless of make.
For me, they are the perfect size and are perfectly balanced.

Hell, I'd go as far as to say the CM is the quintessential DA revolver.
It's just so perfect. It's equally at home as a duty gun or a target gun.
Usually, there are compromises. Better at one, not so great at another.
With the CM, there seem to be no compromises.

I got lucky. Somebody had traded what became my 15-3 in on a Glock (BARF).
I got a good deal on it.
I ain't letting it go.
Damn sure, not for a stinking Block.
__________________
What would Jim Cirillo do?
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 05-13-2014, 11:55 PM
Engine49guy's Avatar
Engine49guy Engine49guy is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2009
Location: South Florida
Posts: 7,769
Likes: 2,467
Liked 8,294 Times in 2,907 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BigBill View Post
I grabbed a k38 combat masterpiece 4" and a k38 target masterpiece 6" barrel. These are my pride and joy older s&w revolvers there both pre model numbers.

What other barrel lengths did these come in?
The tapered barrel guns were only made in 4", 5" and 6" lengths although we have seen one special order 3" Pinto posted.

There was also a wide rib 2" HB Model 15 as well as wide rib 4",5",6" and 8 3/8" versions after the dash 4.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 05-14-2014, 08:54 PM
ben1 ben1 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: texas
Posts: 248
Likes: 142
Liked 102 Times in 52 Posts
Default

Great photos. Beautiful guns. Today I saw a 15-3 nickle that was in fantastic conditon. They were asking $450. I resisted today but thanks to all you enablers I will be there when he opens in the morning. It was a 2 inch. Love my 19-3s my 13-3 and my 686 but this 15-3 is calling me.
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 05-14-2014, 09:59 PM
highpower3006 highpower3006 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Reno NV
Posts: 264
Likes: 23
Liked 442 Times in 116 Posts
Default

I wish mine was in that condition. Mine dates from 1954 and has been rode hard and put away wet. BUT, it still shoots great and has that smooth trigger pull that come from being shot a bunch.

Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #37  
Old 05-15-2014, 08:51 AM
Old Corp's Avatar
Old Corp Old Corp is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Coastal NC
Posts: 2,936
Likes: 2,338
Liked 4,673 Times in 1,599 Posts
Default

Yep, picked up a very used 15-3 a couple of years ago when I was working p/t at a different LGS.
Mechanically perfect, but had obviously been a 'working gun' for many years.
Boss made me pay $150 for it.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg M15.jpg (56.9 KB, 99 views)
__________________
Ret'd LEO
SWCA #2275
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #38  
Old 05-15-2014, 09:53 AM
7shooter 7shooter is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: In the Cloud
Posts: 1,736
Likes: 2,252
Liked 1,872 Times in 582 Posts
Default

I gave a beautiful Model 15 to my son when he graduated from law school. I got it cheap at a gun show because someone had messed up the trigger which my gunsmith did a great job fixing.

He is one lucky attorney.
__________________
I like Ike.
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 05-15-2014, 10:36 AM
glenncal1 glenncal1 is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 2,670
Likes: 2
Liked 3,397 Times in 971 Posts
Default

This one has had a total of 6 shots fired through it. I don't usually buy safe queens but got this at a good price and decided to keep basically unfired. They balance great in the hand:

__________________
Jim
Many K and N Frames
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #40  
Old 05-15-2014, 07:58 PM
Moe Mentum Moe Mentum is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Central Florida
Posts: 798
Likes: 582
Liked 470 Times in 273 Posts
Default

i am blessed to have not one, but two of these fine pistols....
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 05-18-2014, 10:47 PM
tlshores tlshores is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Mar 2014
Posts: 33
Likes: 3
Liked 15 Times in 13 Posts
Default

Wow. Thanks for the memories guys.
The Model 15 Combat Masterpiece was the first handgun I ever owned.
I bought mine new in 1973. I later turned my attention to Model 19's and eventually L frames but I always loved that 38.
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 05-19-2014, 01:12 AM
charlie sherrill charlie sherrill is offline
SWCA Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Brooklyn,Ms. 39425
Posts: 4,793
Likes: 2,422
Liked 9,440 Times in 2,048 Posts
Default

I've got two. Both are nickel. The real nice one my Mom bought new back in the 60's. It's got box, papers, sales receipt ($67.00) and tools. She shot it just enough to win a first place trophy in a local police citizens match. The other was owned by my wife. I bought it for her from a New Orleans LEO when she first became a LEO in 1973. He was headed to the door of a gun shop to trade it for a magnum. He was miffed because he had emptied it into a guy the night before and the guy was still able to get another shot off at him before he died. He missed. It has an action job and is butter smooth. I tool first place at a refresher class against a bunch of rookies with bottom feeders in 1999. One goes to my son and the other my daughter one day.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #43  
Old 05-19-2014, 04:00 PM
FPrice's Avatar
FPrice FPrice is offline
US Veteran
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Massachusetts
Posts: 940
Likes: 404
Liked 1,185 Times in 415 Posts
Default

My LGS just got a used Model 15-3. Serial no. 1K144xx (early 1971?). Half a blue box (the bottom half) with instruction sheets for the Model 15, Model 37, and Model 64. The gun is in good cosmetic shape, good blueing and barely discernible drag line on the cylinder, narrow grooved trigger and wide target hammer. The DA trigger pull is SMOOTH! Worst part (next to the price) was it was wearing those godawful Hogue grips that screw into a collar on the bottom of the grip. No wood grips included.

But at $600 I just can't pull the trigger (pun intended) on this. Sad.
__________________
Frosty
S&WCA # 2816
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 05-19-2014, 05:30 PM
ikor ikor is offline
Member
Combat Masterpiece! Combat Masterpiece!  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Florida
Posts: 693
Likes: 122
Liked 187 Times in 114 Posts
Default

Just bought a like new 4in blued M15-4 with box and papers today. Bonus is it has a factory Target hammer and trigger (box marked as such). I am more of a M19 / 66 guy usually but I figured it might be a long time before I found another pinned barrel M15 in this condition for the price. I have another, a M15-3, as well as a M15-3 snub, but I do loves me some K frames. :-)
__________________
Run Fast, Bite Hard!
Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
baughman, combat masterpiece, grooved, k-frame, lock, m10, masterpiece, model 10, model 14, model 15, model 19, overtravel, punta, smith & wesson, smith and wesson

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Is this a K38 Masterpiece or Combat Masterpiece? Al(Gilbert,AZ) S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 22 05-22-2017 06:16 PM
Target Masterpiece or Combat Masterpiece? Ed59 S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 12 07-16-2015 08:22 AM
A pair of Combat Magnum's, Combat Masterpiece(M67(No dash)and M64-3 bigun S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 2 04-10-2013 12:44 PM
K22 Combat Masterpiece szuppo S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 11 10-30-2010 01:11 AM
Masterpiece vs Combat Masterpiece? duckloads S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 15 01-05-2009 10:24 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 07:33 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)