S&W Model 15

[Pecci]

Can anyone tell me what they know about this revolver?  The good, the bad, the history, etc.  Thanks and Happy New Year!

[gunblade]

K frame, 4" tapered barrel, .38 special...adjustable sighted version of the Model 10.   Was the standard issue sidearm of the USAF for many years before the M9...also in a 2" bbl version for aircrew.  Probably also widely used as a police/security service sidearm.   

[LEO]

My very first issue revolver was a nickel plated model 15.  It was extremely accurate, well balanced, and in the case of the one I was issued had a very smooth action.  A lot of people look down at it because it is a 38 but it is a fine handgun.  I have been looking for a reasonable model 67 ( same revolver in stainless) here of late but haven't been able to find one with the tapered barrel at a reasonable price.  The 15 originally had a tapered barrel but later versions had the heavier barrel, this changed the balance of the revolver, some like it some don't.  I doubt you will ever find a better 38 special revolver.

[Hammerdown]

Hello
The Model 15 is the combat issue revolver associated closely with the Target Masterpiece model 14. It has a 4" barrel unlike the Model 14's 6" Barrel, and wears a Baughman front sight rather than the Patridge sight seen on the model 14. They were widely used by Law enforcment, along with many supplied for the Millitary and used as side arms and favored for their shorter 4" barrels and quick draw front sight which allowed a faster draw, over the Longer barreld model 14's. They came either Blued or Nickel and were chambered in the .38 Special cartridge. They were as accurate as thir Longer barreled cousin the model 14 and Possibly the most accurate .38 K-Frame revolver S&W ever made. Most that have had or still have one recognize their glassy smooth actions and inherint accuracy and favor this model for serious target shooting, or as a side arm adding protection of daily carry. Regards, Hammerdown

[Swampman]

I have one that is like new.  It was my father's, and I got it when he passed away.  I love mine.

[Pecci]

Thanks guys!  I have one in good condition, with some bluewear.  My sister is giving me hers, too.  That one looks almost new.  Now my wife and I can have our own. (she gets the older one of course.)    Thanks for all your help.

[Wingman26]

My Grandfather bought me a S&W Model 15 Combat Masterpiece 4" barrel revolver as a gift, I don't remember what year it was, I believe I was about 16 at the time.  This was back in the 60's and it has that beautiful deep shiny blue that S&W was famous for, it is really special to me, not only since it was my first centerfire revolver, but also since my Grandfather bought it for me. 

[shotgunner]

I collect the N frame S&Ws. I bought a real nice 5 screw Combat Masterpiece last year at a very good price. As much as I like the big N frames I find the K frame guns are very easy to shoot. The 38 special will do a lot of what I want to do with a handgun. I left the Magna grips on it with a grip addapter, in a Bianchi Cyclone holster is it easy to carry. Light loads are great for small game and with Federal 158 SWC plus powers I feel very well armed. You get more for your money from a K frame 38 than any gun on the market. Good luck with it and enjoy. By the way, where do I get a sister like that. Shotgunner

[SDS-GEN]

My dad cherrished his "combat masterpiece" it was the pistol he carried many years ago as a cop.  Dad died a few weeks ago, unfortunately my brother is getting his service revolver, He will probably never take it out of its case as my sister in law doesn't even want a gun in the house.  What a crime.