So...I bid on this Revolver...

[entropy]

And won.

More info to follow, but I got my K38 and then some.

Now to preemptively strike and do something for the wife....

Quick! Help!! Lol

[Oldherkpilot]

And won.

More info to follow, but I got my K38 and then some.

Now to preemptively strike and do something for the wife....

Quick! Help!! Lol

If there's not enough room in the doghouse for you and the K38, I can give the Smith a good home.😁

[entropy]

Ha! So far she has taken the news remarkably well. Lol

It’s a 5” Illinois State Police Pre-14. Looking into the exact serial # but it does not appear to be an overrun as the number falls into the correct range and it also has a “Factory Through” modification stamp (1968) on the frame. Arranging payment and shipping first thing this morning.

I need to hunt down some cast wadcutters now. Only thing on the shelf currently is 158gr SWC which are going to have to do in a pinch.

[okie john]

Matt’s Bullets.


Okie John

[entropy]

Gracias.

SnS too. I like their coated stuff.

[Lon]

No pics?

Epic fail. I mean, not even a link to GB/auction? We want to see gun porn, not just read about it.


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[LittleLebowski]

Pics not loading. F5 F5 F5

[entropy]

Sorry...busy night and morning... Also, honestly, I thought that linking an auction was a “posting faux pas” and didn’t want to be “That Guy”.

I’ve always been kinda leery about GB, but it was a Woodlawn Boys item, and folks here (Thank You) seem to think they are beyond solid, so gave it a shot. I have a bit of connection to the ISP, so thought it would scratch several itches at once.

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[Lon]

Sorry...busy night and morning... Also, honestly, I thought that linking an auction was a “posting faux pas” and didn’t want to be “That Guy”.

I’ve always been kinda leery about GB, but it was a Woodlawn Boys item, and folks here (Thank You) seem to think they are beyond solid, so gave it a shot. I have a bit of connection to the ISP, so thought it would scratch several itches at once.

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That’s a beauty.

[tango-papa]

Sorry...busy night and morning... Also, honestly, I thought that linking an auction was a “posting faux pas” and didn’t want to be “That Guy”.

I’ve always been kinda leery about GB, but it was a Woodlawn Boys item, and folks here (Thank You) seem to think they are beyond solid, so gave it a shot. I have a bit of connection to the ISP, so thought it would scratch several itches at once.

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Your winning bid was a great price for that gun - well done.

[MDFA]

Ha! So far she has taken the news remarkably well. Lol

It’s a 5” Illinois State Police Pre-14. Looking into the exact serial # but it does not appear to be an overrun as the number falls into the correct range and it also has a “Factory Through” modification stamp (1968) on the frame. Arranging payment and shipping first thing this morning.

I need to hunt down some cast wadcutters now. Only thing on the shelf currently is 158gr SWC which are going to have to do in a pinch.

Jewelry works with my wife, but I would give it a good home beside my 15-2 and my 66-4 for you.

Nice find, congrats.

[HeavyDuty]

That’s stunning! I’ve always felt that the standard revolver barrel lengths should have been 3” and 5” instead of 4” and 6”. I had no idea 5” 14s existed… something for my bucket list.

[SCCY Marshal]

I could see a 5" model 14 becoming a favorite for hare, squirrel, and turkey. Consider me very jealous.

[RJ]

Now to preemptively strike and do something for the wife....

Quick! Help!! Lol

I've always had luck with Hermes Scarves when I am in the dog house.

[Jim Watson]

I had a 5" M19, courtesy of the local gunsmith, for early days of IDPA. Until they reduced the allowable revolver barrel length to 4" so as to obsolete the then standard 5" M625.

I saw a factory gun at a gun show once.

[DueSpada]

That is so fine looking your wife might just take it away from you.

[entropy]

Your winning bid was a great price for that gun - well done.


I had put a limit on what I had to spend, not necessarily what I thought was reasonable. Honestly, after it popped up on auction I did a bit of research on it and kinda gave up. I was very surprised when I got the “auction ending soon” email and saw the price had only moved about $100. I tossed a bid in the final hours which held until 8min before close. Then that game started. I was going to give it one more “nudge”...then give up. To my astonishment...the clock ran out.

I’m certainly glad I did a hard pass on that 14-2 that came my way a few weeks back. Over the years, I have had a few shots at some ISP marked 39-2s but never had enough desire for one (besides the history and marking) to go thru with it. This was different. I’m awaiting confirmation from a gentleman on another forum who’s checking the serial number for me. Seems that the ISP would order a bunch, then take direct delivery on “bunch (-)” then the others normally got sent to copper supply stores in Springfield and Chicago. The serial numbers of what went where are within a range, but sporadic. Regardless of what I learn, this one is worth the price of a letter I think.

It has what appears to be some minor flecking on the left lower frame and crane. Nothing obnoxious tho. This is good because it’s going to be used and shot like it was built to be. Nothing I own is a safe queen. I got a shipping notice this morning, so now it’s my turn to sit by the window next to the dog...03RN...got any advice? Lol

[entropy]

Just received this email:


Your 5" K-38 with s/n xxxxxx was shipped to the ISP on 10/15/57, one of 230 in this the third shipment, and one of 470 total shipped between July and October 1957.

If I can help further please don't hesitate to call on me.


I’m stoked.

[HeavyDuty]

Gonna get one of these to go with?

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[entropy]

Nope. Already have three that are grown. Got a couple red hats too. I’m good.

🤣


Edit to add:

I bet that’s the Fairgrounds in Springfield. I spent a whole bunch of time down there with my daughter as she was growing up and I swear I recognize that wall...

[HeavyDuty]

Nope. Already have three that are grown. Got a couple red hats too. I’m good.

🤣


Edit to add:

I bet that’s the Fairgrounds in Springfield. I spent a whole bunch of time down there with my daughter as she was growing up and I swear I recognize that wall...

I was thinking more the car…and I bet you’re right. Looks like one of the older show barns.

[rainman]

Congrats on managing to purchase a 'piece of America'! :cool:


-Rainman

[That Guy]

and didn’t want to be “That Guy”.


Ahem.

Also, congratulations on a fine looking revolver!

[JAH 3rd]

Is that revolver NOS? Looks pristine!

[entropy]

Ahem.

Also, congratulations on a fine looking revolver!



Not that there’s anything wrong with that...😁

[CSW]

Ha! So far she has taken the news remarkably well. Lol

It’s a 5” Illinois State Police Pre-14. Looking into the exact serial # but it does not appear to be an overrun as the number falls into the correct range and it also has a “Factory Through” modification stamp (1968) on the frame. Arranging payment and shipping first thing this morning.

I need to hunt down some cast wadcutters now. Only thing on the shelf currently is 158gr SWC which are going to have to do in a pinch.

Berry's 148 HB clad WC's. They work great, and less lead fouling. My 14-0 loves them.

[entropy]

I have some coated wadcutters on the way.

The gun is enroute...via USPS Priority. 😳🙄 Says by Monday.

That probably wouldn’t have been my FIRST choice of shipping but...

[Bruce Cartwright]

Sorry...busy night and morning... Also, honestly, I thought that linking an auction was a “posting faux pas” and didn’t want to be “That Guy”.

I’ve always been kinda leery about GB, but it was a Woodlawn Boys item, and folks here (Thank You) seem to think they are beyond solid, so gave it a shot. I have a bit of connection to the ISP, so thought it would scratch several itches at once.

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Entropy:

That is a gorgeous revolver. In the time frame that gun was made, I believe that combination of features would have been pretty much what any thinking gunman would order in a K Frame 38 Special platform. I have a dear friend who found a similar gun, a factory Model 14, with a nickle finish, red ramp front sight on a factory 5 inch barrel and smooth rose wood factory stocks. I have handled that gun and it is simply stunning. I think the Model 19s eclipsed the concept due to the greater power of the 357 round, but that is a perfect blend of features for a gun built in the mid 50s. Hopefully you shoot it once in a while. Of course a thinking gunfighter in the 50s who had a Model 14 like that, would probably also add an original S&W Model 42, maybe a Pinto version with a nickled cylinder and barrel as a backup/off duty gun. Just sayin'.:)


Great catch on Gun Broker. You did very well. Hopefully you played the lottery the same day....

Bruce

[entropy]

Thanks for the kind and positive words. Nope no lottery. I’ve never owned anything with a 5” barrel, so anxious to see how it feels in the hand. I still can’t believe I pulled it off... Still showing Monday delivery.

[FrankB]

The gun is enroute...via USPS Priority. 😳🙄 Says by Monday.

That probably wouldn’t have been my FIRST choice of shipping but...

I worked for the USPS while in grad school (late 1980’s), and it was a nightmare. I was a permanent temp, and the regular guys were all ornery drunks. Having said that, I had a shotgun delivered to the local range this past Wednesday, via FedEx. It showed as being delivered at 6:20pm, but the guys said FedEx hadn’t been there that day. The range is part of a small industrial park, in a VERY bad neighborhood. They walked out back, and the FedEx guy simply piled the boxes by the rear door! There’s a storefront, a 25 yard range, and an equally large space behind the range. Those firearms could have easily been stolen! Best Wishes! 🥴😁

[Catshooter]

Man did you do good! What a lovely piece of history. I've always loved the five inchers. I agree with the poster who said that 3 & 5 inch should have been standards. Those grips! You did very well, at least in my book and I'm glad your wife isn't killing you over it.

Way to go. Sometimes it's better to be lucky . . .



Cat

[entropy]

Waiting by the window on Sunday for the Post Office was something that even under my current state of “post purchase expectancy” was not going to happen today.

I discovered I really didn’t have anything appropriate to shoot out of it. I have some 158gr/5.4 Unique loads, but those are way too heavy. I have some PPU FMJ as well, but I was worried it would spit it back out of the cylinders if I dare load it in. Fired up the turret press and cranked out 200 158gr SWC over 4.6 Unique. That is more appropriate and plenty for what I want.

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[entropy]

Well the Postman cometh...

I’m pretty happy. The pics don’t do it justice. I have never owned a gun (maybe an older SKB O/U) that has bluing this dark, deep, and rich. I see what the draw is now. It locks up tighter than a drum, an the DA is wonderful. The SA is a bit light, but not knowing better, I’d say that it’s probably typical for the era. I don’t have a trigger gauge sorry. A few wear marks on the barrel, nothing significant. I wish there was a bit more, as I wouldn’t cause me as much guilt when I take it in the woods. It won’t get abused tho certainly, just honest use. I have another set of beater target grips I might install for that, as these are pretty and I’d hate to ding them up.

Next I need to shoot it a bit, hopefully in the next few days. I’ll post what it does. Also need to get some leather. I’m thinking either a Milt Sparks 200AW or an HSR. Suggestions welcome. Thanks for being such a fine group of enablers! I’ve drooled over some of the stuff that’s been posted here over the years, an I still can’t believe the stars aligned on this and I pulled it off...


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[Bruce Cartwright]

Well the Postman cometh...

I’m pretty happy. The pics don’t do it justice. I have never owned a gun (maybe an older SKB O/U) that has bluing this dark, deep, and rich. I see what the draw is now. It locks up tighter than a drum, an the DA is wonderful. The SA is a bit light, but not knowing better, I’d say that it’s probably typical for the era. I don’t have a trigger gauge sorry. A few wear marks on the barrel, nothing significant. I wish there was a bit more, as I wouldn’t cause me as much guilt when I take it in the woods. It won’t get abused tho certainly, just honest use. I have another set of beater target grips I might install for that, as these are pretty and I’d hate to ding them up.

Next I need to shoot it a bit, hopefully in the next few days. I’ll post what it does. Also need to get some leather. I’m thinking either a Milt Sparks 200AW or an HSR. Suggestions welcome. Thanks for being such a fine group of enablers! I’ve drooled over some of the stuff that’s been posted here over the years, an I still can’t believe the stars aligned on this and I pulled it off...


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Entropy:

That is a gorgeous looking revolver. I agree on finding a set of stocks that can be used in lieu of the factory targets. As to holsters, I am a huge fan of Milt Sparks generally and the 200 AW revolver holster in particular. If you have the coin, I suggest ordering the 200 AW with a floral carved pattern in black leather. I have seen a 1AT in black with the floral carving for a 5 inch 1911 that is simply stunning.

Let us know how your K38 shoots. Enjoy!

Bruce

[entropy]

Thank you. I will. Hopefully within the next few days here...

Looking at the Sparks site, I see that they charge at time of shipping and they are working about 6mo. out on orders.

[HeavyDuty]

Thank you. I will. Hopefully within the next few days here...

Looking at the Sparks site, I see that they charge at time of shipping and they are working about 6mo. out on orders.

Eh, a Uncle Mike’s nylon sack will work (ducks.)

That really is a gorgeous revolver, and deserves very special leather. Does Barranti do anything?

[entropy]

Just looked at his site. Much eye candy...

[entropy]

Got to shoot between rain showers today. 15yds. Not bullseye league quality for certain, but it seems to be able to shoot better than me. Perhaps the wadcutters or a different powder will do better. Anyhow, I hope there is a happy Trooper in Valhalla today...

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[okie john]

The SA is a bit light, but not knowing better, I’d say that it’s probably typical for the era.

Check the mainspring strain screw tension. Loosening them was considered an instant trigger job back in the day if you didn't mind the occasional light primer strike. You'll need to pull the grips to see it, but it's the one that sits under your pinky when you shoot. Crank it all the way in.


Okie John

[entropy]

Thanks. Nope, checked that. It’s tight. I think it may be more that I just don’t know what a really nice trigger feels like... Judging by the rest of it, I can’t imagine it was tinkered with.

When I first pulled off the stocks to double check the serial number, I noticed some congealed/hardened oil on the right panel. The gun had obviously spent some time laying on its right side. After shooting it yesterday (about 100rds) and heating it up a bit, there was some oozing onto the same area of the stocks. That, along with the overall “feel” of the action leads me to believe it needs a cleaning. I’m scared to death to attempt to remove the side plate however. The first step is to order some proper screwdrivers from Brownells. I’ll try it on my M28 first, as that has never been cracked open (by me). In the meantime, I’ll just keep shooting it! Any thoughts on just maybe squirting some Kroil into it and letting it sit? Maybe a follow up of some canned air to blow it out?

[HeavyDuty]

Thanks. Nope, checked that. It’s tight. I think it may be more that I just don’t know what a really nice trigger feels like... Judging by the rest of it, I can’t imagine it was tinkered with.

When I first pulled off the stocks to double check the serial number, I noticed some congealed/hardened oil on the right panel. The gun had obviously spent some time laying on its right side. After shooting it yesterday (about 100rds) and heating it up a bit, there was some oozing onto the same area of the stocks. That, along with the overall “feel” of the action leads me to believe it needs a cleaning. I’m scared to death to attempt to remove the side plate however. The first step is to order some proper screwdrivers from Brownells. I’ll try it on my M28 first, as that has never been cracked open (by me). In the meantime, I’ll just keep shooting it! Any thoughts on just maybe squirting some Kroil into it and letting it sit? Maybe a follow up of some canned air to blow it out?

S&W sideplates aren’t anything to be feared, just respected. Hollow ground bits that fit perfectly (even if you have to file ones to fit) and a non mar mallet to jar the sideplate loose are all you need. Never, ever pry! And have lots of patience when you place the side plate back on, you sometimes have to use a fair amount of finesse before it magically seats.

[entropy]

Interestingly enough, the former owner got in touch with me via another forum. Older gent with vision issues who is thinning out his collection. He stated that this was the first time it had been fired in probably 20 years. It was nice for him to post and contact me. I assured him I would be a conscientious caretaker.

A few more rounds thru it yesterday. Dinging 8x10 steel plates at 35yds DA and SA. Trigger is a bit less “gooey” but it still needs a good breakdown and cleaning. Found a used set of Targets and Magnas for it.

[FrankB]

Spray can Rem Oil cleans goop up quickly. I’d take the stocks off, and direct the nozzle all around. A source of canned/compressed air would help to flush out the Rem Oil and (hopefully) the goop.

[Inkwell 41]

What a find. Congratulations.

[Stephanie B]

S&W sideplates aren’t anything to be feared, just respected. Hollow ground bits that fit perfectly (even if you have to file ones to fit) and a non mar mallet to jar the sideplate loose are all you need. Never, ever pry! And have lots of patience when you place the side plate back on, you sometimes have to use a fair amount of finesse before it magically seats.

Most of my fun is positioning the hammer block properly (or remembering to put it in).

Non-mar mallet, a wooden hammer handle, the side of a screwdriver handle (rubber-coated), or a handy chunk of wood. I bought a 10-7 cheap that needed a lot of time with PDBlaster before I could get it off.