Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece .38 Special, 4-Inch Blued DA/SA Revolver (1975)
This Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece stands out as a 1975-produced K-frame .38 Special with a 4-inch tapered barrel, polished blue finish, and classic adjustable sights. It features the hallmark -3 engineering change and comes in excellent condition, appealing to enthusiasts who value the iconic K-frame service revolver configuration with refined target-style details.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are very minor superficial scratches and blemishes visible under close inspection.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece revolver
The Model 15-3 is the K-38 Combat Masterpiece variant on the K-frame with a square butt and a six-shot fluted cylinder, chambered in .38 Special. This example features the -3 engineering change, identifiable by the rear-sight leaf front screw positioned over the barrel.
Its 4-inch tapered barrel retains the classic service length and includes a serrated rib, short underlug, and a non-shrouded ejector rod. The sighting system combines a ramped, serrated Baughman-style front blade with an S&W micrometer adjustable rear, providing a precise sight picture.
Construction is all carbon steel with a polished blued finish, complemented by a color-case-hardened hammer and trigger. The revolver wears checkered walnut Magna service stocks with S&W medallions (non-diamond), consistent with its era.
Production aligns with the mid-1970s; the 8K serial prefix indicates 1975 manufacture in the USA. Historically, the K-38 Combat Masterpiece pattern saw wide issuance with U.S. Air Force Security Forces, underscoring the platform’s service pedigree.