Today I shot a local club competition in the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF) Centrefire Match. I think it's similar to some forms of Bullseye. This is a match shot one handed with 30 shots x in the precision section (i.e. 5 shots in 5 minutes) and then 30 shots in the dueling section (five shots with one shot per 3 second facing of the target. 7 second gap between each presentation. Targets are set up at 25 meters. I shot this with my 4" barrel 66 with standard factor trigger. All shots were done in Single Action. I did poorly.

I'm thinking I need to set up a dedicated revolver that has had a trigger job or maybe set to single action only. I'm thinking of getting an older model 14 (without the underlug). I like the idea of being able to use the gun in both double or single action. However, I might perform better just shooting a single action only Model 14. Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

I've read that S&W did make single action only Model 14's. Is there any way you can tell a factory SAO from one where a gunsmith has just converted the model 14 to SAO?

Most of the top ranking shooters us European .32 tack drivers. I'd rather stick it out with a revolver so I'm not bending down all day picking up spent cases.

Thanks.

Simpsons Ltd usually has a dew model 14's that have been converted to double action only and a lot of european countries use them in CF pistol matches. Now having said that since you are in Australia would for you to get one from here and get it over there. Surle some gunsmith in Australia could convert your model 14 from SA to DA. Maybe call to S&W to find out what parts are needed to have a DA action only revolver only or they could possibly suggest a smith that can do the job for you. Frank

Yes, I've shot Int'l CF matches with S&W revolvers. A standard model 14 (6") or 15 (4") is fine. No need for trigger jobs at all. No need for a SAO version, either.
Don't overlook the 15! The shorter barrel is a huge asset when shooting the dueling stage! That's where people blow it!
You want to come up from the 45degree position and have your sight picture. It's easy to waste time trying to find the front sight with the longer barrel.
In fact, besides the 14 and 15, the model 19 makes an excellent revolver for CF. In fact, I've used a 4" model 19 quite a bit.

To get more competitive with the guys shooting Pardini or Walther 32 S&W wc semiautos, you might want to invest in a nice orthopedic grip such as by Rink or Nill. That would be money better spent than the premium on a single action K-38.

Best Regards,
Jim

These are Morini "non" adjustable grips on a Model 14. No need looking for a SAO version.
This style grip is for International shooting.

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"That would be money better spent than the premium on a single action K-38."

I must agree with Jim ("6string")-----the .38 Combat Masterpiece was a winner for me too, and I have a new in the box single action K-38 coming up for sale soon.

Ralph Tremaine

Boy,does your post remember me great memories.They say ''long story short'' but in this case I'll keep the ''long''version.
Started shooting ISU(25 meters single hand 1/2 slow fire 1/2 rapid fire).Started with a model 66 4''.Scores in the low 400(60 shots for a possible of 600).
Bought a model 52 that I sold after 2 competitions(being a reloader,I had my focus more on the empty brass being thrown away than on the front sight).Sold it and bought a model 14.Put a Morini grip that I fine tuned to my hand and after having a couple instructors to teach me not to look at the lady that was acting as RO but at my front sight,I managed to get in the 540 to 550 area.
To answer your question,yes the model 14 can bring you to a very good level.BTW,I only polished and lightened the action a tiny bit so as to bring it 3oz above the minimal norm(old ISU standards)and the gun still retains its full DA capacity.I can't see how making the gun a SA only could improve upon the gun if it is kept under the limitations imposed of the regulations.Once you'll have learned at what point the trigger breaks,one or two onces won't make the difference.
At that point,shooting is more than 85% mental,not depending on the instrument.

Thanks for the above feedback. Yes, I have invested in a Target grip. I really think the thing that killed me the other day was the heavy single action trigger and me jerking the gun. All my fault and not the guns. As they say, it's a bad trademens (Contractor / Carpenter) who blames his Tools for his bad work.

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