K-38 Target Masterpiece

[tnegiet]

I was hoping you guys could give me some history and approximate value of a firearm I inherited. It appears to be a S&W K-38 Target Masterpiece. The barrel is 6”, blue, and has an adjustable rear sight. The serial number is K370XX. I have wooden grips for it but do not think they are the originals. There is a small rust blemish towards the front of one side of the barrel, looks repairable. Thanks for any help.

 

[351 WINCHESTER]

What you have there is the "gold standard" for target revolvers. It's probably worth about $650 or more depending on condition.
Your k38 is a 5 screw which command a higher premium. If my memory serves me correctly it was made in the 1950's. The grips don't appear to be original.

 

[tnegiet]

I'm told the lower serial number means it's from 1948. I'm still trying to learn all the in's and out's of it. I'm sure the grips are from the 70's. If I'm looking to put original grips on it what kind should I be shopping for? ...Diamond center?

 

[StrawHat]

Have you checked out the S&W forums? They can provide a lot of answers.

 

[tnegiet]

I did, great info. Thanks

 

[CSA 357]

yes its from 1948, great shooters!

 

[Jim K]

The grips are factory, and may be original. They are target stocks and usually went with a target hammer and target trigger, neither of which that gun has. S&W grips that came on guns (not replacements) have the serial number of the gun on the inside of the right grip.

A superb gun.

Jim

 

[natman]

The grips are factory, but not original. I believe that an S&W from that era should have diamond grips.

Gorgeous gun.

 

[Jim Watson]

A set of correct Magna grips will be expensive. A set of correct target grips will be very expensive. Just depends on what your objective for the gun is.