Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 14-3, The K-38 Masterpiece

Serial Number: 10K1408

Year of Manufacture: 1977

Caliber: .38 Special

Action Type: Single/Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade integral to a raised serrated ramp base pinned to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square-notch leaf in a micrometer-click base that is adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered Goncalo Alves Target stocks with extractor "football" cut and S&W medallions. The grips have only a few scattered small marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly-bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little bit of stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9+ out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few tiny marks. The action shows minor operational wear with an incomplete turn-line on the cylinder, mostly not through the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: This revolver comes in a wood display case with cleaning rod, brush, mop, and grooved alloy-handle screwdriver.

Our Assessment: The K-Frame revolver is one of the most important innovations in Smith & Wesson history and was built specifically to handle the .38 S&W Special cartridge. Since its introduction in 1899, the K-Frame has been a favorite for military and police professionals as well as target shooters and enthusiasts. Today's K-Frame is available in .22 LR, .22 WMR, .357 Magnum and .38 S&W Special. Millions have been produced and they are known to take a lickin' and keep on tickin'. Perhaps the "K" stands for King, because in terms of revolvers that is what the K-Frame is...royalty. For anyone looking for a quality target revolver the gun just about sells itself with an 8 3/8" barrel allowing you to wring every bit of of performance out of the .38 Special cartridge. When it comes to revolvers, Smith & Wessons never seem to disappoint and this is certainly no exception. Smith & Wesson weren't just bragging when they called this model the "Masterpiece". This one has a great bore and mechanics as well as a nice display case, a perfect new range toy or addition to a S&W revolver collection. Please see our photos and good luck!