Opinions on model 14 S&W

[Jim NE]

I almost bought a model 10 thirty years ago, and regret not doing so. Someone had a model 10 thread awhile back and it got me thinking.

When I visited the S&W site recently, however, I fell in love with the model 14 instead (6" barrel.). It has that classic S&W look, blued steel with smaller wood grips, but with adjustable sites instead of fixed. To me, it looks like more or less the archetype of the double action revolver.

I know a lot of folks with good sense wouldn't dream of spending that much on a .38, opting for a .357 instead, but I just love classics - classic cars, classic music, etc., and I really don't have any classic guns yet. I know .357's are classics, too, but at some point, I'll be inheriting a mid-1950's model 28 from my dad. Any other opinions on why NOT to buy a model 14?

I want to target shoot. I hope to get a Concealed carry permit, but presume the model 14 will be too large. I may use it for home defense, though. I have a good functioning .38 special, but I'm not sure it's rated for +P. (Rossi snub nose.)

Feel free to talk me out of this, anyone.

Oh, I forgot to ask, are Smith and Wesson's "Classic Series" usually stocked by bigger gun stores, or are they usually special orders? Cabela's didn't have model 14's on their site.

 

[rcmodel]

The Model 14 is one of the finest .38 Special target revolvers ever.

But if you want a classic, why not get the real deal?

Older used ones turn up all the time, at about half the price of what the new MIM wonders S&W is making now.

The old ones have color case-hardened forged steel wide hammers & triggers, pinned barrels, old school polishing & bluing, as well as hand fitted actions.

http://www.gunsamerica.com/90061963...olvers/Full-Frame-Revolver/S_W_Model_14_4.htm

rc

 

[Colt Smith]

The M14 is a classic. If you buy one new it will have the lock above the cylinder release latch. It doesn't make it a BAD gun but a lot of people who favor the classics tend to dislike that detail. For less than the price of a new one you could probably find a nice clean example of a vintage M14 or its predecessor the K38. Just make sure it is checked out properly before purchase. If you want .357 capability and adjustable sights look at the Model 19. Same classic K frame beauty in a .357 Mag. Plus, if you plan to carry some day the 2.5" version makes an EXCELLENT carry piece. Don't worry about the Model 10. One will eventually follow every Smith & Wesson fan home some day. My LGS has a couple of "Classic" models but they just sit there in the case.

 

[19-3Ben]

classic cars, classic music, etc.,

So would you buy the real classics, or the newly made imitations of the classics?
Personally, I'd rather go with the original thing (like this) rather than the remake.

The original will have the pinned barrel, no lock, and a real action made back when a S&W K frame trigger was as good as a trigger can get.
The classic series is nice, but nothing screams history like the gun that really was there, and really did do that.

 

[woad_yurt]

I just went to the S&W sight to see what a re-issue 14 lists for; it was $909.00!!!

You can probably get two originals, the real classics, for that price. Go to Gunbroker; you'll see. I've bought three and still have two; they all cost between $300-$400.

You can use the money you save to buy yourself a reloading setup. You'll see what I mean when you get a 14 to the range. You'll want all the ammo you can get your hands on. A 6" Model 14 is my all-time favorite shooting experience.

 

[Paladin38-40]

The real thing

+1 for a used Model 14, also known as the K-38 Masterpiece. In the revolver haydays it was the standard by which all others were judged for your intended use.

 

[Remo223]

For a classic, I like the model 10 with a 5" or 6" skinny barrel. I'm not sure if they ever made a model 14 with a skinny barrel. I know they don't currently.

 

[Jim NE]

"I've bought three and still have two; they all cost between $300-$400."

There seems to be a recurring theme here. I thought the $900 price tag is too high, too. The used prices seem fantastic.

Thanks for your input, guys. More opinions are welcome.

 

[SwampWolf]

I just bought one like new, with original box and papers, at a gun show recently for $500.00. It's a good companion piece for my Colt Officer's Model Special and will see duty in some future Bullseye meets. They don't, and probably never will, make revolvers like these anymore.

 

[MrBorland]

When I visited the S&W site recently, however, I fell in love with the model 14 instead (6" barrel.). It has that classic S&W look, blued steel with smaller wood grips, but with adjustable sites instead of fixed. To me, it looks like more or less the archetype of the double action revolver.

Any other opinions on why NOT to buy a model 14?

I want to target shoot.

I can heartily recommend a vintage Model 14, or it's predecessor, the K-38. If you want to target shoot, it'd be a fine choice. As others mentioned, a 6" Model 19 is another classic and would make a fine .38 target gun.

If you're interested in target shooting with a revolver, keep an eye open for a used PPC revolver. Since the popularity of PPC has waned, they're often a screamin' deal for what they are. They're usually custom-built guns with heavy aftermarket barrels and sight ribs, so one may not be your cup of tea if you like the "classic" look.

 

[clang]

I just bought a used 1959 Model 15 Combat Masterpiece (the 4" version of the Model 14 Target Masterpiece) in at least 95% condition in the box for $300 at a recent gunshow. The guy had been trying to sell it for hours with no success. I think most buyers want either .357 Mag or stainless steel (or both). They overlook these classis guns.

Good for those of us who know better.

 

[Jim NE]

SwampWolf, that sounds great.

The link that 19-3Ben posted looks like a VERY nice specimen. Thanks for that (and to rcmodel for his link.) I may take action on that gun. Man that is cool. From what I can tell, it's likey a mid to late 1960's version. ...I think it's pretty obvious that used is the way to go, based on the overwhelming consensus. I had originally thought of used, but my initial instinct was that I would be apprehensive about condition.

I AM concerned about determining mechanical function when buying something off of the internet, though. That being said, that one looks clean. I'll probably contact the shop and talk to them.

 

[Iggy]

I would find a used 14. They don't come any better. An additional value is that the .22 cal Model 17 is an exact match in size, weight, and configuration.



I have two of each.

 

[Smith357]

The model 14 is by far my most favorite handgun. I have had a few of them and they were all tack drivers. They are the consummate gentleman's target revolver, the only thing that comes close is the Colt Officers Model Target. Of all my handguns the Model 14 is what sits on my nightstand with FBI loads, it's what I shoot best with and it has never missed the target.

I would not waste the money on a new Model 14, there are plenty of good solid old model 14s out there that can be had for less than half the price of a new one, and IMHO the older ones are built better. I see minty 14s and pre-14s selling from $400-700, why pay $1200 for new a MIM parts gun with a key hole in the side?

14-4


14-2 with King front sight

 

[Cop Bob]

In this Case

Older is Better, go for something made 70's or older, or at least early 80's..

I'm not sure when/where the serial number break is for the older Smith's, as many as I own and shoot, you would think I would know..

I own a fist full of K-Frames, most are 50's, 60's and 70's Mfg.. a few 80's and 90's...

The fit and finish is superb, a pure joy to shoot, parts readily available.. Trigger jobs if needed are not time consuming, nor expensive. (No parts needed actually)

They are simply one of the finest revolvers ever made.. You cannot make a finer choice for your collection... absolutely fine shooters...

 

[jhvaughan2]

Anyone who has not had the chance to shoot a 30-60 year-old S&W .38 Masterpiece in slow single action firing, has missed one of the great pleasures of the sport.

 

[SwampWolf]

^^^Very true. I even like having to cock those old classic revolvers in the timed and rapid fire stages when competing in Bullseye matches.

 

[Bush Pilot]

Get the original Model 14, one of the best Smiths ever produced. I don't see how S & W is selling the new models when you see what they're charging.

 

[Blown6L]

I recently picked up a 70's era Model 14 for $450, including tax. Managed to get it out for a shoot a couple weeks ago. With some tame 38 special wadcutter loads it could quite possibly be the finest shooting revolver I've ever had the pleasure to shoot. I'm going to enjoy trying to wear it out.

 

[Minnesota Wild]

I have a vintage Model 14. Of my 11 handguns it's one of the 2 that come to the range with me virtually every trip. There's something intoxicating about old Smiths, which is why I have several, but this one is special, even by old Smiths standards. You mentioned getting a .357...I would buy this one and get a Model 13 for bigger bore fun.

 

[nwilliams]

My very first handgun was a Model 14 with full lug barrel.

Sold it back in the late 90's, sure wish I had kept it

 

[madcratebuilder]

The model 10 may get more ink than the model 14 but the 14 well shot rings around the 10. This one is from 1960.

 

[StrawHat]

clang ...I just bought a used 1959 Model 15 Combat Masterpiece (the 4" version of the Model 14 Target Masterpiece)...

The M15 is very similar to the M14 but S&W did make the M14 with a 4" barrel. I believe they were a special order for a couple of Police Departments but they are out there.

And there are a few 6" barreled M15s. Not as many as the short M14s but they are out there. One thing that is true about S&W revolvers is "never say never...or always!"

 

[Jim NE]

My Model 14 dreams will have to wait...for NOW....

My model 14 dreams have been put on hold temporarily. I just bought myself a model 10 INSTEAD!!. If you remember from my original post, I was first interested in a model 10, but was side tracked by the beautiful model 14. I'M STILL GOING TO BUY A MODEL 14, just can't justify it right now (or justify it to my wife.)

My model 10 was made in 1977 and has a 4 inch barrel. IT'S LOVELY! It has a bit of finish and grip wear, but it's not what I'd call hideous. I bought it locally, and it was less money than what I was seeing online. (And a whole lot less than the new ones.) The cylinder locks up tight and the bore looks good. I can't wait to shoot it. Thanks for all the input everyone! (and the GREAT pics.)

There's no way I'm NOT going to buy a model 14. Maybe next year. Hope the prices don't go up...