The other day, I made a post on here in regards to pros and cons on the Model 15 versus the Model 19. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of great responses - proving that both models are loved dearly. I had located a M15 and a M19 and finally got to go take a look at them this past week. First off, I'm 61 and the 38 spl is my favorite cartridge - I do own a couple of 357s but I don't like the recoil, etc. - I have some arthritis in the hands and shoulders - let's face it, I'm getting old! Everyone has their preferences and I respect that. I went with the intention of purchasing both - stretch the budget a little - but if they were good, I was going to do it. The 19 would give me the option of shooting 357s if I ever wanted to.

So, I made the trip . . . took some "horse trading" things and was ready to pull the trigger on both if I could. Well . . . the best laid plans as they say. When I got to the place, the Model 19 was gone! Hmmm . . . "those who snooze, loose". But, the Model 15 was there!

I looked it over - it was in very nice shape - great trigger in SA and DA, tight and crisp. There was a very little wear on the blue near the edge of the muzzle - not a problem as I want a "shooter". It had been well taken care of . . really doesn't look like it was shot a whole lot but probably carried in a holster - no LE markings. The original grips had been changed out to some smooth ones - they remind me of cocobola or similar. Well, after looking it over real well, I brought it up and it instantly went to my normal sight picture. It felt sooooo good! If this thing was any sweeter, it would have frosting dripping off of it with candles on top.

I mentioned that it was too bad that the 19 was gone and the guy said . . . "do you like older Smiths?". I just smiled and said "heck yes, who doesn't?" He retrieved what looked like to be a pre-10 with a 5 inch barrel. I have an old M & P 4th change Target model with a 6 inch barrel - fine for target and range but other than that, I don't like that long of a barrel. I wasn't really too enthused about a 5" barrel . . . until I looked it over and sighted it. What a feel it had! The revolver has some blue wear - not bad - again, a little at the muzzle and at the bottom corners of the frame from holster wear. It was nice and tight, great SA and DA trigger . . . so . . . it was screaming to me.

As a result . . . both the 15 and the pre-10 came home with me. And let me say, all the things you guys said about the 15 is certainly true!

When it all shook out and the horse trading was done, I have a little under $350.00 in each of them. I really don't know if the Pre-10 is worth that but to me it is . . . it is just a really nice vintage Smith and I know it will be a great shooter. I have passed on some Model 10s in the past - most had been rode hard and put away wet - I passed up a mint one last winter like a fool but I had just purchased another handgun so didn't want to go "hog wild" as they say. At some point, I'll find one but for now, with the M & P 4th change, the 15, the Pre 10 and my Model 36 I have 6", 5", 4" and 2" barrels - plenty to play with in regards to my reloads, etc.

It finally dawned on me why I like the "vintage" wheel guns so much. I have a 4" Python - yea, I know they are supposed to be the "Rolls Royce" - I keep it as an investment but I hate it - to me, it's like a "boat anchor". I finally figured out that I don't like all of that extra "iron" and ejection rod shrouds, etc. I like the looks and feel of a good old hand ejector.

So that is the saga of my adventure in regards to the 15 versus the 19. I didn't come home with the19 but I'm very happy with what I did find. With my 38 spl reloading, I have a feeling these two are going to get a lot of use.

I'm posting photos of the 15 and pre-10 as well as a "group photo" of my whole "Smith Family".

Thanks to all who shared so much great information - it's greatly appreciated! I'm going to post some more photos on another thread to see if any of you can give me the DOB of these two revolvers. Many thanks!

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I'm still kind of new here, but both the 15 and the pre 10 are 5 screws. I would think a little under 350 each is a GREAT deal! Enjoy your new toys.

You done good!!!!
I haven't come accross a pre-M10 yet, but I keep looking.

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Only difference Fool/Mule-ears

I wonder... does the serial number on your "pre-10 start with a "K". It looks as though it might be a Pre 14, or better known as the K38 Target Masterpiece. This is one of, if not the most, accurate revolvers ever made. The Target Masterpiece was commonly used in the Bullseye Leagues and in competition up through the '60's and into the '70's. They are mighty fine examples of the revolversmith's art.

John

I think you got a great deal. On the post above I "Believe" the pre model 14 would have adjustable sights.

Mike

Mchom, you are of course, correct. I thought the "6" pre-10" was the top revolver in the 4-gun family portrait. I guess I am incorrect (which is not the first time, alas...)

John

K frame goodness.
Hard to ask for much more than a mild shooting, shockingly accurate revolver.
I, too never cared for full power .357 recoil from a K frame.

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What would Jim Cirillo do?

I read your previous post, thanks for the update. Recently I had the option of a 19 or a 10-8 HB. Able to afford one but not both, I bought the 10-8. Like you I prefer to shoot .38s or .38+Ps instead of .357s. Even though it has a HB, the 10-8 handles so much better than the 19. In fact, my newest 10-8 is my second one. I prefer .38s in my K frames and leave the .357 s to my L frame.

I think you got a great deal. I'm looking for a shooter 15 myself