U.S. Air Force Smith & Wesson S&W Model 15-2 .38 Spl 4″ Revolver 1965 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3025.77
LSB#: 220307KW044
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: U.S.A.F. 15–2, K-38 Combat Masterpiece
Serial Number: K596793
Year of Manufacture: 1965
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single Action and Double Action Swing Out Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The left side of the frame is marked “U.S.A.F.” below the cylinder. The yoke cut is marked with an inspection mark and “K596793 / MOD. / 15-2” while the yoke is marked with inspection marks. The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number “K596793”. The sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks. The side plate has a large S&W logo and the right side of the frame has the four line Marcas Registradas address. The right side of the barrel is marked “38 S. & W. SPECIAL CTG.”. The interior of the right grip panel is stamped “596793”.
Barrel Length: 4” Pinned
Sights / Optics: This revolver is mounted with a serrated ramped front sight fixed to a rise in the solid rib. There is a square notch micrometer click adjustable rear sight screwed to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut manga stocks with S&W medallions and smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons. There are a few light compressions infrequently scattered over the grips. There are some scattered light handling marks. There are a few little marks through the finish. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its metal finish. Some of the edges have thinning and finish loss, the most noticeable is on the muzzle and bottom-front of the frame. There are a few scattered little scuffs that have thinned the finish, marks through the finish, and draglines. There are some infrequent little spots of surface frost, some of the most noticeable are on the trigger guard, hammer, and on the cylinder. There is light handling and standard operational wear. There a thin turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are lightly worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The single action is crisp and the double action is smooth. The cylinder lockup produces light side to side play. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a Smith & Wesson letter.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 15, also called the K-38 Combat Masterpiece, is another classic from Smith. Though firearms development has progressed since the ’60s, the name “Combat Masterpiece” was well earned by this revolver. Often issued by law enforcement agencies in the mid-20th century, this revolver embodies the reliability for which Smith & Wesson is famous. This one was made in 1967 as part of a contract for the Air Force. From 1960 to 1969 the Air Force purchased large quantities of Model 15s in this configuration; 4-inch barrel, square butt with magna stocks, blued finish, target hammer & target trigger. Most were shipped to Warner Robins Air Force Base in Georgia, which is home to the Air Force Logistics Command who manage small arms procurement and maintenance. This one was shipped to Warner Robins AFB in 1965 as a part of a 1200 gun shipment. It comes from the collection of author Kevin Williams, best known for his work on the topic of General Officers Pistols & Clandestine Organization Pistols of WWII. This one looks good and only has a couple of light marks to the finish. If you are seeking a nice revolver to add to your collection the search is over. Please see our photos and good luck!