Model 15-3 changed to 14-3

[olnavy72]

Last month I bought a older used Model 14-3, 6" with Patridge front sight from an estate. When I checked the ser# 1k2XXX I saw that it was originally marked at a Mod 15-3 with the 5 stamped over to a 4. Does anyone have info on why or what happen? I'm pretty sure this was done at the factory.

[JP@AK]

The frame on the 14 and 15 are the same. Specifically, the -3 of both models is the same, having the same relocation of the rear sight leaf screw from the -2s. One explanation is that this frame was coming down the line in a production run of the Combat Masterpiece when an order was received for a Model 14. So, the different barrel was attached and the model number changed.

Or something like that.

Another possibility is that it was just stamped incorrectly to begin with, someone caught it, and it was over-stamped. I guess Occam's razor would apply here and that explanation would be more likely.