Smith & Wesson K-38 Target Masterpiece (Pre-Model 14, Five-Screw) .38 Special, 6 inch, 1949 — Polished Blue, Adjustable Sights
This 1949 Smith & Wesson K-38 Target Masterpiece is a five-screw, post-war K-frame target revolver with classic features and clean condition. It has a 6 inch tapered barrel with a full-length serrated rib, polished blue finish, and factory Magna walnut grips with S&W medallions and diamond around the screw. Matching serial numbers on the butt and cylinder, along with case-hardened hammer and trigger, add to its collector appeal.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor superficial handling marks and small blemishes are present on the exterior. The barrel shows light finish wear.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson K-38 Target Masterpiece revolver
- Factory checkered walnut Magna grips with S&W medallions (diamond around screw)
The K-38 Target Masterpiece is the pre-Model 14 variant built on the K-frame during the five-screw era. This example dates to 1949 and retains hallmark target features including the 6 inch tapered barrel and fine adjustable iron sights.
The sighting system pairs a Patridge-style blade on a ramped front with a micrometer-click adjustable square-notch rear, providing precise elevation and windage control suited for target work.
Its polished blue carbon steel construction covers the frame, cylinder, and barrel, complemented by a case-hardened hammer and trigger. The factory checkered walnut Magna grips with medallions and diamond around the screw present correctly for the period.
Mechanically, it is a double-action/single-action, six-shot .38 Special with a full-length serrated rib on the barrel. Matching serial numbers on the butt and cylinder and assembly numbers in the yoke cut align with typical factory practices of the era.