Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Model 15-3, K-38 Combat Masterpiece, Custom PPC
Serial Number: 8K31857
Year of Manufacture: 1975 / C&R (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 5th Edition)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot Double Action Only, Bobbed Hammer, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Barrel Length: 6", Pinned. Heavy Barrel with Solid (Aristocrat Style Bo-Mar) Rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set between two protective ears, integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch that is click adjustable for windage and elevation and pinned into the rib that cantilevers over the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered wood with finger grooves. The bottom of the front strap has an angle cut. The backstrap has been textured. The front strap is serrated. The checkering is defined. There is some light wear on the peaks. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to Power Custom
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling and storage wear. There are minor scuffs in the polished areas. There is a turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The modified action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with only light side-to-side play on all chambers. The double action is buttery smooth with a light short stroke. 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 with a Power Custom Inc. invoice with a received date of 11-21-1977 and a shipped date of 2-3-1978, several money order receipts from 1977-1978, hex key, and a Don Hume Custom leather holster in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: This Smith & Wesson Model 15-3 K-38 Combat Masterpiece represents a purpose-built evolution of the classic K-frame, upgraded by Power Custom into a dedicated PPC (Police Pistol Combat) competition revolver. The conversion’s bobbed hammer and double-action-only configuration, combined with the heavy 6" barrel and Aristocrat-style rib with fully adjustable rear sight, reflect a serious focus on controlled, repeatable precision work on the PPC course. The result is a revolver that retains the inherent accuracy and balance of the K-frame platform while optimizing it for sustained double-action strings and deliberate target engagement. With a bright 9.5/10 bore, strong mechanical timing, and excellent overall finish retention, it presents as a well-preserved and professionally executed custom build rather than a casual modification.
For the shooter or collector, this piece sits in a desirable niche where factory Smith & Wesson performance meets competition tuning. The smooth, short-stroke double-action and properly executed PPC sighting system make it immediately relevant for bullseye-style shooting or historical PPC match use, while the inclusion of the Don Hume holster and Power Custom documentation adds practical and provenance value. It stands as a refined, range-ready example of mid-1970s K-frame adaptability, appealing to those seeking a proven competition setup or a well-executed custom Smith & Wesson with clear purpose and execution.
