[Blowingsky]

I have an original Model 15 Combat Masterpiece with a 4 inch barrel that I haven't fired in quite a while. I am going to take it out to the range but noticed that the only ammo I have around is +P. I know this gun was built before +p pressures were available. Anybody know if this load is too much for the gun?

[rcmodel]

No, a Model 15 is plenty strong for todays +P.

Before there was +P there was .38 Spl High-Speed and a lot of cops used those in K-Frames.
It developed much higher pressure then todays +P loads.

rc

[Blowingsky]

Thanks!

[rcmodel]

Just so you know, standard pressure .38 Spl has a SAAMI max of 17,000 PSI and +P is 20,000.

The .357 Magnum, which the K-Frame was also chambered in as the Model 19 and others runs 35,000 PSI.

Years ago when P+ was introduced in 1974, .38 Spl was 18,900 CUP, +P became 22,400 CUP, and .357 Mag was 46,000 CUP.

It is a kinder gentler world we live in today.

rc

[Husker_Fan]

rc,
Would you say the same for a 5-screw Combat Mastepiece built in '52?

I know the general rule is +p only in model numbered guns, but I also have heard that heat treating since the '30's is adequate.

[rcmodel]

I would have no reservations about shooting todays +P in any K-frame made since WWII.

50 years ago, standard pressure .38 Spl drove a 158 grain lead bullet at 855 FPS.

Todays standard pressure load does 755.
+P supposedly makes 890 FPS.

Or 35 FPS more then standard pressure 50 years ago!
Wow!

It goes without saying a gun will probably last longer shooting 148 grain Target wadcutters at 12,000 PSI then +P at 20,000.
But still it won't hurt a K-Frame any more then standard pressure ammo did when the gun was made back then.

rc

[Blowingsky]

Right, I should mention that my "Model 15" is the 5 screw prior to the model stamp. I think it was probably made in the early '50's.

[roaddog28]

I have a combat masterpiece 4 inch production 1951. I will shoot +Ps if I don't have a choice. Just look at your FPS to make sure your in the 800 fps range. Yestersday I saw online at Midway some SBR Match Ammunition 38 Special 148 Grain Hollow Base Wadcutter Box of 50 which is available for $28.00 Now that is pricey but this should be a excellent round for the model 15 for practice.
The model 15 can handle hotter then the standard 158g LRN. Just watch the specs on ammo when ordering.

Good luck,
roaddog28