Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 14, K-38 Masterpiece

Serial Number: K412271

Year of Manufacture: 1960

Caliber: .38 Special

Action Type: 6-Shot, Single And Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder

Barrel Length: 8 3/8"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge style blade on an elevated base. The rear sight is a square notch S&W micrometer rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece custom smooth wood panels with finger grooves. The grips have some light nicks, small scratches and scuffing, most notable on the bottom. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Very Good-plus condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 75% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges. There is wear along each side of the barrel, more notable on the left and most notable at the muzzle on each side. There are scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. There is infrequent very faint surface oxidation. The action shows operational wear including a turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good 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 standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

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, target hammer, target trigger and custom finger-groove grips. 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". This one has a great bore and mechanics, a perfect new range toy for the lucky winner. Please see our photos and good luck!