Model 15 SN Check

[SAvulgarghost]

Hey everyone, I got an old Smith Model 15 from On Target in Kalamazoo and couldn't be happier with it. Solid lock-up, sweet trigger, and the thing points and shoots so naturally it's way more accurate than I am. Reading gun forums (THR is the only one I joined) helped me make this decision and for a new pistol owner I think this is a terrific piece.

So anyway, as the title indicates the SN is 331263 and there is no model number on the barrel, just 38 S&W Special Ctg. I'd be really grateful if someone could tell me when my gun was made, and if anyone had any interesting tidbits about this model of revolver. Thanks in advance!

Erik

 

[Hutch]

Erik, if that's the complete serial number, then it's waaaaay older than a model 15. I don't have access to the SCOSW, but IIRC, that'd be pre-Depression. Can you take some pix and post 'em? For one that old, the end of the ejector rod would have a knob, and the S/N should be on the barrel and cylinder as well. I don't recall when the .38 Combat Masterpiece was introduced (Original pre-15). Look on the grip frame on the butt of the gun. It may have an alphabetic prefix way over to the left.

Let us know.

 

[PJR]

SN is 331263

If it has a K-prefix it will be 1958 according to the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson. The Model number should on the inside of the frame opposite the crane. It will be a Model 15 (no dash).

 

[SAvulgarghost]

oops

It does have a K on the far left by the serial, otherwise it just has "Smith & Wesson" on one side and "38 S&W Special CTG." on the other side of the barrel.

 

[SAvulgarghost]

Thanks, I tried to get some pics but they all turned out horribly. So are there any special tips or concerns for it? Any bullet weights or materials that could cause problems? It didn't come with a manual so I'm just putting standard pressure lead .38's through it, although wasn't it 1955 and on that Smiths could handle +P loads safely?

 

[Hutch]

Unless you just feel the need for speed, I wouldn't plink with +P, but... If I had to rely on it for protection, I'd use the 158gr LSWCHP +P load so beloved of us here. I doubt you could ever wear it out shooting standard pressure ammo.

 

[Old Fuff]

The Old Fuff has delt with On Target in Kalamazoo on many occasions, and recommends them highly. Those that surf www.gunbroker.com will find they have a lot of good stuff at usually reasonable prices.

 

[Old Fuff]

SAvulgarghost:

I'd suggest that you purchase a box of .38 Special "cowboy loads." (158 grain lead bullet @ 750FPS) that closely duplicates the ammunition that this revolver was designed to use. It will handle hotter stuff, but for range shooting and plinking I see no reason to use the hotter loads.

On Target will likely have some in stock.