My strange love of the Combat Masterpiece

[KevH]

It's odd. There are so many "better" options out there. I started my LE career in the post-revolver era. Sure, there were still a few gray-haired guys carrying Model 19's, Pythons, and some other odd stuff, but they were all about to retire. Revolvers in my era have all had 5 shots and were kept in a pocket or on a vest as a backup. The "gun guys" at my department all carried Model 25's in 45 Colt and other N frames or Colt Pythons. No one voluntarily, to my knowledge, carried the lowly 38 Special.

I've carried quite a few different guns in my career and have shot and handled a whole hell of a lot more. Yet there is one that has always felt perfect to me in every regard possible. I remember picking one up for the first time. It was an old late 1950's one with diamond Magna grips. It had a terrible department property engraving on the frame and had been used to shoot blanks for the past twenty years. Yet picking it up, holding it in my hand, and feeling the action, just something about it felt...well...perfect.

No matter what gun I come across, no matter how expensive or rare, one always will feel best in my hand and makes me feel armed. What is it? A Python? An N frame? A Performance Center 686? None of these.

The perfect gun in my hand is and always will be the Combat Masterpiece.

I can't explain it. I don't even own one at the moment. I could wear one today on duty with a couple speed loaders and the old FBI load today and feel completely armed. Every time I pick one up (and I've handled and shot plenty) I get a warm feeling. Perhaps I need to find a nice one to make my own.

[FNFAN]

Exquisitely balanced. Usually finely accurate. It's a throwback piece to the days of old. One of my best friends and the man who made sure I didn't party my way out of LE college carried one in stainless, the Model 67. He moved out of law enforcement and back into computers for the money in the 1990's. It was willed to me but after he passed it was nowhere to be found.


I agree. I would not feel uncomfortable with that as my sole "social" piece.

[03RN]

I could ride the river with a 4" 15 or 19. Heck, I've carried my Blackhawk in .45 Colt/ with 250 grain xtps at 1200 fps before

[mmc45414]

I (with Dad's support) bought one in 1973 with money I made delivering newspapers, I think it was $93 (We would typically get big tips at Christmas time, one dude gave me five bucks and I remember it like it was yesterday). It was taken in a burglary and while I sometimes think I wish I still had ever car, gun or motorcycle I ever traded away, if I could pick one to get back it would be the M-15.

[Stephanie B]

Perhaps I need to find a nice one to make my own.

Do it. They aren't getting any cheaper.

[blues]

The 2" Model 15 "Combat Masterpiece" was my first issued firearm when I began my LE career in the early 80's. (The 5 shot model 36 was my off duty.)

This image I found online brings back decades old memories...

22052

[Hambo]

The 2" Model 15 "Combat Masterpiece" was my first issued firearm when I began my LE career in the early 80's. (The 5 shot model 36 was my off duty.)

This image I found online brings back decades old memories...

22052

I'm not fond of 4" .38s, but a 6" M14 and a 2" M15 would be great pair.

[BN]

Thread needs more pictures. ;)

22059

[Bigghoss]

Do it. They aren't getting any cheaper.

It's gotten so bad Stephanie had to switch to Rugers. :D

[NETim]

http://frontiernet.net/~netim/k19.jpg

[KevH]

Thread needs more pictures. ;)

22059

Bill, is that a Model 15 or that rare bird, a 4" Model 14?

[HCM]

http://frontiernet.net/~netim/k19.jpg

Is that a 15 with a shrouded ejector rod or a 19?

[NETim]

Is that a 15 with a shrouded ejector rod or a 19?

Just a plain ol' 19.

[HCM]

Just a plain ol' 19.

19 was originally the “Combat Magnum” not the “Combat Masterpiece” - the “Combat Masterpiece” is what became the Model 15.

[taadski]

15 + 18

https://i.imgur.com/D3BoHiq.jpg

[NETim]

19 was originally the “Combat Magnum” not the “Combat Masterpiece” - the “Combat Masterpiece” is what became the Model 15.

Oh okay.

[LtDave]

My 2" Model 15. Shot it at the Revolver Round up in Dallas a few days ago. Now wearing some Spegel boot grips instead of the John Hurst ones:

22067

This one is a replacement for my first one that I bought brand new in 1975 for $135 and stupidly sold. Paid quite a bit more for the replacement.

[BN]

Bill, is that a Model 15 or that rare bird, a 4" Model 14?

That's a Model 15.

I was at a gun show today that had a 4" on the table that had a tag that said Model 14. The guy behind the table didn't seem to know what it was. :(

[deputyG23]

The 4” M15 was issued by my work in the ‘70s. One was used in the last OIS we had in about ‘79. There were a couple of M18s in inventory when I started in ‘81 that we’re used for training. All were destroyed in the early ‘90s. Wish they could have had loving homes instead...

[TheNewbie]

Was the 4 inch model 14 issued by LAPD?

[Bigghoss]

Sometime about 2005 I found a 4" 19-3 with a lot of holster wear but good mechanically for $275 so I grabbed it. My dad had carried one as a cop in the early 90's but had to sell it. He pestered me to sell him mine for the longest time so I eventually bought a GP100 and left the 19 with him.

[Joe in PNG]

K Frame love is nothing strange.

[Bushytale]

If there could be only one, it would definitely be a 4 inch Model 19 Blue.

[HCM]

If there could be only one, it would definitely be a 4 inch Model 19 Blue.

But that is a "combat magnum" not a "combat masterpiece."

[peterb]

22075
Model 15. A Gunbroker win for under $300 a couple of years ago. Looks a bit rough, shoots better than I do.

I've got medium-sized hands, and a K-frame feels better to me than a J, L, or N. Funny how that works...:D

A 4" or 6" K-frame with light-to-moderate loads makes a great "next step" from a .22LR. And for folks whose only revolver experience is an airweight J-frame --- you're missing a treat.

[Stephanie B]

Was the 4 inch model 14 issued by LAPD?

Didn't their gunsmiths cut their Model 14s from 6" to 4"?

[blues]

But that is a "combat magnum" not a "combat masterpiece."

I feel your pain, H. Preach it brother!

[Jim Watson]

I wish I still had my old M15. The present M67 is good but just not the same.
I DO still have my "pre-18". A 4" K22 is just about right.

[Dagga Boy]

I have a love hate with the Model 15. I was hired by my agency from a police supply company after I sold them P-220's for the SWAT Team. When I was ready to go to the academy I had a pair of gorgeous custom 686's that were perfectly tuned and dialed in (4" and 2.75"). The staff at the PD knew I was both a gun person and a competitive shooter, so to teach me a lesson early I was given the biggest pile of shit Model 15 4" known to mankind and was ordered to shoot it through the Academy and could not use my own guns. It was missing the right half of the rear sight, had obviously been involved in some sort of accident and was simply a pice of junk that would "fire" but otherwise was crap. I did well with the gun and easily took first place in the Combat Shoot portion of our testing. I had top scores throughout the Academy and was set to win the Top Gun award. During the Top Gun shoot I was winning with both time and score (luckily I was way ahead on time) when I got to the last phase and punched out my empty cylinder and went to speed load my last six, the entire cylinder came out in my hand with the yoke. I found out the hard way that the yoke retaining screw was completely stripped and was glued into the gun. I reassembled the gun after finding the screw on the ground and just shoving it in with hand pressure and ripped my last six rounds just as the time expired. Having to severely rush the last phase cost me and I lost the Top Gun shoot by 1 fricking point to a Deputy shooting a customized 6" 686. I hated the Model 15! Hated anything to do with the Model 15 and refused to own anything that looked like a Model 15. I turned my Academy gun in the first Monday morning I started with my agency and carried a 4" Model 25-5 backed up with a Model 13 3" and a Model 38 Bodyguard on my ankle.
Fast forward to more recently. I have several 2" Model 15's that are great shooters. I inherited a 4" Model 15 from a relative that was his Orange County Sheriff's reserve duty gun (which was basically his title for being a hunting buddy with the Sheriff in the getting a badge for being the Sheriff's hunting buddy from Safari Club days of law enforcement). That gun is now set up with Fuzzy Farrant grips to match Pete Malloy's gun from Adam-12. I also have a 6" Model 14 with Farrant that is what Malloy carried in the early seasons.

Regarding cut 14's. Yep, they were done in the days of Revolver shooting being very serious business. One of my most prized possessions is a 1965 Hanen Special that is a factory 4" Model 14 super heavy barrel that is now equipped with John Hurst grips. If I was ever shooting with money on he line, that is the gun that I would liklely carry.

[HCM]

I feel your pain, H. Preach it brother!

I have a 4” M15 and. 4” M18. A 2” M15 has been on my want list for some time.

[blues]

I have a 4” M15 and. 4” M18. A 2” M15 has been on my want list for some time.

If I come across one I'll be sure to give you a heads up. My old issued model was a great shooter.

[SamAdams]

KevH - on a slight diversion from topic, I gotta ask - were the guys carrying M25s in 45 Colt with a rural or big city agency ? Thanks !


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Dagga Boy]

My 2" Model 15. Shot it at the Revolver Round up in Dallas a few days ago. Now wearing some Spegel boot grips instead of the John Hurst ones:

22067

This one is a replacement for my first one that I bought brand new in 1975 for $135 and stupidly sold. Paid quite a bit more for the replacement.

Calling dibs on the Hurst grips......

Just a note....LT. Dave shot that gun like a boss in class and we noted that it was a great example of being like riding a bicycle. After a little warm up and reacquinting with rolling a DA trigger he shot great and his gun handling skills were super well honed. It was fun to watch him, Mark Fricke and Wayne all run guns as lefty's. They came from the "figure it out yourself, hippy" era of how to teach lefty's in LE.

[GJM]

Just won an auction on a two inch 15 on GB — what grips do I want? Any other info, on preferred ammo or other things relevant to this revolver?

[SteveB]

Hard to beat VZ for the price:

https://vzgrips.com/pistol-grips/smith-wesson/k-l-frame/square-bottoms/320s

[Dagga Boy]

Just won an auction on a two inch 15 on GB — what grips do I want? Any other info, on preferred ammo or other things relevant to this revolver?

I ll call you.

[KevH]

KevH - on a slight diversion from topic, I gotta ask - were the guys carrying M25s in 45 Colt with a rural or big city agency ? Thanks !


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

We're a suburb of San Francisco. SFPD issued 4" S&W Highway Patrolmen with a smattering of S&W 58's all the way up until the mid 1990's when Officer Jim Guelff was murdered (they transitioned to the Beretta 96F and then in 2004 to the SIG 226R 40 S&W). I would say the entire SF Bay Area was about half S&W N frames and half S&W Combat Magnums with a smattering of Colt Pythons from about 1970 to the early 1990's when everyone switched to autoloaders.

My own department issued the S&W M&P (pre-Model 10) with pencil barrel up into the 1950's. Mid-1950's they switched to the S&W Combat Masterpiece. Then they issued the Colt Series 70 Governments from 1973 to 1984 or so and then issued the new fangled S&W 659 and later 5906 up until 2001 when we went to the horrid SW99 in 40 S&W (no one actually carried them, guys were giving loans to academy students to buy a better gun). S&W switched us to the M&P in 2008 for free and we've been issuing them ever since.

We have a very liberal personally owned sidearm policy. During the revolver days the 4" 25-5 was EXTRMELY popular at my PD followed by the Colt Python. Surrounding agencies were almost all Combat Magnums either 19's or 66's (that's what I grew up seeing everyone carrying and what most guys that were about to retire were carrying when I started).

[Jeep]

I have a nice 4" barrel Model 15, and I like all K frames, but my favorite continues to be the 2.5 inch Model 19. With 158 grain ammo those things tend to be lasers.

[SamAdams]

We're a suburb of San Francisco. SFPD issued 4" S&W Highway Patrolmen with a smattering of S&W 58's all the way up until the mid 1990's when Officer Jim Guelff was murdered (they transitioned to the Beretta 96F and then in 2004 to the SIG 226R 40 S&W). I would say the entire SF Bay Area was about half S&W N frames and half S&W Combat Magnums with a smattering of Colt Pythons from about 1970 to the early 1990's when everyone switched to autoloaders.

My own department issued the S&W M&P (pre-Model 10) with pencil barrel up into the 1950's. Mid-1950's they switched to the S&W Combat Masterpiece. Then they issued the Colt Series 70 Governments from 1973 to 1984 or so and then issued the new fangled S&W 659 and later 5906 up until 2001 when we went to the horrid SW99 in 40 S&W (no one actually carried them, guys were giving loans to academy students to buy a better gun). S&W switched us to the M&P in 2008 for free and we've been issuing them ever since.

We have a very liberal personally owned sidearm policy. During the revolver days the 4" 25-5 was EXTRMELY popular at my PD followed by the Colt Python. Surrounding agencies were almost all Combat Magnums either 19's or 66's (that's what I grew up seeing everyone carrying and what most guys that were about to retire were carrying when I started).

Thank you !

A Very interesting read


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[LtDave]

Didn't their gunsmiths cut their Model 14s from 6" to 4"?

I don’t think so. However, my Department did cut down their Model 14’s. A local gunsmth did the mod and reinstalled the patridge front sight. I had one issued to me when I was a reserve. It shot spectacularly well and I was very disappointed when I had to turn it in for a new Model 15 when I got hired as a regular.

[LtDave]

Just won an auction on a two inch 15 on GB — what grips do I want? Any other info, on preferred ammo or other things relevant to this revolver?

Spegel boot grips for the win.

[scott]

I think they're pretty hard not to love.
22099
22100
22101

[LtDave]

Calling dibs on the Hurst grips......

Just a note....LT. Dave shot that gun like a boss in class and we noted that it was a great example of being like riding a bicycle. After a little warm up and reacquinting with rolling a DA trigger he shot great and his gun handling skills were super well honed. It was fun to watch him, Mark Fricke and Wayne all run guns as lefty's. They came from the "figure it out yourself, hippy" era of how to teach lefty's in LE.

That gun has a pretty nice action, but IMHO hasn’t had any work done on it. I didn’t pull the sideplate, but 99% sure the springs were all full power.
I had sighted it in prior to the class, shooting SA off sandbags. The first live DA shot I fired out of it was at the class. Never used the floral carved Lawrence holster before either.

[revchuck38]

Spegel boot grips for the win.

+1. I've got four sets of his Boot Plus grips, including the one on my M67. IMO they're absolutely the best grips for a K frame square butt.

[GJM]

+1. I've got four sets of his Boot Plus grips, including the one on my M67. IMO they're absolutely the best grips for a K frame square butt.

Are they in stock anywhere, or is it an order and wait proposition?

[Bigghoss]

Let's be honest. If you don't like K-frames to the point it defies logic you're just doing it wrong.

[SeriousStudent]

I was coaching three youngsters yesterday at the range on how to safely operate a wheelgun. I was using my 4" Model 15, and all of them loved it.

I did find a better set of grips and am whittling them down for younger paws.

The two firearms they loved the most were a K-frame Smith and a suppressed .22 AR. We only stopped shooting those two when we ran out of ammo.

And I brought a LOT of ammo. :cool:

[revchuck38]

Are they in stock anywhere, or is it an order and wait proposition?

If he's still making them - he's no spring chicken - it's a call and talk with him and wait thing. It might be ten years since I bought a set. If you need a set now, Uncle Mike's offered rubber ones that he designed, but they're not the Plus configuration, and I haven't seen them recently. If you need a set quick, PM me and I'll send you a set of the Uncle Mike's, I've got spares.

ETA: He's finally on the internet, his website is http://www.craigspegel.com/

[TheNewbie]

What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

[BobM]

When I was issued a Security Six, I used a Bianchi Pistol Pocket for off duty carry. I used Safariland Split Six carriers for reloads, although sometimes I would use the wire speedloader holder that Ted Blocker made.

[LtDave]

If he's still making them - he's no spring chicken - it's a call and talk with him and wait thing. It might be ten years since I bought a set. If you need a set now, Uncle Mike's offered rubber ones that he designed, but they're not the Plus configuration, and I haven't seen them recently. If you need a set quick, PM me and I'll send you a set of the Uncle Mike's, I've got spares.

ETA: He's finally on the internet, his website is http://www.craigspegel.com/
He does have the website, but snail mail is probably your best bet to contact him. His grips show up pretty regularly on ebay.

[LtDave]

What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

It will vary by region. Hoyt break fronts were very popular on the west coast and were issue holsters for quite a few agencies, inluding LAPD. Clamshells were a common private purchase with LAPD officers and some bay area agencies. LASD used to issue Safety Speed break fronts, but did not authorize clam shells.

I worked for a suburban SoCal PD. In the late ‘70s, my first duty holster was a Hoyt that I purchased for my 5” M27. We issued the Safety Speed breakfront with M14 and M15 Smiths. I have one for my 6” M14. When we went to the 686 in the early ‘80s, the issue holster was a S&W security holster bought as part of a package deal with the guns. I bought a high ride Gordon Davis thumb break because I hated the clunky look of the issue one. Subsequent to the Hoyt, I used a swivel clamshell for a 4” K frame and later had Safety Speed modify it to fit the issued 686.

The Safety Speed break front holster that was common in the ‘70s and ‘80s:
22104

[GJM]

I am going JM GEORGE. :p

[Willard]

He does have the website, but snail mail is probably your best bet to contact him. His grips show up pretty regularly on ebay.

I spoke with him last month to get on the waiting list and he said it was approximately 2 years. His number is on the website and he will return your call promptly if you miss him. He also said once you were on the list, you could order multiples if desired.

[blues]

What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

We used DeSantis and used to run out to Gene's place on Long Island to pick them up directly. We also used his dump pouches as I recall.

[iWander]

A '54 vintage CM I bought from a Delaware officer. It was his competition gun. He bought it off his FTO who also competed with it and was the original owner.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171204/454ebbf25e8bf72d692428c75aa714f8.jpg

I've owned several Smiths and shot most every model and frame over the years. I also like Colts & Rugers and have the privilege of firing many of them as well. To me, nothing compares to K frame, especially the CM/15 & and M12. The only other that comes close is an L frame like the many 686s & 586s I've owned.

[deputyG23]

What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

When 4” M64s were standard fare at my place, belt slot/pancake holsters were what nearly everyone used for plainclothes work or off duty. Most often the Bucheimer Concealer holster was issued. I bought a Bianchi 8L when I first started in ‘81 and still have it.
Belt pouches for six spare rounds were issued. Speed loaders were allowed in about ‘84 and I would carry one in my right front pants pocket when carrying off duty.

[GJM]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

[MistWolf]

The 158 gr RN or SWC is the classic 357/38 load.

[TheNewbie]

I am always fascinated by old police gear. I started in 2007, so I did not get to experience a lot of the old school gear being carried around me.


What is the difference between a Model 14 and 15? Is it just sights?

This is tempting......

http://www.gunbroker.com/item/722260071

[HCM]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

For carry? The old FBI / Chicago PD load - 158 grain Lead SWC Hollow Point +P.

[HCM]

I am always fascinated by old police gear. I started in 2007, so I did not get to experience a lot of the old school gear being carried around me.


What is the difference between a Model 14 and 15? Is it just sights?

This is tempting......

http://www.gunbroker.com/item/722260071

15 has a tapered barrel. 14 has a heavier bull barrel profile.

Look at the first picture Dagga Boy posted in Post 29. You can see the straight wall / bull barrel profile of the M14 as contrasted with the tapered barrels on M15/M67.

[GJM]

For carry? The old FBI / Chicago PD load - 158 grain Lead SWC Hollow Point +P.


Like this?

http://www.sgammo.com/product/38-special-ammo/50-round-box-38-special-lead-swc-158-grain-prvi-partizan-ammo-ppr332

[scott]

No, that's not a hollow point. This one https://www.luckygunner.com/38-special-p-158-gr-lswchp-federal-le-50-rounds or another manufacturer's equivalent.

[LtDave]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

For general shooting, I’ve had good luck with both the Geco and S&B 158 grain FMJ FP loads. The older RWS packaged FMJ FP stuff shoots awsome as well but doesn’t seem to be available any more. I think the Geco replaced it. The Fiocchi 158 FMJ RN has also shot well for me in several guns. For defensive use in 4” or longer guns, the 158 SWC HP loads from Winchester, Remington or Federal work well. The Federal load seems the hottest for some reason, I really did not enjoy shooting it out of an airweight J frame and actually stopped after 3 rounds it was so painful.

[Sherman A. House DDS]

It will vary by region. Hoyt break fronts were very popular on the west coast and were issue holsters for quite a few agencies, inluding LAPD. Clamshells were a common private purchase with LAPD officers and some bay area agencies. LASD used to issue Safety Speed break fronts, but did not authorize clam shells.

I worked for a suburban SoCal PD. In the late ‘70s, my first duty holster was a Hoyt that I purchased for my 5” M27. We issued the Safety Speed breakfront with M14 and M15 Smiths. I have one for my 6” M14. When we went to the 686 in the early ‘80s, the issue holster was a S&W security holster bought as part of a package deal with the guns. I bought a high ride Gordon Davis thumb break because I hated the clunky look of the issue one. Subsequent to the Hoyt, I used a swivel clamshell for a 4” K frame and later had Safety Speed modify it to fit the issued 686.

The Safety Speed break front holster that was common in the ‘70s and ‘80s:
22104

I used that holster in the 90’s, before I switched to the Bianchi Judge! Armored Transport issued those up into the late 90’s before they switched to I think Uncle Mike’s PRO-2’s.


civiliandefender.com

[Sherman A. House DDS]

Oh yeah...and Hoyt’s were made in my hometown, Coupeville WA.


civiliandefender.com

[oregon45]

I had wanted a 2" M15 ever since I read Chuck Taylor's edition of the "Gun Digest Book of Combat Handgunnery." Finally found one at a local shop for a decent price:

https://i.imgur.com/aH9nDBj.jpg?1

Shoots pretty good too:

https://i.imgur.com/hb8Ua5n.jpg

[HCM]

Like this?

http://www.sgammo.com/product/38-special-ammo/50-round-box-38-special-lead-swc-158-grain-prvi-partizan-ammo-ppr332

That is not a hollow point nor is it +P.

More like this: https://www.luckygunner.com/38-special-p-158-gr-lswchp-federal-le-1000-rounds

https://www.luckygunner.com/38-special-p-158-gr-lswchp-federal-le-50-rounds

https://www.luckygunner.com/38-special-p-158-grain-lead-semi-wadcutter-hp-winchester-super-x-50-rounds

[KevH]

What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

Around here about 99% of folks used black basketweave Hoyt front-break (or AE Nelson version) and then Safariland. Most used Speedloaders with a preference for HKS.

[KevH]

The 14 was almost all 6" barrel and with a heavier profile and a partridge target front sight.

The 15 was a 4" or 2" barrel with a thinner profile and a ramped front sight.

Just to make things confusing there are 4" 14's (from the factory) floating around and 6" 15's, although not very many of either.

Target hammers and triggers can be present on either model. There is a decent amount of variation in Smith & Wesson revolvers. I prefer a standard hammer and a "Combat" (smooth faced and narrow) trigger.

[KevH]

Didn't their gunsmiths cut their Model 14s from 6" to 4"?

Yes and no. After LAPD switched from the 14 to the 15 they gave their officers of the option of having department armorers cut the barrels to 4" and re-do the front sight. I've actually seen a few of these and typically wear the Farrant, Hurst or Hogue grips. They actually did a damn good job of cutting the barrels and the except for the roll mark being off center they look pretty good.

[Bushytale]

If there could be only one, it would definitely be a 4 inch Model 19 Blue.

No disrespect to the Combat Masterpiece model 15. My first serious handgun was a 19-3 4" Combat Magnum purchased in 1970.
In 1972 I bought a 4" blue Combat Masterpiece for my Dad. Up until that time he had been carrying a 6" H&R Sportsman .22 while fishing and camping. A couple of years later he wanted a stainless gun and I got him a model 64 4" tapered barrel. He gave me back the model 15. Over the years I stupidly traded off all my revolvers except a model 60.
I recently bought a nice shooter grade model 15 at a local gun show.

[peterb]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

Target wadcutters for a mild range load that puches nice clean holes in paper.

I've had good luck so far with the Precision Delta remanufactured version.

[revchuck38]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

Carry load for my 4" .38s is Remington's 158 grain LSWC-HP (https://www.targetsportsusa.com/remington-htp-38-special-ammo-p-158-grain-lead-hollow-point-rtp38s12-p-4097.aspx). Practice load is a handload with either a generic 158 grain RNL or Berry's plated 158 grain RN at 800-830 fps. Since the 67 has adjustable sights, this Speer load (https://www.streichers.com/cci-speer-38-special-135-grain-p-short-barrel-gold-dot-duty-ammunition) would be worth looking into for a carry load.

[GJM]

Carry load for my 4" .38s is Remington's 158 grain LSWC-HP (https://www.targetsportsusa.com/remington-htp-38-special-ammo-p-158-grain-lead-hollow-point-rtp38s12-p-4097.aspx). Practice load is a handload with either a generic 158 grain RNL or Berry's plated 158 grain RN at 800-830 fps. Since the 67 has adjustable sights, this Speer load (https://www.streichers.com/cci-speer-38-special-135-grain-p-short-barrel-gold-dot-duty-ammunition) would be worth looking into for a carry load.

Is the potential for expansion with the Speer more attractive than pretty sure penetration with the LSWC?

[revchuck38]

Is the potential for expansion with the Speer more attractive than pretty sure penetration with the LSWC?

I've read that it is, though the Remington LSWC-HP has a good reputation for expansion. IIRC, @DaggaBoy uses the Speer load for carry and the 130 grain generic FMJ load for practice due to a common POI.

[Dagga Boy]

I've read that it is, though the Remington LSWC-HP has a good reputation for expansion. IIRC, @DaggaBoy uses the Speer load for carry and the 130 grain generic FMJ load for practice due to a common POI.

There is nothing wrong with the 158 LSWC-HP load, I am just done dealing with lead. I think I am traumatized from dealing with the dirtiest lead training ammunition ever devised that we used for years at the PD.

[Stephanie B]

Target wadcutters for a mild range load that puches nice clean holes in paper.

I've had good luck so far with the Precision Delta remanufactured version.

They're good rounds. I bought a case when they had their 25% off+ free shipping sale and now, I kind of wish I'd bought two.

[Stephanie B]

Carry load for my 4" .38s is Remington's 158 grain LSWC-HP (https://www.targetsportsusa.com/remington-htp-38-special-ammo-p-158-grain-lead-hollow-point-rtp38s12-p-4097.aspx). Practice load is a handload with either a generic 158 grain RNL or Berry's plated 158 grain RN at 800-830 fps. Since the 67 has adjustable sights, this Speer load (https://www.streichers.com/cci-speer-38-special-135-grain-p-short-barrel-gold-dot-duty-ammunition) would be worth looking into for a carry load.

Winchester Ranger +P seems to test out OK, too.

[SamAdams]

For carry? The old FBI / Chicago PD load - 158 grain Lead SWC Hollow Point +P.

It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’, but I don’t imagine they’d harmlessly bounce off a bad guy, either.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Lester Polfus]

It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’, but I don’t imagine they’d harmlessly bounce off a bad guy, either.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

From what I remember, they do pretty good in bare gel testing. It's the intermediate barriers like auto glass and sheet metal that the modern, barrier blind projectiles really shine.

[LtDave]

It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’, but I don’t imagine they’d harmlessly bounce off a bad guy, either.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Ask and you shall receive:

https://www.luckygunner.com/labs/revolver-ballistics-test/#38spl

Significant difference out of 2" and 4" barrels for Remington and Winchester versions. Federal was about the same (lack of) expansion.

[revchuck38]

It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’, but I don’t imagine they’d harmlessly bounce off a bad guy, either.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Lucky Gunner did a pretty extensive test of .38 and .357 ammo. While a lot of folks don't have much faith in their expansion data, they did supply chrono data. The following is from a 4" Ruger GP-100:

Federal: 892 fps, .35" expansion
Remington: 921 fps, .56"
Winchester: 839 fps, .51"

The overview is here (https://www.luckygunner.com/labs/revolver-ballistics-test/), and has imbedded links to the results for each load they tested.

ETA: Looks like Lt Dave was typing at the same time I was.

[1986s4]

I (with Dad's support) bought one in 1973 with money I made delivering newspapers, I think it was $93 (We would typically get big tips at Christmas time, one dude gave me five bucks and I remember it like it was yesterday). It was taken in a burglary and while I sometimes think I wish I still had ever car, gun or motorcycle I ever traded away, if I could pick one to get back it would be the M-15.

With dad's support and my money I bought the 15's .22 twin; the model 18. I am lucky enough to still own it.

[KevH]

I don't want to turn this into an ammo debate, but the 158gr +P LSWCHP (especially loaded to 1970's spec) was a "proven" round. This was a 1970's and 1980's round. It sounds like the modern factory version of that load has been watered down a bit.

Before the 1970's, the 200gr Super Police cartridge was pretty darn popular. My understanding is it worked well against people and dogs, but not so great through auto glass and other barriers.

Believe it or not a lot of guys carried handloads back in 1950's and 1960's (especially at my department). If they didn't hanldoad themselves they knew someone who did and a six pack or bottle of Jack went a long way for payment. The 148 gr wadcutter over 3.5 grains of Bullseye was a pretty popular load.

[Duelist]

It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’, but I don’t imagine they’d harmlessly bounce off a bad guy, either.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Agreed.

.38 Special isn't exactly a squirrel round.

[Totem Polar]

Let's be honest. If you don't like K-frames to the point it defies logic you're just doing it wrong.

This. K-frames are the symphony orchestra of the handgun world: outdated and overly complex, but still powerful, refined, and standing the test of time for a quaint evening’s outing.


What kind of holsters did those of you who carried revolvers use? What about reloads ?

Back in the day, the hot CC option was a strong side leather IWB along the lines of a Sparks Summer Special. Mine is a leather arsenal by Elmer MacEvoy. Reloads were (and remain) HKS speedloaders, either in andrews leather split belt snap pouches, or just a right hand jacket pocket.


I am going JM GEORGE. :p

If I get a chance to dig into the safe, I’ll send you a pic of my tuned NY-1 4" K-frame nestled in your new-school AIWB rig. Like those outreach programs putting classical music groups into non-traditional venues like breweries, wine bars, and rock clubs, the mash-up doesn’t suck. ;)



Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?


For carry? The old FBI / Chicago PD load - 158 grain Lead SWC Hollow Point +P.


It would be interesting to see gel testing of that old standard load out of 4” barrel police service style revolvers. Some say most current versions run slower than those ‘in the day’. How is this FBI (or ‘Chicago’ etc) load for SD use out of a 4” barrel revolver ? They may not be ‘modern’...

I have a lot of the old “FBI” load stashed away from back in the day (Federal and Remington). That said, the late 80’s eraly 90’s hotness (literally) was the “RCMP” load: the same LSWCHP driven to roughly 1000fps from 4 inches. I used to go through a lot of the old Cor-Bon version of this load back when A) I only owned one handgun (the 4" NY-1 that I took top shot at LFI in 1994 or 95 with) and B) the common tactical gun game of the day was bowling pin shooting. That LSWCHP at 1k fps will take pins off, if you hit the center. They also flatten out to resonable facsimilies of a nickle; flatter than 3-day old pints of beer combined with pancakes from Kansas.

Buffalo bore, of course, makes a totally over-the-top version of this load that has a copper gas check under the slug to keep things clean, if not a bit insane. Truthfully, I wish it was loaded just a bit milder to match what I understand to be the original RCMP spec.

For practice, i’ve had good luck with both Georgia Arms "canned heat" 158gr plated SWC, as well as Freedom Munitions version of the same thing, new and reman, as available.

FWIW.

[SamAdams]

During the last Great American Ammo Shortage, the popular factory semi auto defensive ammunition quickly emptied from the local shelves. (As did .22LR). - - What never disappeared was 38 Special lead loads or .30-30 Win. IMO the ole 4” barrel K frame and .30-30 lever gun isn’t completely useless, even nowadays.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[drjaydvm]

I’ve always loved the look and feel of the 2 inch model 15. So much so I added a 4 inch model 67. 160g LSWCHP hand loads run about 850fps out of the snubbie https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171206/bcf64b62879ffeb219fa55fb5ca64cc3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171206/469e47c14bdcc822c003cc1b31a04db8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171206/3716df2ad0efb98f970561ee6a1abd63.jpg

[Joe in PNG]

Meanwhile, Summit has a M-14 for $445. (http://summitgunbroker.com/s-w-14-k38.html)

[oregon45]

I got inspired by this thread and just couldn't pass up this 15-3 at a local Cabelas:

https://i.imgur.com/4wQSUDS.jpg

It's got some wear but it's all honest, and it's clean and smooth where it counts. Very nice DA action and the balance is just about perfect.

[peterb]

I got inspired by this thread and just couldn't pass up this 15-3 at a local Cabelas:

https://i.imgur.com/4wQSUDS.jpg

It's got some wear but it's all honest, and it's clean and smooth where it counts. Very nice DA action and the balance is just about perfect.

Congratulations!

I suspect it'll bring you a lot of enjoyment. :)

[revchuck38]

Got the four inch 67 on GB as well. What load do you guys like with the 67?

This is what the M67 and Spegel grips look like together. It's dirty because I just shot the Revolver Super test with it.

https://i.imgur.com/epL50Xh.jpg

[Sherman A. House DDS]

This is what the M67 and Spegel grips look like together. It's dirty because I just shot the Revolver Super test with it.

https://i.imgur.com/epL50Xh.jpg

Wow! What’re the Spegels made out of?


civiliandefender.com

[revchuck38]

Wow! What’re the Spegels made out of?


civiliandefender.com

These are the only set I bought from someone, rather than ordered from Spegel. I think they're cocobolo. The ones I ordered are smooth cocobolo with no finger groove thingy.

[deputyG23]

I got inspired by this thread and just couldn't pass up this 15-3 at a local Cabelas:

https://i.imgur.com/4wQSUDS.jpg

It's got some wear but it's all honest, and it's clean and smooth where it counts. Very nice DA action and the balance is just about perfect.

That gun with its original stocks is begging for a Tyler T-grip adapter. My local Cabela’s has one with laser grips installed for $599. It has been there about a year. I expect them to start reducing the price soon.

[TiroFijo]

I remember baaack in the day when I was a broke student, I went to the range with a friend that had an almost new, good looking and exceptionally smooth and good shooting S&W 4" revolver in 38 spl that had adjustable sights (I didn't even know what a M15 was at the time), and he didn't value it much because it was "just a 38" and not the Hammer of Thor 357 mag.

I still kick myself for not buying it from him... :(

[MDFA]

This is my Model 15 Combat Masterpiece. My wife gave it to me for our first Christmas together. I had told her that they were my first issued sidearms in both the Air Force and my Department at the time. I put the Ahrends Grips on it. It's incredibly accurate and in great shape for it's age. I need to take it out of the safe and shoot it more often. I need to find a 2in. Model 15 to go with it.
39911

[HCM]

Wow! What’re the Spegels made out of?


civiliandefender.com

Unobtainium. ;-)

[Hizzie]

Unobtainium. ;-)

They really aren’t that expensive from Craig. It’s the 2-3 year wait that’s the problem. People pay up to 4x the cost for “right now” satisfaction from the secondary market.

[Pistol Pete 10]

It's odd. There are so many "better" options out there. I started my LE career in the post-revolver era. Sure, there were still a few gray-haired guys carrying Model 19's, Pythons, and some other odd stuff, but they were all about to retire. Revolvers in my era have all had 5 shots and were kept in a pocket or on a vest as a backup. The "gun guys" at my department all carried Model 25's in 45 Colt and other N frames or Colt Pythons. No one voluntarily, to my knowledge, carried the lowly 38 Special.

I've carried quite a few different guns in my career and have shot and handled a whole hell of a lot more. Yet there is one that has always felt perfect to me in every regard possible. I remember picking one up for the first time. It was an old late 1950's one with diamond Magna grips. It had a terrible department property engraving on the frame and had been used to shoot blanks for the past twenty years. Yet picking it up, holding it in my hand, and feeling the action, just something about it felt...well...perfect.

No matter what gun I come across, no matter how expensive or rare, one always will feel best in my hand and makes me feel armed. What is it? A Python? An N frame? A Performance Center 686? None of these.

The perfect gun in my hand is and always will be the Combat Masterpiece.

I can't explain it. I don't even own one at the moment. I could wear one today on duty with a couple speed loaders and the old FBI load today and feel completely armed. Every time I pick one up (and I've handled and shot plenty) I get a warm feeling. Perhaps I need to find a nice one to make my own.

It din't get no better than a model 15 or 19! There ain't really a lot of better choices than these two.

[Pistol Pete 10]

It's odd. There are so many "better" options out there. I started my LE career in the post-revolver era. Sure, there were still a few gray-haired guys carrying Model 19's, Pythons, and some other odd stuff, but they were all about to retire. Revolvers in my era have all had 5 shots and were kept in a pocket or on a vest as a backup. The "gun guys" at my department all carried Model 25's in 45 Colt and other N frames or Colt Pythons. No one voluntarily, to my knowledge, carried the lowly 38 Special.

I've carried quite a few different guns in my career and have shot and handled a whole hell of a lot more. Yet there is one that has always felt perfect to me in every regard possible. I remember picking one up for the first time. It was an old late 1950's one with diamond Magna grips. It had a terrible department property engraving on the frame and had been used to shoot blanks for the past twenty years. Yet picking it up, holding it in my hand, and feeling the action, just something about it felt...well...perfect.

No matter what gun I come across, no matter how expensive or rare, one always will feel best in my hand and makes me feel armed. What is it? A Python? An N frame? A Performance Center 686? None of these.

The perfect gun in my hand is and always will be the Combat Masterpiece.

I can't explain it. I don't even own one at the moment. I could wear one today on duty with a couple speed loaders and the old FBI load today and feel completely armed. Every time I pick one up (and I've handled and shot plenty) I get a warm feeling. Perhaps I need to find a nice one to make my own.

It don't get no better than a model 15 or 19! There ain't really a lot of better choices than these two. I guess a Commander pistol comes close to being as good but still #3.

[Dave T]

Guess I missed the K-frame gene when they were handing out preferences. When I had to first consider DA revolvers as a rookie in the academy most of my fellow class mates chose the M-19. Only one guy bought a Python but there were several of us who ended up with M-28s. I was in a mixed class (both PD and Sheriff's Dept) and all the PD guys were issued M-15s. On the range I was never impressed by them any more than I was by the M-19s my fellow deputies were carrying.

The only K-frame I owned for any length of time was a M-14 I used when I started shooting NRA PPC competition. After the first season I had a bull barrel and a Bo-Mar rib installed for the next season. After two years shooting the K-frame I decided to devote more of my time and energy to the new game of IPSC and eventually traded off the M-14 Bull gun.

I'm not knocking the M-15. I had a friend on the PD who fondly remembered his days carrying an issue M-15. Of course surviving his OIS with it probably endeared it to him considerable. (smile)

Dave

[theJanitor]

Without starting a new thread, can anyone determine the year this 19 was built?

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190709/c6009c554bd6ab1735592ad793eedefd.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[TheNewbie]

Was there an advantage of the 15 over the 19?


I’m guessing price was one thing.

[feudist]

Was there an advantage of the 15 over the 19?


I’m guessing price was one thing.

The 15 was .38 spl.

[Inspector71]

This is my Model 15 Combat Masterpiece. My wife gave it to me for our first Christmas together. I had told her that they were my first issued sidearms in both the Air Force and my Department at the time. I put the Ahrends Grips on it. It's incredibly accurate and in great shape for it's age. I need to take it out of the safe and shoot it more often. I need to find a 2in. Model 15 to go with it.
39911

Me too. USAF SP/LE (1979-82). Then, DOD Police (1983-89). Both times issued the model 15. Really liked the gun, but the “ball” ammo was iffy. It was a great penetrator round.

[Zeke38]

Having come of age as a policeman with the Model 15 maybe I can shed some light on the history of the 15/19 use for police work.

Most municipal agencies issued the 38 Special, the majority were Smith Model 10s or Colt Official Police. Progressive municipal agencies would issue the Model 15, especially west coast agencies. My first Model 15 was assigned to me by Uncle Sam in 1965. USAF.

County Sheriffs and Highway Patrol saw a lot of Smith 19s and 28s as agency issue. Colts were not popular in the west with a lot of agencies due to cost. Think Sig 200 series vs. Glock.

A lot of cops I knew had a few Smiths personally owned, K frames, N and J frames. Model 14s or AKA K-38. These were stock and used as competition guns.

I just purchased a Model15-3 LNIB and it is a sweetie. Easy to shoot, very accurate and easy to hit targets with.

An FBI agent showed up to one of our regional shoots in the 80s and shot the PPC with his issue Model 15 4". He shot a 582/600 that day on the old 50 yd PPC and took home the gold.

Love mine, hope this answers some questions.

[perlslacker]

The 2" Model 15 "Combat Masterpiece" was my first issued firearm when I began my LE career in the early 80's. (The 5 shot model 36 was my off duty.)

This image I found online brings back decades old memories...

22052

this photo gave me an erection

mods, don't @ me

[blues]

this photo gave me an erection

mods, don't @ me

That wasn't mine in the image but it was exactly like my issued 2" Model 15 which I carried for about four years.

Had I know it was going to elicit the reaction, I'd have posted a line drawing. ;)

[Dagga Boy]

this photo gave me an erection

mods, don't @ me

So I should not post mine with Spegel grips or my other one with Stags.....

[Malamute]

Ignore the preverts, some of us can appreciate a fine firearm without it getting weird.

[HCM]

Ignore the preverts, some of us can appreciate a fine firearm without it getting weird.

The thread title is My strange love of the combat masterpiece.

Fetishism is implied.

[Half Moon]

Without starting a new thread, can anyone determine the year this 19 was built?

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190709/c6009c554bd6ab1735592ad793eedefd.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This might help:

https://m.facebook.com/SmithWessonMpRevolverModel10/posts/471257209590018

[Malamute]

The thread title is My strange love of the combat masterpiece.

Fetishism is implied.

I somehow missed the guns and sexual connection in life. My take on the title was it was perhaps strange when it could have been a love for Smith 19s. :)

[HCM]

I somehow missed the guns and sexual connection in life. My take on the title was it was perhaps strange when it could have been a love for Smith 19s. :)

I spent several years working on a sex offender task force in the SF Bay Area. Fetishizing firearms doesn’t even rank on the “why daddy drinks” scale of weirdness.

[Totem Polar]

I spent several years working on a sex offender task force in the SF Bay Area. Fetishizing firearms doesn’t even rank on the “why daddy drinks” scale of weirdness.

There has got to be some war stories to dish out in LE or the roll call thread. Don’t hold out on us.

[HCM]

There has got to be some war stories to dish out in LE or the roll call thread. Don’t hold out on us.

Maybe when I retire.

[blues]

There has got to be some war stories to dish out in LE or the roll call thread. Don’t hold out on us.

I had limited experience in that arena and thankfully so. I can think of one situation that was somewhat humorous, if skeevy, but I still wanted to do violence to the perp in that case. (I didn't.)

The guys in my old outfit that worked those matters had my respect...and sympathy.

[HCM]

I had limited experience in that arena and thankfully so. I can think of one situation that was somewhat humorous, if skeevy, but I still wanted to do violence to the perp in that case. (I didn't.)

The guys in my old outfit that worked those matters had my respect...and sympathy.

The term we used was “hate discipline.”

[Scal]

Without starting a new thread, can anyone determine the year this 19 was built?

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190709/c6009c554bd6ab1735592ad793eedefd.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

If that’s a 5 digit serial number with a K prefix, it doesn’t make sense. They were on 6 digit serial numbers in the 231xxx range when the pre- model 19 was introduced in 1955.

[Half Moon]

If that’s a 5 digit serial number with a K prefix, it doesn’t make sense. They were on 6 digit serial numbers in the 231xxx range when the pre- model 19 was introduced in 1955.

I tried to post a link to a serial number chart earlier but it's still pending approval. My guess is the 6 is part of the serial number which puts it around 1974. If the 6 isn't part of the serial then it predates the Combat Magnum / Model 19 existing and the label makes no sense at all.

[serialsolver]

If that’s a 5 digit serial number with a K prefix, it doesn’t make sense. They were on 6 digit serial numbers in the 231xxx range when the pre- model 19 was introduced in 1955.

I think that is 1974, based on a serial # of 6k231xxx.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[theJanitor]

I think that is 1974, based on a serial # of 6k231xxx.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

my birth year :cool:

[blues]

my birth year :cool:


My college graduation year. I hope for your sake...nah...

Son? Is that you?


:p

[theJanitor]

My college graduation year. I hope for your sake...nah...

Son? Is that you?


:p

DAD? I knew my affinity for knives was a sign from the universe!

[serialsolver]

I think that is 1974, based on a serial # of 6k231xxx.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I looked up 6k52361 in a quick reference I use when “shopping”.

I just looked in the standard catalog of smith & Wesson which confirmed, 1974.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Gun Nerd]

Having come of age as a policeman with the Model 15 maybe I can shed some light on the history of the 15/19 use for police work.

Most municipal agencies issued the 38 Special, the majority were Smith Model 10s or Colt Official Police. Progressive municipal agencies would issue the Model 15, especially west coast agencies. My first Model 15 was assigned to me by Uncle Sam in 1965.

A cousin of mine went to his police academy in probably the early ‘80s. He had to choose between a Model 10 and Model 15. He didn’t know much so he asked the instructor to help him pick. The instructor asked, “Do you bump into things a lot?”

“Yes,” replied my cousin.

“Then go with the Model 10.”

[perlslacker]

Ignore the preverts, some of us can appreciate a fine firearm without it getting weird.

sorry to hear about your sense of humor, guy.

[Malamute]

sorry to hear about your sense of humor, guy.

It aint easy being me.

[Bigghoss]

Ignore the preverts, some of us can appreciate a fine firearm without it getting weird.

What's a prevert? Are we pre-pervert or are you comparing us to French poets?

And how dare you not get turned on by S&W revolvers. What are you, a commie?

[Malamute]

What's a prevert? Are we pre-pervert or are you comparing us to French poets?

And how dare you not get turned on by S&W revolvers. What are you, a commie?

I like them very much. I always thought people were joking about getting turned on by guns, then,... I started to wonder if they were joking, then decided some may not be.

I think prevert was an Archie Bunker word.

[perlslacker]

It aint easy being me.

XD


What's a prevert? Are we pre-pervert or are you comparing us to French poets?

And how dare you not get turned on by S&W revolvers. What are you, a commie?

it’s a Dr Strangelove reference

https://youtu.be/DUAK7t3Lf8s

[Bigghoss]

I like them very much.

Not enough you dirty red.

[HCM]

XD



it’s a Dr Strangelove reference

https://youtu.be/DUAK7t3Lf8s

“You don’t think I’d go into combat with loose change in my pocket do ya ?”


https://youtu.be/DUAK7t3Lf8s

[Malamute]

^^^ OK, that was funny!


I dont believe Ive ever seen that film.

[blues]

^^^ OK, that was funny!


I dont believe Ive ever seen that film.

You must.

[Stephanie B]

I dont believe Ive ever seen that film.

How can anybody not have seen Dr. Strangelove?

[Bigghoss]

How can anybody not have seen Dr. Strangelove?

The same way I haven't seen Starwars or Birdbox.

[HCM]

The same way I haven't seen Starwars or Birdbox.

Dr. Strangelove and bird box do not belong in the same sentence. Slap yourself.

[Bigghoss]

Dr. Strangelove and bird box do not belong in the same sentence. Slap yourself.

If I'm listing movies I haven't seen they do.

[Stephanie B]

The same way I haven't seen Starwars or Birdbox.

Heresy. Wash your mouth out with something 120 proof.

[Bigghoss]

Heresy. Wash your mouth out with something 120 proof.

It's heresy to have not seen Birdbox?

[Stephanie B]

It's heresy to have not seen Birdbox?


no, it's heresy to mention those movies in the same sentence, nay, paragraph as Dr. Strangelove.

[Bigghoss]

no, it's heresy to mention those movies in the same sentence, nay, paragraph as Dr. Strangelove.

See post #140.

[Dave T]

I liked this better when we were still talking about M-15s, and I'm not even a fan. (LOL)

Dave

[Trooper224]

Every collection needs a Combat Masterpiece and I feel inadequate that mine does not.

[Stephanie B]

Every collection needs a Combat Masterpiece and I feel inadequate that mine does not.

Be cheaper to buy a Model 15 than it would be to see a shrink.

[jtcarm]

I liked this better when we were still talking about M-15s, and I'm not even a fan. (LOL)

Dave

I’ll get this thread back on track if it hairlips ever’one on Bear Lake.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190714/fc92040edcdfdf122a28ce5e5cdd48e7.jpg

[Rex G]

I am partial to the seemingly rare 2” version. I used to see these offered for sale, locally, on the pre-owned market, but it now seems to have been quite a while. (I do not browse Gunbroker, much preferring to handle before buying.)

[Lester Polfus]

Not enough you dirty red.


The same way I haven't seen Starwars or Birdbox.


Dr. Strangelove and bird box do not belong in the same sentence. Slap yourself.


Heresy. Wash your mouth out with something 120 proof.

You can't fight in here! It's the war room!

[Joe in PNG]

Here's mine:
40126

[jtcarm]

Here's mine:
40126

I love the look of the old speed hammer.

[perlslacker]

Ignore the preverts, some of us can appreciate a fine firearm without it getting weird.


I’ll get this thread back on track if it hairlips ever’one on Bear Lake.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190714/fc92040edcdfdf122a28ce5e5cdd48e7.jpg

I've never seen anything that needs a T-grip more badly than this revovler.

[jtcarm]

I've never seen anything that needs a T-grip more badly than this revovler.

I’ve only shot it once. At $360 I just couldn’t pass it up. I figure every safe needs a Model 15 in it.

My strange love is for the Model 66.

[03RN]

I’ve only shot it once. At $360 I just couldn’t pass it up. I figure every safe needs a Model 15 in it.

My strange love is for the Model 66.

Nice price. My wife's nickle M15 has such a nice trigger.

Either a t grip or ahrends would make that a much more comfortable shooter. At least for me.

[SeriousStudent]

I am partial to the seemingly rare 2” version. I used to see these offered for sale, locally, on the pre-owned market, but it now seems to have been quite a while. (I do not browse Gunbroker, much preferring to handle before buying.)

I have a 2", a 4", and a 6" Model 15. The 4" has a set of Herrett's, the 2" has factory stocks with a T-Grip, and the 6" has a nice old set of Ahrends.

Mr Dobbs calls them my cheater guns. They are quite enjoyable.

[Gary1911A1]

I have a 2", a 4", and a 6" Model 15. The 4" has a set of Herrett's, the 2" has factory stocks with a T-Grip, and the 6" has a nice old set of Ahrends.

Mr Dobbs calls them my cheater guns. They are quite enjoyable.

I'm curious. Is there any difference between the Model 14 also known as the K-38 and a 6" Model 15 like different front sights?

[Ivantheterrible]

Picked up this sweet, but well used, late 50's vintage:

40214

[wlktheduk]

I'm curious. Is there any difference between the Model 14 also known as the K-38 and a 6" Model 15 like different front sights?

Per 3rd edition of Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Supica & Nahas: Model 15, The K-38 Combat Masterpiece
"Originally offered with a 4" pinned barrel, and then offered with a 2" pinned barrel...later offered in 1986 with a 6" or 8 3/8" barrel, all of which were machined with a narrow rib on the barrel"

So the primary difference between a Model 14 with a 6" barrel and a Model 15 with a 6" barrel was the width of the barrel rib.

The standard front sights were also different
The front sight of a Model 15 was the Baughman Quick Draw front sight on a plain ramp.
The front sight of a Model 14 was a Patridge front sight (1/10" or 1/8" wide)
S&W offered a variety of custom front sights, but these were the standards per the catalog

FYI: the Model 15 with 6" barrel (and 8 3/8") was introduced in 1986 (Model 15-5)
Engineering change to Model 15-6 in 1988 (same time that the 8 3/8" and 2" barrel were discontinued)
The Model 15 with 6" barrel was discontinued in 1992, a short production run compared to the Model 14

[okie john]

Per 3rd edition of Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Supica & Nahas: Model 15, The K-38 Combat Masterpiece
"Originally offered with a 4" pinned barrel, and then offered with a 2" pinned barrel...later offered in 1986 with a 6" or 8 3/8" barrel, all of which were machined with a narrow rib on the barrel"

So the primary difference between a Model 14 with a 6" barrel and a Model 15 with a 6" barrel was the width of the barrel rib.

The standard front sights were also different
The front sight of a Model 15 was the Baughman Quick Draw front sight on a plain ramp.
The front sight of a Model 14 was a Patridge front sight (1/10" or 1/8" wide)
S&W offered a variety of custom front sights, but these were the standards per the catalog

FYI: the Model 15 with 6" barrel (and 8 3/8") was introduced in 1986 (Model 15-5)
Engineering change to Model 15-6 in 1988 (same time that the 8 3/8" and 2" barrel were discontinued)
The Model 15 with 6" barrel was discontinued in 1992, a short production run compared to the Model 14

Yes in theory, but as they say on the S&W forum, "Anything is possible with S&W."


Okie John

[wlktheduk]

Yes in theory, but as they say on the S&W forum, "Anything is possible with S&W."


Okie John

Agreed ;)

[Gary1911A1]

Per 3rd edition of Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Supica & Nahas: Model 15, The K-38 Combat Masterpiece
"Originally offered with a 4" pinned barrel, and then offered with a 2" pinned barrel...later offered in 1986 with a 6" or 8 3/8" barrel, all of which were machined with a narrow rib on the barrel"

So the primary difference between a Model 14 with a 6" barrel and a Model 15 with a 6" barrel was the width of the barrel rib.

The standard front sights were also different
The front sight of a Model 15 was the Baughman Quick Draw front sight on a plain ramp.
The front sight of a Model 14 was a Patridge front sight (1/10" or 1/8" wide)
S&W offered a variety of custom front sights, but these were the standards per the catalog

FYI: the Model 15 with 6" barrel (and 8 3/8") was introduced in 1986 (Model 15-5)
Engineering change to Model 15-6 in 1988 (same time that the 8 3/8" and 2" barrel were discontinued)
The Model 15 with 6" barrel was discontinued in 1992, a short production run compared to the Model 14

Thank you Mike!

[SCCY Marshal]

I prefer fixed-sight revolvers and always have. So my personal interest in the Combat Masterpiece is a bit of a mystery, even to me. I think it might be the lines with the stout barrel, platform, and Baughman ramp topper. It looks business and classic. Not the hipster classic but an aesthetic that truly stands the test of time. The gun is slim enough to be a field companion yet heavy enough to really take 38 Special to a nearly decadently smooth experience. Wide hammer and adjustable rear leave one willing to put larger, truly comfortable stocks on the gun as it's not meant for true concealment. And it shoots every bit as well as any other K-frame.

Shooting my stainless variant in an austerity 3 Gun match was more fun than I can describe. Holding a gun that was aptly named something so daring as Combat Masterpiece as I reloaded behind cover to pop back out and lay down six more plates was satisfying to my core. Carrying it to post-match dinner with a good friend had me feeling better dressed than a chewed old model 10, as much as I love those slick marvels of funtional minimalism:

https://i.imgur.com/cbudHfEl.jpg

[revolvergeek]

This is what the M67 and Spegel grips look like together. It's dirty because I just shot the Revolver Super test with it.

https://i.imgur.com/epL50Xh.jpg

Well that picture just cost me money when I come up in his list again... I don't have any of his ebony grips.

[Duelist]

67924

Model 15-4, Ahrends, Safariland basketweave.

[Bart Noir]

I have a precise predilection for the previous owned pre-Model 15 and pre-Model 18, so yes, that makes me a prevert.

- Bart Noir
Whose dad owned that Combat Masterpiece before he even owned Bart

[03RN]

Bump because this was a cool thread to read.
80932

[Sherman A. House DDS]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/84bbd68d4f65da115a0da12e2eb3258e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/f5dd5a3c34c9d920d3b88dc1b62f9d5a.jpg
M15 with Eagle Secret Service Grips. I traded this for some Oral Surgery. I had the grips in my spare box for 15 years, and here’s where they’ll stay.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Bucky]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/84bbd68d4f65da115a0da12e2eb3258e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/f5dd5a3c34c9d920d3b88dc1b62f9d5a.jpg
M15 with Eagle Secret Service Grips. I traded this for some Oral Surgery. I had the grips in my spare box for 15 years, and here’s where they’ll stay.


Since your name has DDS, I’ll assume this is not a euphemism? :p

[Sherman A. House DDS]

Since your name has DDS, I’ll assume this is not a euphemism? :p

Euphemism for what? Danaher Death Squad?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Joe Mac]

My first department-issued handgun, in 1993, was a 4" model 15 that looked like hell but shot like a laser. I never actually carried it on duty during our revolver era -- I had a pair of L-frames, 686 and 586, for duty carry with magnums -- but I would have felt well equipped with that .38, if personal guns weren't an option.

[Stephanie B]

Euphemism for what? Danaher Death Squad?

Dahmer Dietetic Services

[jtcarm]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/84bbd68d4f65da115a0da12e2eb3258e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211205/f5dd5a3c34c9d920d3b88dc1b62f9d5a.jpg
M15 with Eagle Secret Service Grips. I traded this for some Oral Surgery. I had the grips in my spare box for 15 years, and here’s where they’ll stay.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

You do realize that “finding a good Combat Masterpiece is like pulling teeth” is just a figure of speech???

[Bucky]

“Server timeouts” caused dupe post.

[Bucky]

Dupe.

[Bucky]

Euphemism for what? Danaher Death Squad?


The “oral surgery”. :p

Although that’s a fine enough piece that, hey, I wouldn’t judge. :D

[CrazyHorse5.0]

Per 3rd edition of Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Supica & Nahas: Model 15, The K-38 Combat Masterpiece
"Originally offered with a 4" pinned barrel, and then offered with a 2" pinned barrel...later offered in 1986 with a 6" or 8 3/8" barrel, all of which were machined with a narrow rib on the barrel"

So the primary difference between a Model 14 with a 6" barrel and a Model 15 with a 6" barrel was the width of the barrel rib.

The standard front sights were also different
The front sight of a Model 15 was the Baughman Quick Draw front sight on a plain ramp.
The front sight of a Model 14 was a Patridge front sight (1/10" or 1/8" wide)
S&W offered a variety of custom front sights, but these were the standards per the catalog

FYI: the Model 15 with 6" barrel (and 8 3/8") was introduced in 1986 (Model 15-5)
Engineering change to Model 15-6 in 1988 (same time that the 8 3/8" and 2" barrel were discontinued)
The Model 15 with 6" barrel was discontinued in 1992, a short production run compared to the Model 14

I found an 8 3/8" a couple of years ago at my LGS.

https://i.ibb.co/Dg7yTYcP/20210927-194919.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/gMNRZvwF/20250217-055932.jpg

[45dotACP]

I found an 8 3/8" a couple of years ago at my LGS.

https://i.ibb.co/Dg7yTYcP/20210927-194919.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/gMNRZvwF/20250217-055932.jpg

Dude....I would have sprained my shoulder with how fast I'd reach for my wallet.

That gun is sick

[MolonLabe416]

129817129817

My latest Model 15. Carried a lot, shot a little. I’m guessing it was a police issue.

[Cheap Shot]

129817129817

My latest Model 15. Carried a lot, shot a little. I’m guessing it was a police issue.

Love, love, love those grips

[Colt191145lover]

129817129817

My latest Model 15. Carried a lot, shot a little. I’m guessing it was a police issue.

Those both appear to be a K38 Combat Masterpiece (pre model 15) from the early 50s or so with that hammer , finish and overtravel stop. Very nice collection!

[FrankB]

MolonLabe416, That’s a great looking revolver!

[L-2]

Great thread and topic. I'd like to find a 2" Mod. 15 someday, but not actively looking. Maybe I'll go to a gun store later today just because of this thread just to see if any 2" Mod. 15s are for sale. One gun I wish I'd never sold was a 2" Mod. 10 (almost the same as Mod. 15), but "oh well". I didn't think I'd ever use or carry it. At least I've got a 2.5" Mod. 66, however.

Although I'm as old as many of you here, I didn't get into LE until my mid-forties and didn't know much about guns/handguns/model-numbers, etc. I did my 1st qualification with some unknown, blue-steel, S&W revolver which the academy had on hand, but I didn't know the Model-number. In my 2nd qual I used my personally-owned Colt 1911 just so I could have experience with both revolvers and semiautos.

I saw some departments still carrying stainless steel S&W revolvers (probably which were likely 686s in .357). Although I lived and worked mostly in Santa Clara County (a little bit in San Mateo County), near KevH in Contra Costa County, up until my final years, I was always issued a .40; then a 9mm. I heard/believed Contra Costa County was more of a .45ACP county compared to where I worked. In between us in Alameda County, I believe .357SIG had some popularity with its Sheriff's Office. That's my recollection, anyway.

[MolonLabe416]

I have no idea why I typed Model 15. I know it’s a pre-15 Combat Masterpiece.

Thanks for pointing that out.

Old age ain’t for sissies…

[oldtexan]

Exquisitely balanced.......

Years ago, I owned a 65 with 3" heavy barrel, and currently have a 64-5 with 4" HB. I like the somewhat muzzle heavy feel of the 4" HB. Never owned or shot a Combat Masterpiece, though I've handled a 15-2 or -3 with the tapered barrel, and really like its aesthetics.

Owned various Ns with tapered barrels from 3 1/2" to 6 1/2" and thought they felt "whippy" when shot DA at speed. Have a 686+ with 3" barrel that has a muzzle-heavy feel when handling it, but which feels just right when shooting DA at speed.

I know that Smith went to a heavier untapered barrel on the 15-5 and on the 67-5. I've often wondered if the tapered barreled 15/67s would have felt muzzle light when compared to the heavy barrel models when shot DA at speed.

Thoughts?

[CrazyHorse5.0]

Also have a 4" from 1957. It belonged to my friend's dad and was his duty firearm. It's been reblued, which doesn't phase me because it's a great shooter.

https://i.ibb.co/fzf9Nj9t/20210926-114912.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/2mbmNdY/20210916-150027.jpg

[Rodmaker]

You gaggle of enablers done struck again.

I've been following this tread for a while and had mentioned it to my brother. He a nice 15i n a shop in a neighboring town and came and got me and hauled me there ( recent surgery, can't drive yet ). Turned out to be 95% or better 15-2, late 1967 production. Likely one of the last few thousand 15-2s made b4 the 15-3 change over. Will try to post a Pic. The t-grip is one I had in a drawer.


Thanks

[FrankB]

SUPER NICE, Rodmaker!

[Stephanie B]

You gaggle of enablers done struck again.

Don't hate the players... :D

[Rodmaker]

Don't hate the players... :D

My comment was not of condemnation, but of the acceptance of fate.

I've been here long enough to know how the fuse is lit. It was meerely my turn.

Cheers

[randyho]

My comment was not of condemnation, but of the acceptance of fate.
My new saved search on GunBroker identifies with this.

[awp_101]

My comment was not of condemnation, but of the acceptance of fate.

I've been here long enough to know how the fuse is lit. It was meerely my turn.

Cheers


My new saved search on GunBroker identifies with this.

129936

[TDA]

15-7 with a Delta Point, pictured here on a filthy silicone gun cleaning cloth from a long defunct gun store which I should probably throw away.

129947

[Rodmaker]

129936

Not yet.

The 15 was 2 guns down the row from a real nice model 10, 5 inch pencil barrel.

The middle gun was a model 14 6 inch, but a little rough.

Decisions, decisions.

[rainman]

Not yet.

The 15 was 2 guns down the row from a real nice model 10, 5 inch pencil barrel.

The middle gun was a model 14 6 inch, but a little rough.

Decisions, decisions.

I don't think they made a lot of 5" pencil barrel model 10s. You might want to act sooner rather than later.


-Rainman

[rhamre]

I'll m15 post. Spegel k prototypes.

129954

[Zeke38]

Can't wait for that Spegel inspired K frame Sq Butt to be ready. Open backstrap and 1/2" below the bottom of gripframe?

If so I'll need two.

[rhamre]

Can't wait for that Spegel inspired K frame Sq Butt to be ready. Open backstrap and 1/2" below the bottom of gripframe?

If so I'll need two.

Hey thanks. Yeah, this is based on the Spegel Square K Extended Boot, without finger grooves. It's approximately 3/8" below the bottom of the grip frame. It's an open backstrap design.

They are completely modeled after a Spegel. If anyone finds a difference between what we release and Spegel's, please let us know.

[BarryinIN]

I'll m15 post. Spegel k prototypes.

129954

I’m liking that. So are my two 15s and an 18.

[SouthNarc]

Fairly clean Model 14-2 Hanen Special wearing Curtis Harlow stocks in French Walnut.

[revchuck38]

^^^Like!

[awp_101]

Fairly clean Model 14-2 Hanen Special wearing Curtis Harlow stocks in French Walnut.

Those stocks…

https://i.postimg.cc/1zr8H69v/giphy.gif

[FrankB]

@SouthNarc
You always have the nicest stuff! 👍

[BarryinIN]

Fairly clean Model 14-2 Hanen Special wearing Curtis Harlow stocks in French Walnut.

Jiminy freaking' Christmas!

[psalms144.1]

Fairly clean Model 14-2 Hanen Special wearing Curtis Harlow stocks in French Walnut.I'll be in my bunk...

[Chuck Whitlock]

Hey thanks. Yeah, this is based on the Spegel Square K Extended Boot, without finger grooves. It's approximately 3/8" below the bottom of the grip frame. It's an open backstrap design.

They are completely modeled after a Spegel. If anyone finds a difference between what we release and Spegel's, please let us know.

My wife's 4" M64 needs these!

[revchuck38]

Hey thanks. Yeah, this is based on the Spegel Square K Extended Boot, without finger grooves. It's approximately 3/8" below the bottom of the grip frame. It's an open backstrap design.

They are completely modeled after a Spegel. If anyone finds a difference between what we release and Spegel's, please let us know.

I've got three of the wood versions and need at least two more. Quit messing around and get these on your website! :)

[BobM]

I saw a clean looking 4” 67 in a Dayton OH area shop this afternoon. I think it was six or seven hundred.

[jandbj]

Hey thanks. Yeah, this is based on the Spegel Square K Extended Boot, without finger grooves. It's approximately 3/8" below the bottom of the grip frame. It's an open backstrap design.

They are completely modeled after a Spegel. If anyone finds a difference between what we release and Spegel's, please let us know.

I had a chance to try out some of @rhamre Spegel K grips. They’re amazing! Just plain perfect.

[revchuck38]

I had a chance to try out some of @rhamre Spegel K grips. They’re amazing! Just plain perfect.

One of these days, he'll actually have some for sale! :)

[mikey357]

One of these days, he'll actually have some for sale! :)

We can only hope!

[jandbj]

We can only hope!

All good things come to those that wait. It’ll definitely take less time than ordering customs direct from Spegel.