15-3 question

I have Never seen a model 15 with that barrel. IMO it is a model 10 heavy barrel swapped onto a 15 frame. I bought a shooter grade 15-3 from a local gun show in 2019 for 375. The one that sold last week in the classifieds for ~700 was beautiful, WAY better value than purchasing and restoring the one posted. That being said, a heavy barrel model 15 / model 10 with adjustable sights (whatever it is) sounds cool to me, especially if the mechanics are solid and the action smooth as glass
 
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I bought a 15-3 (born in '73) about two years ago in much nicer condition than that one for $450 with original number-matching magnas but nothing else. It was from a Forum member. FWIW, last month I got a post war .38 spl. M&P also with original stocks, born around '48-'49 (some call it Pre model 10) for $400 in very good shape. I would look around a little more if I were you, Frozen Minnesotan. Good luck! They made like thousands of these guns so it shouldn't take you long to find something nicer & less expensive. If that's a replacement barrel, I'm not sure I would buy it. The pic, the way it is, could be an optical illusion. Heck, there's a Want to Buy section here, and you can probably trust us more!
 
Hi Frozen. Gun prices have climbed a LOT in the last few months. What used to be a $400 gun is sometimes going for twice that now. I guess the word hasn't reached everyone... no matter.
Too bad you don't have more photos. It's hard to make an honest assessment from just one. Knowing the vintage, the condition of the bore, making sure it functions properly, etc., are just as important as looks. Could be this is one that was carried a lot but shot very little - if that's the case, this one could very well be worth $600.
You're on the right track. Always try to talk them down! Even $50 less would get you a great shooter, as long as those mechanical points check out. And by the way, the Model 10 is OK, but the 15 is a better choice. Good luck, I hope it works out in your favor.
 
The S&W M15 / Combat Masterpiece was a very common revolver and there are always good examples to be found. There are also "beaters", average condition versions and new in box examples to be had.

My personal way would be to get the best condition example as I could find for what I'd be willing to pay. I usually prefer buying a classic revolver with all of its original box, paperwork, tool kit, etc. if feasible. I have been told by friends in the past I over paid by $75 or $100 but 10 years later look like a hero since the $300 gun is now worth more than 3 times that amount.

I'm not suggesting someone should throw hard earned money away but to me buying a better copy has always worked for me. Not saying the one you are looking at is not a good buy, but check it out carefully and see how good your haggling skills are. Personally and from what I can see in your picture, I'd not purchase that one-you can do much better imho. By the time you refinish it, do parts replacement, get original grips and accoutrements, you will be way out of the ball park for what you can just get a much better example for and has not been refinished or repaired.
 
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jeffrefrig said:
I bought a 15-3 (born in '73) about two years ago in much nicer condition than that one for $450 with original number-matching magnas but nothing else. It was from a Forum member. FWIW, last month I got a post war .38 spl. M&P also with original stocks, born around '48-'49 (some call it Pre model 10) for $400 in very good shape. I would look around a little more if I were you, Frozen Minnesotan. Good luck! They made like thousands of these guns so it shouldn't take you long to find something nicer & less expensive. If that's a replacement barrel, I'm not sure I would buy it. The pic, the way it is, could be an optical illusion. Heck, there's a Want to Buy section here, and you can probably trust us more!
Click to expand...

Welcome to the forum From RI.

Personally, I would not consider either of your potential selections. Hunting for a gun for the right price and condition is part of the fun. Of the 2 models you are considering, IMHO the M15 is by far the most desirable piece. It is one of S&W's finest efforts. Also, the model 67 is the stainless version of the M15.

I would read the rules, and then place an ad in the WTB section of this forum. The vast majority of mine come from here. Also, if the m15 you are looking at has had a barrel change, it needs to be looked at for barrel/cylinder gap, and rear cylinder gage too. If you do not know how to thoroughly inspect a modified gun, I would walk away. Also, who is to say that the internals have not been messed with.

You have come to the right place for info and help, and to find a great piece that you will be proud to own. I suggest you consider walking away from the M10 and 15, and look for a finer example here. Millions of these guns were produced, so they are not scarce by any means
 
Regarding barrels:

The Model 15 and 67 had tapered
or what I call sculpted barrels during
most of their production.

However, by 1988 Smith issued the
Model 15-6 which had a heavier
barrel, ala like the Model 14. It's
not a "Dayton Model" but the
concept is the same.

The picture of the Model 15 supplied
indicated to me it's merely a Model
10 HB screwed into the frame of a
Model 15. And the front sight is way
too low, thus making the adjustable
sight usage possibly nil to not at all.
In a word, the Model 15 shown is
"junk."

Given the nature of the Model 15, I
wouldn't trust the dealer and his
Model 10 standard barrel either
even as a "shooter."
 
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Is the revolver in question actually stamped 15-3? The barrel does look like a model 10 HB but I don't see a barrel pin. Like wise the S&W logo is on the left side of the frame. Both features that indicate a later model, like a 15-5. Something unclean is going on here.
 
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Sometimes the Blued finish on S&W Revolvers take on a Plum Colored finish as they age. It's nothing to concern yourself with. I have several that have turned a little Plum Color. GOOD Luck !
 
Frozen in Minnesota said:
A local shop has this 15-3 4" listed for $600. Is this a decent price? I plan on changing grips back to factory style. Has the letters "or co ca" stamped below the cylinder. I might even get it restored. Local guy does bluing and internals for just over 200. I've been wanting to start collecting old s&w revolvers. Good first candidate?
Click to expand...

For future reference the absolute worst thing you can do regarding a guns value if even modestly collectible is refinish it.
With collectible guns let's say you find a gun valued at $700. Then you refinish it at that $ 200 cost- it will then be worth $600.
Also competent revolver gunsmiths are rare anymore, and unless someone already has a rock solid reputation with revolvers specifically would not give a revolver to a local gunsmith to tinker on.
Even very finish worn guns all original will be worth more than a refinished gun
 
I think cotis is right. My 15, and another at a small rural shop, should be tapered. Way, too much finish wear for that price.
 
That 19 looks straight and if the inside is as good I'm sure you'll be happier than you would have after putting $800 into that 15.
 
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