Model 15's

[TheOldPro]

Ok fellows, y'all are the experts.
What do you think are the best years of the 15's.
I luv 'em. Want another. Need input.
Thanks. Stay safe.

 

[153]

Not an “expert” but would only consider buying one of the pinned barrel examples - just a personal preference.

 

[robertrwalsh]

I agree with 153.

 

[DWalt]

Best years for what? For shooting purposes, at every age they are all much the same. For collectors and investors, obviously the earlier pre-model examples (in high condition) would be preferred only because they are what collectors like. The presence or absence of a pinned barrel is immaterial to the revolver's function.

 

[mh51]

Personally, I would only buy a Combat Masterpiece (pre-Model 15). They are an example of the days when skilled craftsmen did the final fitting and assembly, and that just adds to my appreciation of it.

 

[Aircrewman]

DWalt has answered the question very well. In my opinion, all years that the Model 15 was produced are rather exceptional. They have been the best holster sidearm in .38 special ever produced. The craftsmanship is evident in all years of production. I have a a 1950 production example up to the 15-7 Heavy barrel 4". I have found the model to be consistent in workmanship and fit in the 10 I own, which cover most years of production.

I believe that Smith and Wesson hit the proverbial home run with this model as far as a perfect example of an all purpose .38 special caliber revolver that can do most things that the average owner, be he/she a civilian, Police Officer, Security Officer or anyone who needs or wants to have a sidearm that is easy to use and carry.

 

[Doc44]

Model 15-3 shipped in December 1969 with elephant ivories by Don Collins. One of my favorites to shoot. Click on the photo for a better look.

Bill

 

[CH4]

I only have two 15s, a -4 and -2. Both are very will put together and exude class.

 

[H Richard]

K Frame .38's with adjustable sights (aka Mod 15 & 14) are the backbone of S&W's rich history over many years, beginning 100 years ago. They all shoot well.

 

[Roberto Renauld]

K Frame .38's with adjustable sights (aka Mod 15 & 14) are the backbone of S&W's rich history over many years, beginning 100 years ago. They all shoot well.

AWESOME collection!!!!, for me one of the best S&W revolvers ever built, and my most loved revolver caliber of all times, the .38 Special, these revolvers in special the Model 15 and 14 show a very neat craftmanship!!!..... and are awesome accurate to shoot!!! Thanks for sharing your collection pictures!!

 

[Engine49guy]

They were all good for different reasons.

I like the old 4 and 5 screw ones for collect ability,
The 15-5 changed to a wide rib barrel so they are just like the small batch of 4" Model 14-3's made sans barrel pin.

On a side note it has always nagged at my craw that the snub version was designated as a Model 15 when it is actually more of a snub Model 14 in both barrel rib and frame style .

If you enjoy the Combat Masterpiece here is a thread link to its informal evolution,
Some Combat Masterpiece eye candy

 

[Narragansett]

The Model 15 is one of S&W's best efforts They are all great

The olive grip with the 4" bbl is a 15-2

The one with the osage orange combats is a 15-3

The picture of 3 from the top down is a 1950 K38, a 15-3 4", and a 15-3 2".

The 6" 1972 15-3 has been slightly modified.