Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 Combat Masterpiece .38 Special, 4 in, Bright Nickel K-Frame Revolver (1970s)
This Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 Combat Masterpiece is a 1970s-era K-frame revolver with a bright nickel finish confirmed by factory "N" markings. It features a pinned, tapered 4-inch barrel with a serrated rib, adjustable sights, and checkered walnut Target stocks with S&W medallions. The configuration and markings align with period production and the Combat Masterpiece lineage, known for U.S. Air Force M15 service.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are minor and superficial scratches and blemishes present. The rear sight shows rust.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson blue hard plastic case
The 15-3 combines classic K-frame handling with a 4-inch pinned and tapered barrel, a serrated rib, and an ejector-rod shroud. Anti-glare serrations on the topstrap and barrel rib aid sight focus, and the yoke cut is marked "MOD. 15-3" as expected for this revision.
Its bright nickel finish over carbon steel is denoted by an "N" stamp on the cylinder face and an internal N marking, indicating a factory nickel gun. The six-shot, six-flute cylinder, checkered cylinder-release thumbpiece, and knurled ejector-rod tip underscore its period-correct details.
Sighting equipment includes a Baughman-style serrated ramp front and an adjustable micrometer rear sight. The smooth-faced trigger and exposed, wide hammer with a checkered spur provide a clean DA/SA interface consistent with the Combat Masterpiece series.
Stocks are factory S&W K-frame Target stocks in checkered walnut with S&W medallions on a K-frame square-butt profile. Chambered in .38 Special, this full-size revolver reflects the features and build quality associated with the 1970s Combat Masterpiece line and its U.S. Air Force M15 pedigree.