Smith & Wesson Model 15-2 Combat Masterpiece .38 Special 4″ DA/SA Revolver
SOLD FOR: $2,205.00
LSB#: WY250512JW001
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Model 15-2, Combat Masterpiece
Serial Number: K595428
Year of Manufacture: Shipped January 26, 1966
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “.38 S&W SPL.” The left side of the frame has the S&W monogram logo. The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number “K595428”. The left side of the grip frame has inspection stamps. The right sideplate is hand-etched “U.S.A.F.”, denoting United States Air Force issue. The revolver features a Target-sized case-colored hammer and trigger. The trigger is serrated, and the hammer has a wide spur with checkering.
Barrel Length: 4″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an S&W micrometer click adjustable square-notch sight set in a base integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered Goncalo Alves stocks with S&W medallions. There are minor compressions and finish wear from handling and use, but no cracks or chips. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good to Fine condition.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its original blue finish. There is finish thinning on the barrel at the muzzle and cylinder edges, with light holster wear on the frame and trigger guard. The cylinder has a faint drag line. The backstrap shows some edgewear and thinning. Screws are unmarred, and markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up tightly with minimal side-to-side play. The timing is correct on all chambers. The double and single-action trigger pulls are crisp. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Two original factory letters from Smith & Wesson Historian Roy G. Jinks are included. One letter, dated May 21, 1987, confirms the revolver was shipped from the factory on January 26, 1966. A second letter, dated April 26, 1989, states it was sent to Robins Air Force Base in Georgia as one of 2,000 units with a target hammer, target trigger, and blue finish.
Provenance: This revolver comes from the esteemed collection of Kevin Williams, respected firearms historian and author of U.S. General Officer Pistols: A Collector’s Guide. Williams is known for curating exceptional military sidearms with elite provenance, and this Model 15 is no exception.
Our Assessment: This is a desirable and well-documented Smith & Wesson Model 15-2 Combat Masterpiece revolver, manufactured in 1966 and issued to the U.S. Air Force. The included factory letters confirm it was one of a special military contract run of 2,000 revolvers shipped to Robins AFB with target features, and the “U.S.A.F.” hand-engraving further authenticates its military provenance.
The Model 15 was an evolution of the pre-numbered .38 Combat Masterpiece, designed for law enforcement and military use. The target hammer, trigger, and adjustable sights paired with a 4″ barrel made it a favorite for duty and training. These Air Force-issued revolvers are increasingly sought after by both military collectors and Smith & Wesson enthusiasts.
With its verified U.S.A.F. marking, matching factory letters, and distinguished provenance from the Kevin Williams Collection, this revolver is a top-tier collectible for any S&W, military, or Cold War-era collection. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
