14-3 With Some Unusual Features

[Retired W4]

I just acquired this K38 from ~1972 (3K7505) that has the SN stamped on the barrel flat. It's my understanding that this was deleted, along with the # on the rear of the cylinder after ~1960, but for a few reasons, as enumerated by Hondo44, the SN does appear in those locations on into the 1960's and possibly beyond. Another feature is the standard width trigger is not serrated. The case colors indicate to me this was NOT done after it left the factory.

Another thing the gun has is the hammer stud, inside the frame, has 11 punch marks around the perimeter of the stud which makes me think the stud had a fitment problem at the factory and the punch was used to better secure it to the frame. There are no rework marks, so over all it looks like the factory saw a problem and continued massaging it until it pasted final inspection.

It also has the red square on the rear of the Patridge sight, but that is not unusual for target guns of this vintage.

I will post pictures of this high condition K38 a little later (after I put it back together) but for now I will invite any comments on the barrel flat SN and this hammer stud..

 

[22hipower]

On the newer ones (such as your 1972) where SNs have appeared on barrel flats I've also usually found <> along with the SN suggesting, I think, a barrel change. Had a M34 with the SN on the barrel and a return date stamp on the butt which was only a year or so after the gun was shipped. A deep dive request might uncover some service order work but that seems unlikely if there are no service department stamps anywhere on the gun.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

 

[Retired W4]

Yes, no diamond or 5 pointed star on the barrel, or any where else, so possibly a barrel change before it shipped (??). It's back together now but I still have to wipe off the oil from my oily hands. Pictures soon.

 

[Retired W4]

OK, a few picks. Proud pin on the front sight, non-serrated semi-target trigger and some wild target stocks (stainless stock circle insert). I'm betting this thing is VERY accurate. I think I will letter this one just for grins.

 

[GerSan69]

Very nice. I've always heard that trigger referred to as a 'combat' trigger. Not so?

 

[Retired W4]

Very nice. I've always heard that trigger referred to as a 'combat' trigger. Not so?

I believe you are correct. I guess I will have to spring for a letter to find out it's original configuration. If anyone is interested, I got it for $600.

 

[Nightowl]

I don't believe that trigger was available when your K38 was made, so may have been replaced when the red sight was installed.

I have a model 29 from 1968 that has the serial number in the barrel. I seem to recall discussion that it might have been kept in house for a rework before shipment due to some issue. I know some rework guns had a small R stamped on the barrel when rework was needed before shipment.