A nice 15-3

[Rodan]

Stumbled across this very nice 15-3 in a local shop today, and brought it home. I've been watching for a nice M15 for a while, but most are "well-used" at best. This one appears unfired, though I do wonder if it may be a factory re-finish. Stocks are numbered to the gun, and the s/n dates to ~1970.

I am curious about the circled "RE" stamp on the left side of the frame. I have seen R-S, R-B, R-N for factory refinished guns, but I've not seen "RE", and a search didn't provide answers... any opinions?

 

[CH4]

A beautiful classic

 

[Rudi]

A really nice revolver!

 

[Aukula1062]

That is a very impressive acquisition!

 

[xfarfuldog]

There's just something about a model 15. I have been leering at them a long time. Last OGCA show I finally picked up a 2" model 15 and it is new in it's original box serial numbered to the gun. Lucky me!

 

[TJm15.38]

Congratulations! That is a most handsome revolver for sure.

 

[OutAtTheEdge]

According to this thread,
https://smith-wessonforum.com/140319079-post25.html, "An RE (refinish) in a circle has also been observed as one of the last stampings used."

 

[BKLooney]

Very nice indeed!

 

[jmiles1960]

Would an "RE" (refinish) mark indicate the gun was sent back by the customer to S&W or refinished before initially leaving the factory? Such as being refinished as part of a Quality Control check? Just curious to learn. Thanks

 

[Rodan]

Thank you OutAtTheEdge for digging that up. I had found several threads discussing the various stamps, but none that I found mentioned the 'RE' in circle stamp.

The finish on this M15 is every bit as good as it would have been leaving the factory the first time, and without the stamp, you'd believe it was unfired. Not that it matters, as all my guns are shooters. Looking forward to getting this one to the range!