New member needs help

[makkie]

I am a new member,a military vet and an avid shooting fan.
I inherited a smith and wesson revolver from my father but have no info on it.Inside the yoke when the cylinder is open their are the numbers Q9 and then underneath that 396 68.Also under the barrel is stamped K then 92913.It is a 6 inch barrel blued .38 swing out cylinder hand eject.I am not sure if that is enough info to help identify it,but any assistance would be appreciated.It has some blueing wear but shoots beautifully,very accurate.Also can I shoot +P rounds in this?
If needed I can search for more identifying information or upload some pictures.
Thanks in advance.
Tons of good information here!

 

[29aholic]

Welcome to the forum

Your gun would be a Pre-Model 14 K38 Masterpiece from I would guess early/mid 50's. They are sometimes referred to as a Target Masterpiece. The K92913 is the serial number...good guns and about as accurate as you will ever find.

 

[woad_yurt]

You got a good one there. In layman's terms, that "K" in the serial number means "really nice revolver."

 

[deanodog]

We love pictures.

 

[murphydog]

It looks to have been shipped in 1950. It should be fine for +P ammo. Enjoy!

 

[larryofcc]

I would never even think of running +P thru a 1950 vintage K38.
Just like not running many 357 rounds thru a M19. It will loosen the gun prematurely. It was not built for that kind of beating. Big Larry

 

[makkie]

Thank you all for the fast and informative responses.by the way Big larry,I am in Saint George,just south of you. I was kind of shocked to see a response from someone in Cedar City!