1969 Model 15-3

[Thiokol]

I had been on a hunt for a really nice 15-3 and thanks to forum member 0132, I am now the proud owner of this one. He described it as having been handled/fired very little, if at all. He wasn't lying. This thing is about as close to perfect as a 51 year old revolver can be.

 

[EricR]

Congratulations, it looks to be just like you describe, perfect. Are ya gonna shoot it?

 

[Thiokol]

Congratulations, it looks to be just like you describe, perfect. Are ya gonna shoot it?

I probably will. It didn't come with the box, paperwork, tool kit, etc so I guess that it's not a true collectible.

 

[JP@AK]

I would shoot it, too. You will greatly enjoy doing so.

I don't, however, agree with this:

It didn't come with the box, paperwork, tool kit, etc so I guess that it's not a true collectible.

A S&W revolver is collectible or not, based on its condition, and sometimes other factors (like rarity). The box, papers and tools are great additions, but their absence does not keep a 98% gun (or better) from being collectible. I'd have to dismiss a large part of my collection, if that were the case.

 

[OutWest50]

Congratulations! They cannot get any better or more pristine than that gun! A great specimen of S&W quality.

 

[stansdds]

The lack of box, papers, etc. decreases its value, but does not automatically render a firearm non-collectible. Collector value is determined by condition, originality and scarcity; box, papers, and factory accessories add to any collector value.

 

[ZGrand]

Very nice.

I just recently bought an unfired-since-factory model 15-4. After two months of looking locally, I finally found one box of 38 Special ammo yesterday. I plan to shoot it next range trip.

 

[pharmer]

This one is from the same time frame (K992XXX), goes with me almost every range trip. It has had some work done to it in the past and the ejector rod shows a lot of wear. Made to be shot and .38 spl is my favorite revolver caliber. Joe