K-38 Masterpiece SN# range (not an ID request)

[Baker6x6]

I/We have a K22 SN# K402XXX- which turns out to be 1960 (my vintage also ). When Dad got the SN for me- he didn't note if it was stamped a Model 17-4 or not. I'm not sure at what SN# they started that. It has the 6" Barrel.

I want to FIND (and eventually purchase) a K38 of the same vintage. It MUST be an identical gun (visually)- except for caliber (sisters... if you will). My goal is to make a "set" of shooters. I can't afford.. and don't really want any safe-queens, but the box and accessories would be nice (need not match SN) repops OK.

I have finally figured out I need to look for a Model 14-4, .. but I'm looking for the serial number range for this model from 1957-ish to 1961. I do not know what the "change" in '57/'58 is... or the changes again in 1960-61...
I do not know exactly what would be "different" from "our" K22.

I don't have the K22 here to photograph (in dad's safe), or examine .. so it's hard to get a handle on just how "new or old" I can go.. and still have "matching" Smiths...

I'm eager to start "shopping".. and would like to find the "right" gun.

If I can get a SN# list for each year they made the "matching" guns... that would be great.

 

[mikepriwer]

Try to find one close in serial number to your K22. The .22's, .32's
and .38's , in the K-frame series, are all serial-numbered together.

There will be lots of differences. The firing pin is frame-mounted,
instead of hammer-mounted, for the .22 caliber guns.So the hammer
and frame will be different. Also, the extractor is different, because
of the caliber difference. And the height of the front sight will be
very different, between .22 and .38 caliber.

Engineering changes should be comon across all three calibers, for
very close serial numbers. And the dash numbers should correspond,
as well. They represent engineering changes.

Later, Mike Priwer

 

[rimfired]

1960 serial range for all K frames is K386805- K429894 if that is what you are asking.

The 14-4 change was begun in 1977. I think you are looking for a 14-1 (1959) or a 14-2 (1961).

 

[wheelgun610]

1960 serial range for all K frames is K386805- K429894....
.... I think you are looking for a 14-1 (1959) or a 14-2 (1961).

The bad news is that of all variations of K-38's, the 14-1 is probably the most difficult to find....

Mark