Smith & Wesson Model 10-5 .38 Special K-Frame Revolver, 6 inch Tapered Pinned Barrel, Blued, 1960s
This Smith & Wesson Model 10-5 is a classic K-frame .38 Special with the 6-inch tapered, pinned barrel and fixed sights associated with this engineering change. Built with polished blue carbon-steel construction, a square-butt frame, and checkered walnut Magna-style grips, it presents in very good condition with an excellent bore. It comes with its factory blue box bearing a matching end label and the original Model 10 instruction sheet, adding appeal for buyers who value complete, period-correct packaging from the late C-prefix era.
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: There are scattered scratches and blemishes on exterior surfaces. There is a distinct patch of pitting on the cylinder. Minor carbon buildup and scorching are present around the forcing cone and on the cylinder face, consistent with normal use.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson blue factory box with matching end label (Model 10-5, 6-inch, blued; C-prefix serial noted on label)
- Smith & Wesson Model 10 instruction sheet (.38 Military & Police Revolver)
The 10-5 engineering change is marked on the yoke cut and is known for its pinned barrel and a 1/8-inch front sight width typical of pre-1982 S&W production. This example follows that pattern with a 6-inch tapered barrel and a short underlug, pairing classic handling with a long sight radius.
It is a double-action/single-action K-frame with a six-shot fluted cylinder, fixed sights, and a polished blued finish. The front sight is a serrated ramp, and the rear is a fixed square-notch cut into the topstrap, providing a simple and durable sight picture.
Controls and small parts reflect period-correct details: a smooth, narrow trigger, a checkered hammer spur, a checkered cylinder release, and a knurled ejector-rod tip. The square-butt frame is fitted with checkered walnut Magna-style grips with S&W medallions, completing the traditional service revolver configuration.
Manufactured in the United States during the 1960s, this revolver sits in the late C-prefix serial range, aligning with the noted features and finish of the era. The included factory box with matching end label and original instruction sheet further support its period presentation.