New member with Model 15-3

[PennTom]

Hello,

I am very impressed with this forum and all the information I have read so far.

I was in my local gun store yesterday and it was very busy. I was standing behind two friends that were looking at S&W Model 10 and Model 15 revolvers. The would-be buyer wanted the Model 10 and his friend was pointing out that the model 15 was in much better condition and was an excellent gun. Apparently he is an excellent salesman, because when his friend passed on the model 15, I had to buy it.

I was very impressed with its smooth operation and light trigger.

After reading about the Model 15 on this forum I feel I have made an excellent purchase.

I was hoping that someone could help me determine what year it was made.

Model 15-3
38 Special
Serial number 3K545xx
4" Barrel
Picture attached

Thanks.
Tom

[Gun 4 Fun]

Welcome to the forum!

Your gun dates to 1972. They are excellent guns, and you did well on your purchace.
Your stocks are of the type known as PC (plain clothes) which are identified by the rounded edgs at the bottom, and would be correct on the 10, but yours should have square bottom stocks like these-

[PennTom]

Thanks for the quick response on the year and the info on the stocks. I haven't had a chance to take it to the range yet, but hope to go tomorrow night.

Tom

[S&W-Keeper]

You did great, the model 15"s are excellent revolvers.Most of them that I have seen are tack drivers.

[woftrax]

You will like your 15-3..they are good guns..Here's a photo of mine..it is SN#3k144xx..

[GyMac]

I love the Model 15. I have other guns, but if it's not my favorite, then the Model 14 is.

[PennTom]

Thanks to everyone for your responses and making me feel welcome!

Tom

[Pigirondan]

Originally Posted by woftrax

You will like your 15-3..they are good guns..Here's a photo of mine..it is SN#3k144xx..

I put target grips on mine too.

I'm looking forward to the Classic being released this spring.

[yooperpat]

I have a 4 screw pre-15. This is the most accurate S&W revolver I have ever owned! A real tack driver. You made a great choice. I'm sure you will like it.

[redlevel]

I put PC stocks with a Tyler-t grip on my 15-3. I think that is the ultimate in K-frame .38 special stock setups. I owned a 15 back in the 70s and traded it for something (like a dummy). I found another one (from a member here, I think) a couple of years ago. I would hate to think I would have to be without one again. My 15, along with my M&P, 10-6, 14-4, 19-4, and j-frames, is my favorite.

[LoadedRound]

You have just become the owner of a superb weapon you will likely enjoy the rest of your life.

Congratulations.

[Win712]

Welcome to the Forum. A model 15 is one of the "must have" Smith & Wesson's. I can't see a better place to start you collection, the K-frame Masterpiece revolvers are some of the finest there are. You have a real keeper there congratulations. Greg

[Arizona Commander]

1972 that makes this a 38 year old K38!!!

I just picked up your revolvers cousin a 15-3 sr # 1K465xx.

[bmcgilvray]

Welcome from another happy Model 15 owner. Folks would be less stressed if they all had Model 15s and daily available range time.