Model 14-3

[linde]

Very few were made with 4 inch barrels, which is why a letter from S&W to verify would be required unless the original box was available.

In fact there were a few made with a 4 inch (heavy) barrel in the 1971 period. The barrel and rib are a Model 14 profile and distinctly different than the Dayton guns.

Here is a 14-3 s/n 1K32110 with Roy's letter confirming it is a factory special order. The barrel comparison pictures show the Model 14 profile on the left and the Dayton profile on the right.

Russ

edit to add:
here's an earlier discussion of this Model 14-3 4" example:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...ed-barrel-lengths.html?highlight=heavy*barrel

and here's one on special barrel length Model 14s in general:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...-14-4-inch-barrel.html?highlight=heavy*barrel

 

[Art Doc]

I think the most likely explanation is that the frame is marked 14 when it should have been stamped 15. A fairly common mistake with so many models built on the same frame.

 

[linde]

Hello:
I have a chance to bid on a 14-3, s/n 1K406xx . . . Haven't examined it in detail yet. Can you tell me about when it was made and what a price might be to offer? . . .

I hesitate to suggest an offer price pending your examination in detail . . . but would suggest paying particular attention to the originality of the finish. It might be the lighting but looking at picture 3 in post #13 and pictures 1 & 2 in post #15 raises questions in my mind.

If you're considering it for a shooter (with a corresponding price) I would highly recommend it . . . the 4" and 5" heavy barrel 14s are a true pleasure to shoot . . . shucks, the 6" is even pretty good

Good luck, Russ

 

[stansdds]

Art Doc has a point, it could actually be a mis-marked Model 15. There are numerous examples of S&W revolvers with incorrect model number stamps. I think a letter is going to be the only way to know the truth.

 

[civil1977]

It is not a mismarked Model 15 since the barrel profile is distinctly Model 14. The Model 15 has a tapered barrel.

 

[vinnyd34]

linde:
My gun looks to be the "spittin' image" of your gun in post 21, first thumb-nail. The finish on my gun seems original, and it's a beautiful blue. My plan would be to shoot it as it has already been shot. Also, the owner doesn't want it so I was going to offer $400 for it which is about right for a standard 14 in "good" condition according to Gun Digest. But, if it's worth much more because of rarity, to be honest, I'd tell the owner. I want a shooter so I would pass on spending any more money than that.

Also, I want to thank all those who offered me help and understanding. Learned a lot!