Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece .38 Special 4 inch Blued DA/SA Revolver (1972) with Box & Manual
This 1972 Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece is a well-preserved, blued K-frame .38 Special with a 4 inch tapered barrel and adjustable sights. It features the correct MOD. 15-3 marking in the crane window, checkered walnut Magna stocks with S&W medallions, and matching serial numbers on the butt and yoke cut (frame). The factory two-piece blue box with matching end label and the S&W instruction manual are included.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver shows minimal handling. The bore presents a bright, reflective finish.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson factory two-piece blue cardboard box with matching end label
- Smith & Wesson revolver instruction manual
Known as the K-38 Combat Masterpiece, the Model 15-3 combines the classic square-butt K-frame with a six-shot fluted cylinder chambered in .38 Special. Its double-action/single-action operation and smooth, case-hardened trigger make it a hallmark service and target revolver of its era.
The 4 inch carbon steel barrel is tapered with a serrated top rib, paired with a ramped, serrated front sight and an adjustable micrometer-style rear sight. This sighting setup supports precise elevation and windage adjustments.
The polished blued finish over carbon steel is complemented by a color case-hardened hammer with a checkered spur, a smooth case-hardened trigger, a knurled ejector-rod tip, and the standard S&W cylinder latch. Checkered walnut Magna stocks with S&W gold medallions complete the period-correct configuration.
Stamped MOD. 15-3 in the crane window, this revolver was manufactured in 1972 in the United States. It carries matching serial numbers on the butt and yoke cut (frame), and the factory box retains the matching model end label. The Model 15 saw wide historical issuance with U.S. Air Force Security Forces, underscoring its proven service pedigree.