Classic Model 14

[MX-5]

Hi, All. I've been away from this group for a while, so I apologize if this subject already was discussed.

I mentioned before that I wanted to get a K frame .38 special as my next handgun, and that I had been visiting the S&W web site regularly to see if they were going to bring back the Model 15. The closest they had to what I was looking for was the Model 10.

I just checked a few minutes ago, and it looks like their bringing out a Classic Model 14, carbon steel, with a 6" barrel. From the photo it looks like it has the lock.

I already have a Model 36 with the 1 7/8" barrel and a couple of semi-automatics (.380 and 9mm), and was hoping to pick up a K frame .38 special as my next handgun. Many years ago, I had a Combat Masterpiece with a barrel length, if I remember correcly, about 4". It was well made and extremely accurate.

From what I've read, the Model 14 was very well regarded, but that 6" barrel is kind of intimidating to me. Just wondering what folks thought about which was more practical for an average person (not concealed or open carry, but just for range use) who is about to add a second S&W .38 special revolver to his collection: Model 10 v. Model 14. Thanks much.

 

[MX-5]

Hi, All. I've been away from this group for a while, so I apologize if this subject already was discussed.

I mentioned before that I wanted to get a K frame .38 special as my next handgun, and that I had been visiting the S&W web site regularly to see if they were going to bring back the Model 15. The closest they had to what I was looking for was the Model 10.

I just checked a few minutes ago, and it looks like their bringing out a Classic Model 14, carbon steel, with a 6" barrel. From the photo it looks like it has the lock.

I already have a Model 36 with the 1 7/8" barrel and a couple of semi-automatics (.380 and 9mm), and was hoping to pick up a K frame .38 special as my next handgun. Many years ago, I had a Combat Masterpiece with a barrel length, if I remember correcly, about 4". It was well made and extremely accurate.

From what I've read, the Model 14 was very well regarded, but that 6" barrel is kind of intimidating to me. Just wondering what folks thought about which was more practical for an average person (not concealed or open carry, but just for range use) who is about to add a second S&W .38 special revolver to his collection: Model 10 v. Model 14. Thanks much.

 

[Willyboy]

I would get the model 14 for range work as it has adjustable sights, or shop for a used model 15 that has adjustable sights with the 4" barrel.I now have a mod 15 that is really accurate and am looking for a model 14 to go with it. I used to think the mod 14 were all over the place but lately I haven't seen any that I really want to buy. I am looking for a pre 19070 LNIB condition.

 

[SmithSwede]

In my opinion, a 6" K 38 is the best handgun ever made.

Don't be intimidated by the 6" barrel. That's probably my favorite length. It gets the most out of the .38 Special, has a generous sight radius, and is very pleasant to shoot.

A 4" is good for most purposes, but I can tell the difference between a 4 and a 6 once the range goes beyond 25 yards.

The only thing I don't like about a 6" is that it is a bit too long to carry concealed. And I've tried.

Since you want this strictly for range use, I'd say the 6" is the way to go.

Having said all that, I'm not keen on the new guns from S&W. If I were you, I would look for a usesd, older model K 38. They are not hard to find, and runs about $400 to $500 in nice condition around where I live.

 

[SEG]

I really like my 4"ers, they just feel right to me. On the other hand the 6" do seem to produce a little better groups at a distance as Swede mention. BOth balance very well and are a pleasure to shoot.
I'm leaning towards the M14 w/6" barrel for long days at the range.

 

[shawn mccarver]

Originally posted by SmithSwede:


The only thing I don't like about a 6" is that it is a bit too long to carry concealed. And I've tried.

QUOTE]

I agree. The K38 is the most shootable gun in the line, but difficult to conceal in 6 inch guise. The LAPD detectives who carried them that way, often in cross draw holsters under sport coats, did not really have to be concerned with "concealment" versus plain "cover" in the same way a private citizen must be concerned. I was hoping when and if they brought out the K38 in the classic line they would make it also in 4 and 5 inch barrels with Baughman ramp front sights.

 

[Andyd]

The older M 14s seem to have all a great trigger, too. The few M15s that I owned or handled were not that nice.
It is not just the sight radius but stocks and trigger as well that let the shooter use the accuracy potential of a gun.

 

[Munsterf18]

It looks like it's nice gun on the website. Did you notice it will also be available in nickel?

For target shooting the model 14 is one of the best. Now that might be a new gun worth having and handing down to the kids!

Munster