S&w k-38

[waco]

i just got a k-38 target masterpiece off gunbroker.
i was hoping that someone might be able to tell me when it was made.
serial # is k8308xx
nice looking 6" with a pinned barrle(not sure what that means)
hope it shoots good! it has a sweet trigger!
thanks guys
waco

[XBT]

I think 1968.

[johnlaw484]

I have one, you'll love it.

[405]

According to Supica, that 14 was made in 1968. Somewhere around 1982 the pinned barrel was dropped from that model until re-design in 1991. The pinned barrel is just one of the many little details collectors glance at when perusing numbers of S&Ws- the pinned barrels are usually more sought after. The same applies to number of screws in sideplate, etc. Bottom line, usually the serial # nails down the DOM. Also, on the crane hinge should be a model number that can be traced to some change to the basic design ... 14, 14-1, 14-2, etc. Nice handguns!

[waco]

thanks guys!
yes, its a 14-2
1968 huh?
6 years older than me!

[dubber123]

I think mine is a '67 vintage, but I will have to check. I can HIGHLY recommend BRP's 360640 PB boolit. It has shot circles around all others in mine to this point. Slug the barrel, not so much to determine the size, but to check for a frame constriction. Mine had one, and accuracy was markedly improved after firelapping.

[Firebricker]

congrat's on a fine revolver ! Other than collecter intrest I've heard the pinned barrel's make changing out barrel's easier. Personally I like the firing pin where it belong's on the hammer IMO.
FB

[JIMinPHX]

Pinned barrels are easy to change or adjust. The hybrid crush-fit barrels that replaced them are not to my liking at all. K frames are a classic. They are one of my all time favorites.