Model 10 vs. 14

SpecRacer

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Looking to have fun at the range with some nostalgia revolvers, for targets and plinking. I love the look and feel of the pencil barreled 6 inch Model 10s, but will I be disappointed for not getting the adjustable sights of the Model 14? Any help with the decision would be appreciated. I do reload and no, I do not have the money right now to buy both. lol. The really nice ones seem to be $600 for the 10 and $700 for the 14 on Gunbroker. Do I really need a high quality one or is just a shooter ok? PS I really do like a high quality blue job.
 
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My recommendation is a Model 14-2. I love mine and it one of The slickest guns I've ever owned.
 
Six inch M-10s are hard to find so if that's your favorite and you can get a really nice one for $600 I say buy it. The K-38 is a little better for bulls eye shooting but both guns should be equally accurate and I see the 6" M-10 being worth more money in the future because of its rarity.
 
Don't limit yourself to the Models 10 and 14.

Also consider the Model 19.

If it doesn't absolutely have to be a
6-inch barrel, also consider the Model
15.

With more choices, you might be surprised
at what you happen upon and what the
prices might be.
 
I have both a 14-4 and a couple of 10-8s (4"). For me, as far as sight picture, the Model 10 rear sight is almost as good as the Model 14. The 10 has a pure combat sight. The advantage is the 10's rear sight doesn't get caught on holsters, stays in place, and is almost indestructible. Most Model 10s are regulated to a police load and are inherently very accurate.

That said, the Model 14 is a superb mass produced target revolver. Great balance and SA trigger. Mine is easily the most accurate revolver I have.

Since 6" Model 10s are less common than Model 14s, I guess your choice depends on whether you want something a bit different to shoot at the range or not. Personally I'd buy the M14 just for the quality. Later I'd look for a M10 or Victory.
 
Indoor or outdoor range? At typical indoor range distances you probably won't appreciate much difference in accuracy between the two. If you're planning to start shooting competitively you might want to consider the 14 for the ability to zero the sights. Sounds like you're set on a 6", and that's fine, but I'm with Uncle Ed on at least considering a Model 15. Not talking about you specifically, but the 4" Combat Masterpiece is way more accurate than most of the people shooting it. Heck, my 2" 15 thinks it's a target pistol. Good shootin',
Doug
 
You'll be happier with adjustable sights.

Not only can they be adjusted, they are vastly superior to fixed sights in that they are much more visible. They aren't fragile.
 
Yikes

Thanks for all your help. I think I should go for the Model 14. But, where do you guys find these $600 guns? A Model 10-4 is now up to $960 with shipping on GB. Looks like I am going to be looking for a Taurus 82B4! LOL
 
My opinion is that a lot of sellers try to get top dollar on auction sites. I prefer to see and look over what I'm buying.

Try an ol' fashioned brick and mortar gun shop. Depending on where you live you may find that with a lot of people buying small concealable semi autos and high capacity polymer pistols that an old S&W K frame sits in the case for a while or is priced right. I've been in gun shops when someone brought in a 4" or 6" K frame and the shop owner wouldn't even make an offer because it wasn't a small polymer pistol. I understand that shops have to turn over inventory, but . . .

Also, you can search through the for sale sub forum of this website. Sometimes there are nice K frames. You just may have to search a bit.
 
Not too long ago I got a Model
14 with presentation box at a
GB site for $550.

The box was a Smith box I'd never
seem before and I don't think it was
originally with the gun but it fit
into perfectly. Instead of the usually
blued fuzzy "cardboard" inserts this
box's inserts are leather/plastic like and
much more durable.
 
I bought this Model 14-4 just as you see it for $140:

jp-ak-albums-k-frame-target-revolvers-picture8336-model-14-4-nib-box.jpg


. . . . . . of course, that was 36 years ago! :D
 
Really, SpecRacer, you should get a K-38 Masterpiece Model 14. You won't regret it.

If you want to try a few out, come on over to my place and you can take your pick. Here are a few of those that live in my safe.

jp-ak-albums-k-frame-target-revolvers-picture10764-top-bottom-k-38-masterpiece-1956-model-14-2-1967-model-14-3-1971-model-14-3-sao-1973-model-14-3-sao-2t-1973-model-14-4-1977-model-14-4-1980-a.jpg
 
Granted, I have owned it for going on 4 years, but this 14-3 was mine shipped & insured for $410. Was a G.B. purchase. Be patient "Grasshopper"! Normally you have to be. Bob
 

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Thank you all for you great advice.

I think I got lucky and got a Model 10 for $400. I reload and have plenty of 158s and Unique. I am sure I will eventually want a 14, but for now, at 71, I think I will enjoy the nostalgia.
 

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