S&W model 14

[rgitzlaff]

I've inherited a model 14-3 38 special. It seems they haven't made this model for a long time now. When it comes to holsters or accessories to fit this, what model should I be looking at? I know this is a k- frame but that is about it. When I look for accessories, the model 14 is not among the drop down choices.

Also, being 38 special, am I able to use moon clips to shoot 9mm ammo in it? I'm brand new to revolvers. Quite experienced with everything else.

[Mike Irwin]

It will fit in any holster for the Models 10/15/19 with identical barrel length.

Absolute holster fit may depend on the barrel profile, so pay attention to that.


"Also, being 38 special, am I able to use moon clips to shoot 9mm ammo in it?"

No.

[natman]

Originally Posted by rgitzlaff

I've inherited a model 14-3 38 special. It seems they haven't made this model for a long time now. When it comes to holsters or accessories to fit this, what model should I be looking at? I know this is a k- frame but that is about it. When I look for accessories, the model 14 is not among the drop down choices.

The Model 14 is a special target variation of the more common Model 15. They usually come with a wide Target trigger, a wide Target hammer, Target grips, an overtravel stop and special Target sights.

There's not much that needs replacing. They are very well made and extremely accurate. Load it with target wadcutter ammo and take it to the range.

What's the barrel length? The most common is 6", with a 8 3/8" variation. There are a few 4" models because the LAPD at one time ordered some, but they are collector's items.

[ligonierbill]

Any S&W model 10 thru 19 is a K-Frame. I have a Model 14 circa 1954. It's the target model, and I've set mine up to shoot wadcutters at modest velocity. SAAMI standard MAP for 38 Special is 17,000 psi (+P 20,000) vs. 9mm Luger at 33,000 psi (+P 35,000).

In my opinion, the Model 14 has the nicest double action trigger ever made.

[natman]

Originally Posted by ligonierbill

In my opinion, the Model 14 has the nicest double action trigger ever made.

I have an 8 3/8" 14 and a 6" Target Masterpiece (the predecessor to the 14). Both have excellent double action pulls, which leads me to believe that the 14 got a bit more attention on the assembly line than a police department bulk order Model 10.

The ironic thing is that when used for its intended purpose, a Model 14 will rarely be fired double action.

[micromontenegro]

The Target Masterpiece (and the 14) is really a masterpiece. One of the best revolvers around, and relatively underappreciated

[Jim Watson]

The ironic thing is that when used for its intended purpose, a Model 14 will rarely be fired double action.

If you say its "intended purpose" is NRA Precision (bullseye) shooting, that is right, they even sold them set up single action only or would sell a SA hammer and trigger replacement kit.
BUT
There are also a lot in PPC where the trend has been double action at all ranges for a long time.
Not to mention some guy name of Jack Weaver.

[natman]

Originally Posted by Jim Watson

If you say its "intended purpose" is NRA Precision (bullseye) shooting, that is right, they even sold them set up single action only or would sell a SA hammer and trigger replacement kit.

That's what I had in mind.

Originally Posted by Jim Watson

BUT
There are also a lot in PPC where the trend has been double action at all ranges for a long time.
Not to mention some guy name of Jack Weaver.

By the time a K frame gets set up for PPC, it's barely a Model 14 anymore. Nor do I believe that's what S&W intended.

[Jim Watson]

PPC Distinguished doesn’t allow much of that stuff.

I shot a Python in Open and Distinguished, pre 686.

[Driftwood Johnson]

The Smith and Wesson Model 14, also known as the K-38 Target Masterpiece, was manufactured in its original configuration from 1947 until 1982. In 1957 when Smith and Wesson changed over to model numbers, the K-38 Target Masterpiece became the Model 14. Standard barrel lengths were 6" and 8 3/8". In 1991 a new version was introduced with a full length underlug under the barrel. This version was only available with a 6" barrel. It was discontinued in 1999.

The term "Masterpiece" was given to Smith and Wesson target revolvers with modern adjustable sights, such as the K-22 Masterpiece, K-32 Masterpiece, and the K-38 Masterpiece. You can see the modern 'click adjustable' rear sight in the photo of the right side of my Model 14-3. Prior to that, S&W target revolvers had rear sights that were only adjustable with a tiny screw driver. The front sight is called a Patridge (not partridge) and was standard on all 6" or 8 3/8" target revolvers. This sight was designed to give a sharp image when viewed from the rear. You can also see the trigger stop just behind the trigger. It is adjustable, but I strongly recommend you do not mess with the trigger stop, they were adjusted at the factory. Trust me on this. The K-38 Masterpiece was was matched in weight with the K-22 Masterpiece and the K-32 Masterpiece.

I bought this Model 14-3 in 2014 for $500, which was a terrific price. This one left the factory in 1974.

Chances are yours looks just like this, unless it has the 8 3/8" barrel. Yes, it will fit in any holster designed for any K frame smith, as long as the holster is correct for the barrel length.










Somebody mentioned the Model 15. This model was also known as the K-38 Combat Masterpiece. Barrel lengths were 4" and 2". 5" barrels were rare. This is a K-38 Combat Masterpiece, the precursor to the Model 15. Other than the shorter barrel, the main difference between this model and the Model 14 is the Baughman Quick Draw front sight, designed to be able to be quickly drawn from a holster without snagging on the leather.

[HighValleyRanch]

My father was a bullseye shooter in the late 1940's and won many medals. His shooting buddy was the famous Bob Chow, a well known gunsmith of the 1950's for his .45 auto's.
My father competed with revolvers and had a few that were single action tuned only.

Later when I got into bullseye shooting, I wanted to try with revolvers as well, so I had a K17 for the .22, 586 for the center fire and 25-2 for the .45 acp (used auto rim).

But the interesting thing is that when I handed my revolver to my father to fondle, he cocked the hammer by rotating his wrist down, like gangster style. and then rotated back vertical for the final aim. I had never seen this type of cocking before, but since he competed with the revolver in all three calibers, I supposed it was an accepted technique. Do any other old timers know of this method of cocking a revolver this way?

In some ways, it makes sense, since it's easier to cock the pistol horizontally then vertically. Just try wiggling your thumb with your hand vertical and then horizontally.

[Drm50]

I’m 75 and actively shooting S&Ws since 14. I have several 14s in 6” and one 83/8”. Newest one I have is one made in 60. I’ve had/ have all the top shelf Colts in 38sp and they don’t quite beat out the K38. On 38 to do that would be the 38/44 Outdoorsman
which is on the N fram.

[jetinteriorguy]

My model 14-3 is what I take to the range when I want to look like I actually know how to shoot. Although my Ruger Mk II Target with the 5” Bull Barrel and worked over trigger will do a little bit better for this.