New member with a Pre-model 15 K38

[RIrunner]

Hello from Rhode Island.
Just moved up to 38 caliber with a K38 Combat Masterpiece, pre-model 15 made in 1957. The S&W historian told me based on my answers to his questions. There's no model number on the frame but there is the machinist's initial.

I intend to shoot targets with HBWC loads as the experts have suggested. For home defense this firearm should be ok with 125 grain +P ammunition shouldn't it? The literature says Ok with newer revolvers. Is 54 years considerd new?

Thanks for any response.

 

[P&R Fan]

Welcome from Iowa.
In answer to your +P question (You'll find out that one stirs up a hornets nest around here) S&W advises not to use +P loads in a revolver that is not model marked, such as yours.
OK, now I've told you what the company says. Now you wanna hear what most of us believe? Of course you do or you wouldn't have asked, right? Go ahead and shoot them in it. It's not going to blow up in your hands if you do. I have a Combat Masterpiece that's about that age and I shoot +Ps in it. The worst thing that can happen is accelerated wear if a large number are fired. And when I say large, I mean LARGE. This, by the way is assuming the revolver is in good condition.
Congratulations on having one of the classics.
Now how about a picture?
Jim

 

[ogilvyspecial]

Hello RIrunner & a big WELCOME ABOARD!!

 

[S&W Oldtimer]

Welcome from Va.

 

[novalty]

Greetings from Maine. Welcome aboard!

 

[deralte]

RIrunner, welcome from North Carolina.

 

[jj2am44]

Greetings from western Pa. Enjoy the forum

 

[fyimo]

Welcome to the forum from Arkansas

 

[pawncop]

Welcome from Texas RIrunner. Great forum for all things S&W, have fun, learn lots, share what you know.