Why did Smith & Wesson never make a model 614

Hannibal Barca · Oct 11, 2011

Why did Smith & Wesson never make a model 614. I mean the stainless steel version of the classic model 14. I know on these days S&W offer a model 14 in their classics revivals, but they were not a normal production on the last decades.
I never understand neither why they stopped the production of the model 14. Or a new model 614 if they didn’t want to do blue steel revolvers anymore.

Hannibal

Ashlander · Oct 11, 2011

I imagine they looked at the demand for long barreled handguns and decided let's devote that production capacity to something that's a better seller. I just cannot imagine all that much demand for guns chambered in 38 Special with barrels longer than 4 inches -- especially in an age of concealed carry.

GyMac · Oct 11, 2011

Plus, in its role as a target gun (not its only role), it would not be subjected to that much abuse.

47D · Oct 11, 2011

Ashlander said:
I imagine they looked at the demand for long barreled handguns and decided let's devote that production capacity to something that's a better seller. I just cannot imagine all that much demand for guns chambered in 38 Special with barrels longer than 4 inches -- especially in an age of concealed carry.

^ This.

I'm guessing between the 66, 67, 68, 620, and 686 most would-be 614 buyers were pretty much covered.

Steve in Vermont · Oct 11, 2011

I bought a 67 since it was the closest thing to my first carry gun in the 60's. And since I reload .38's it works for me. I already have two .357s and don't need another. I think Ashlander has it covered, other than people like me it's not the most popular caliber/gun on the block.

fyimo · Oct 11, 2011

I think most of the answers have covered the question with other stainless models currently covering the need with shorter barrels. I also think the Model 14's day in the sun was many decades ago when it was used in competition. That said the Model 14 was one of S&W best revolvers but today shorter barrels rule demand and so do automatics in most competition shooting.

The Model 14 and the Model 15 with 4 inch barrel are still favorites of mine but then I'm just a little old school.

VaRecon · Oct 11, 2011

The model 66 is plenty reason enough for me not to be interested in a 614 if it existed.
Seeing as how it's a k-frame, mine gets a steady diet of 38 with longevity in mind.
I have my N frame for magnum use.

target tech · Oct 11, 2011

This is my sort of "target" model 66, that S&W never made. I had the red ramp shaved off and a pinned partridge sight installed. Since it is stainless, I can use lead cloth in the cylinder to keep the .38 ring scrubbed down. Since I don't have a 14, this is my paper puncher with 148gr WC. Even shooting .38s in a .357, she'll still leave a ragged 2" hole in the cented of a target at 25 yarrds off hand.

Black_Talon · Oct 11, 2011

The Model 68 was a 38 Spl version of the Model 66 and was made for the CHP. It looked virtually identical to a Model 14, except for the covered ejector rod and the ramp front sight.

Hannibal Barca · Oct 19, 2011

Black_Talon said:
The Model 68 was a 38 Spl version of the Model 66 and was made for the CHP. It looked virtually identical to a Model 14, except for the covered ejector rod and the ramp front sight.

Yes, the model 68 woulbe be some kind of model 614. The only problem is that is difficult find one.

birxak · Dec 23, 2011

S&W 614

About the SS 614 I have a revolver that is a S&W that has the number 614 stamped in the cylinder hinge when you open it up. it has a 2 1/4" barrel is this not a model 614? It is a 5 shot 357 mag.

Why did Smith & Wesson never make a model 614

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