Which one would you keep?

[jsfricks]

This thread could go one of two places but I'll start here. I'm trying to add more 5 screw and 22lr pistols to my collection and when I do that I usually have to free something else up. The two I'm trying to decide on to sell is a 1959ish Model 19 no dash in 98% and a 1969ish Model 15 in 99%++. The 19 is older which I like but the 15 has the best trigger I've felt. We all know what opinions are like but I would like some input in case I'm missing something here and don't want any sellers remorse. Which would you keep? keeping both would be great but not possible if i get this other one.I'm freeing up money for a nice K22 Outdoorsman with nice original red box (enroute) and possibly a nice K22 Pre 18 in box.
Model 19

Model 15-3

[sodacan]

Good luck with that decision. I'm glad I don't have to make it. You won't have any trouble selling either one. Personally, I'd keep the 19. Good luck.

[murphydog]

Assuming someone is not willing to pay far (150-200%) above current value, I would keep the model 19 as it would be much more difficult to replace.

[jsfricks]

Originally Posted by sodacan

I don't envy your having to make that decision. My two cents: If you slow down the accumulation process, you'll be able to keep everything. Great guns are always out there. You'll eventually be able to obtain most of what you want, and you won't regret selling what you have. Goodluck.

Your probably right, but when I come across NIB K22's from the 30's and early 50's I don't see myself coming up with that kind of money without selling something else. And when the irons hot, ya gotta strike!

[Russell Cottle]

Since I'm a shooter, and not a collector, I'd keep the '19. It's more versatil.

[Sebago Son]

Combat Masterpieces with good triggers are not uncommon. Most shoot well in my experience, so as Moosedog says, the 15-3 will be the most replaceable.

However, you will get the greatest return of cash for the Combat Magnum. What is it's aprox. serial range?

Drew

[DAinTX]

Tough call. I'd probably keep the 19...but I sure wouldn't let the Grashorn's go with the 15.

[jsfricks]

Originally Posted by Sebago Son

Combat Masterpieces with good triggers are not uncommon. Most shoot well in my experience, so as Moosedog says, the 15-3 will be the most replaceable.

However, you will get the greatest return of cash for the Combat Magnum. What is it's aprox. serial range?

Drew

I'm out of town on vacation and didn't bring that one with me but I believe it's in the K356000 range.

[samandglove1]

I'd keep the 19 no dash for collectibility and versatility. I have seen very few pop up for sale over the last few years.

[FPrice]

Sell the model 15.

[Retired W4]

That is a problem you have, for sure. I would stick with the 19 no dash, but that's because I have a couple 15-3's that are really nice. Which ever you decide to sell bring it by our tables this weekend and give us a crack at it.

Tom

[1blindref]

I'd sell the 19 ....... to me

[RKmesa]

Jeff:

Great photos of both guns! As you're aware, I have a K-22 Outdoorsman affliction, but my 1st S&W obsession was the Combat Magnum. I made and attempt to obtain an example of each and every P&R engineering change, in each and every finish, in each and every barrel length. I came close, but after 30-40 guns, I gave up...

The Outdoorsman that is coming your direction appears to me to be a great example of my current favorite S&W revolver and the boxed pre-18's are another one of my favorites. However, as some have suggested, you'll be hard pressed to ever find another 4-screw Combat Magnum in that condition.

If at all possible, I'd work a bunch of overtime, or do something to try and hold on to both 19 and the K-22. The 15-3 (although very nice) can be replaced without much effort. And there are generally 1 or 2 very nice pre-18s available for sale.

Good Luck!!! Can't wait for you to get that OD and post some of your great photos...

[RV4driver]

I've got a 686+ with Grashorn grips, but it's screaming for something square butt with no lock...what are you looking for for either one?

Jeff

[IraIII]

I would love a 19 made in 1959, that would be a birth year, favorite model gun for me. It seems that you would like to free up cash for future purchases, and you like the trigger on the 15 so I assume you shoot it, therefore for you sell the 19 as it's value is far and away higher than the 15, and you don't show any favoritsm for the 19.
If the guns were mine you would not be able to buy the 19 from me, only my estate. Make sure that you price the 19 appropriately, no dash 19's do not show up much, and are pricey when found.