Smith & Wesson S&W K-38 Masterpiece Pre-Model 14 .38 Spl 6″ Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1425.89
LSB#: 220115DL001
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: The K-38 Masterpiece, Pre-Model 14
Serial Number: K84090
Year of Manufacture: 1949
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot Double / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right of the barrel is marked “38 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG.”. The barrel flat, butt of the grip, yoke face (no letter prefix), rear face of the cylinder, and ejector (no letter prefix) are marked with the serial number. The sideplate has the monogram logo and the right of the frame has the four-line marcas registradas. The yoke, yoke cut, and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks. The inside of the right grip panel is stamped “84 / 090”.
Barrel Length: 6”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade on a serrated ramped base pinned to the top of the serrated tapered rib. The rear sight is a square notch sight in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation and screw secured in a slot in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut magna stocks with S&W medallions and smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons. There are a few scattered light marks from handling. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent 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 handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There is a little ding on the front sight blade. There are a few little tiny marks through the finish on the barrel, mostly on the bottom towards the muzzle. There is some faint thinning on the edge of the muzzle. There are a few freckles of frost on the left side of the frame below the cylinder. The cylinder has a few faint marks and a faint turn line. The screw heads are sharp to lightly tool marked with usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with light side-to-side play on all chambers. The double-action trigger is smooth and the single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a two-piece box with the correct configuration and matching serial number in grease pencil, mop, and cleaning rod.
Our Assessment: For anyone looking for a quality target revolver, this gun just about sells itself. When it comes to revolvers Smith & Wessons of this era have never disappointed and this is certainly no exception. Smith & Wesson weren’t just bragging when they called this model the “Masterpiece”, the 6″ barrel, adjustable sights, and smooth action all promise to make this a tackdriver. This classic five screw looks phenomenal, it has hardly any wear, a stellar bore, and the action is still spot on, it is still ready to stack dimes over 70 years since it was made and it would make a fine revolver to pass down through the generations. Please see our photos and good luck!