Model 15 4" Barrel Patridge Sight???

[SFIDEC]

Been watching this 15-3 (SN: 5K36XXX) on GB and finally gave in today and did a "Buy Now". Now...Question is...what did I actually now buy? Target hammer, trigger, and grips have always been my favorite combo and having the 4" barrel with patridge front sight just pushed me into this purchase. Guessing this is someone's handiwork but would like to hear thoughts and opinions.
Thanks in advance for comments.
Ray

 

[bigggbbruce]

Nothing original there.. hope it was reasonably priced..

 

[colt_saa]

It sounds all original to me with the exception of the Patridge sight and possibly the target stocks

But so what? If you like it and felt it was a reasonable price for what you were buying why does it matter if the factory shipped it that way or some gunsmith changed it out

 

[bmcgilvray]

It's kinda cool looking in a different sort of way. I'd have to get used to looking at it. I always enjoy using the Patridge front sight on my Smith & Wesson revolvers so equipped.

The "not period correct" stocks are well worthwhile from a value standpoint. Unless the price was exorbitant you aren't likely hurt. Model 15s are always appropriate.

 

[bigggbbruce]

.......................

 

[bigggbbruce]

OP
Such things have been made. They are not all that common. It took a factory letter to prove that my 4 inch K22 was built this way.

Built what way...

K22 compared to a Combat Masterpiece..

 

[kscharlie]

I like it. Doesn't matter a whit if the Patridge came from the factory or if it was done later. Whoever did it, they did a nice job. If you wish to spend a few more bucks, you can always request a letter to find out for sure. It would have been a very simple matter for the original owner to special order a 15 with the Patridge front sight.

As for the stocks, they too could be original to the gun. The diamond center was ordered removed in 1968. The 15-3 began production in 1967. Regardless of when the gun was shipped, those stocks could have been on it when it left the factory.

 

[Waveski]

I wonder if the trigger is original. I just had a target trigger installed in a 15 ; you won't have to go to that trouble.

I like your new gun in all it's details. If you are really anxious to divulge the cost , you may. ( I snooped on Gunbroker but could not find it ...)

 

[4barrel]

I gave $550 for mine. Your grips are worth $150 if they look good. I had rather have yours than a new one if the timing is on.

 

[SFIDEC]

I wonder if the trigger is original. I just had a target trigger installed in a 15 ; you won't have to go to that trouble.

I like your new gun in all it's details. If you are really anxious to divulge the cost , you may. ( I snooped on Gunbroker but could not find it ...)

____________________________________________________
Here is GB Auction link (Got it for $515 plus $25 shipping) Thinking serial number puts it dated around 1973. I considered value of diamond target grips when purchasing and plan to put them on period correct Model 14 or 17.
Smith & Wesson 15-3, TH, TT, Patridge Sight - Revolvers at GunBroker.com : 826252608

 

[Waveski]

Thank you. If I'm in your shoes right now ... I'm pretty comfortable.

 

[Babysitr]

I'd slam the computer lid down grab some .38 reloads and head out the door.....I shoot mine!

 

[Art Doc]

I suspect it was a 6" K38 cut down.

 

[texmex]

Doesn't look cut down to me. Smith & Wesson looks centered on the barrel. It could have been ordered like this although the grips have been changed. Bet it shoots great also.

 

[Dvus]

I suspect it was a 6" K38 cut down.

Barrel was not cut down or the print on the barrel would be off center and ending at the muzzle. A special order possibly or a good front sight replacement. Sell the diamonds and get a letter.

 

[Art Doc]

Barrel was not cut down or the print on the barrel would be off center and ending at the muzzle. A special order possibly or a good front sight replacement. Sell the diamonds and get a letter.

OK, then I suspect the ramp was replaced by the Patridge. I have not held this revolver in my hands, I have only seen a couple photos. I think TT & TH added. Any modifications make me suspicious of everything else out of the ordinary. If the owner truly believes this was a special order in this configuration then a letter is in order to confirm it.

 

[ken158]

That is a factory 4" model 15 but the front sight is not a factory sight.

 

[SFIDEC]

OK, then I suspect the ramp was replaced by the Patridge. I have not held this revolver in my hands, I have only seen a couple photos. I think TT & TH added. Any modifications make me suspicious of everything else out of the ordinary. If the owner truly believes this was a special order in this configuration then a letter is in order to confirm it.

_____________________________________________________
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Art Doc. When I get this baby in my hands and inspect it, I plan to take some closeup pictures and post on Forum for further evaluation. As you mentioned...I also highly suspect alterations have been made. The combination this Model 15-3 currently has really appeals to me regardless of its originality. Sure hope it meets my expectations by hitting intended target center.
Thanks again,
Ray

 

[jtcarm]

I suspect it was a 6" K38 cut down.

Nope, the barrel's tapered.

Besides it would be stamped Model 14.

 

[usmc2427765]

I like that revolver. Always been partial to target front sights and it really looks good on a 4" bbl. I have always been more concerned with who carried the revolver, rather than if it is all original. If this one shoots to your level of satisfaction, that's all that counts. If not, let me know, we maybe able to make a deal.