I picked up a model 15-3 last weekend. It has USAF markings and came with a target hammer and trigger (about 95% finish and tight as a new one...maybe tighter). The DA pull is as good as my 19 but the SA is amazing. It also came with the most Godawefull short, square, blocky, wooden grips I've ever had in my hand. I have to hang my fingers off the end of the grip to get my finger pad on the wide part of the trigger. I don't plan on changing the trigger.....so any ideas on the type of grip that would help allign my trigger finger a little better?
Grips and target triggers
- Thread starter ATTICUS
- Start date
Atticus...
What kind of finish does this pistol have? Is it blued or parkerized? Also, do you have the capability of posting a picture of it? What are the USAF markings?
I would imagine that a good pair of S&W target grips, maybe some Goncalo Alves grips would make holding it much easier.
This is the type of pistol I learned to shoot with...have always wanted to find one for my collection.
What kind of finish does this pistol have? Is it blued or parkerized? Also, do you have the capability of posting a picture of it? What are the USAF markings?
I would imagine that a good pair of S&W target grips, maybe some Goncalo Alves grips would make holding it much easier.
This is the type of pistol I learned to shoot with...have always wanted to find one for my collection.
FPrice - It has a blued finish which is perfect, except for a little holster wear at the front of the muzzle and sharp front edges of the cylinder.
The left side just above the trigger is marked USAF. I haven't gone over it with a fine tooth comb yet...but that's the only markings I'm aware of.
My home PC has been dead for weeks, so I can't post any pics yet.
The left side just above the trigger is marked USAF. I haven't gone over it with a fine tooth comb yet...but that's the only markings I'm aware of.
My home PC has been dead for weeks, so I can't post any pics yet.
ATTICUS...
Are you sure that this is a model 15-3? On a hunch I checked the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson and found the following:
"U.S.A.F. Issue: In 1966, approximately 2000 Model 15s with 4" barrel were shipped to Warner Robins AFB with U.S.A.F. on left side of frame, other markings unknown. Model 15-2. Worth three times standard model in higher condition grades, double in lower grades with factory letter."
Could be a special example you have there.
Are you sure that this is a model 15-3? On a hunch I checked the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson and found the following:
"U.S.A.F. Issue: In 1966, approximately 2000 Model 15s with 4" barrel were shipped to Warner Robins AFB with U.S.A.F. on left side of frame, other markings unknown. Model 15-2. Worth three times standard model in higher condition grades, double in lower grades with factory letter."
Could be a special example you have there.
ATTICUS...
"FPrice- It is a 15-3. The serial number is K816xxx."
Well, the serial number does fit the model number. However, you are off as far as the manufacture date. Supica and Nahas show this as being a late 1968 revolver. I'm still looking to track this with some AF sources. Hope to be able to help you find some proof of the lineage of this revolver.
One thing you may want to consider is spending the $20-30 and sending a request to S&W. They can give you the best info on this specific gun.
"FPrice- It is a 15-3. The serial number is K816xxx."
Well, the serial number does fit the model number. However, you are off as far as the manufacture date. Supica and Nahas show this as being a late 1968 revolver. I'm still looking to track this with some AF sources. Hope to be able to help you find some proof of the lineage of this revolver.
One thing you may want to consider is spending the $20-30 and sending a request to S&W. They can give you the best info on this specific gun.
Mannlicher
New member
the first thing I do when I pick up a Smith, particularly an N frame, is to replace the target trigger and hammer with slim ones. Next, I have my gunsmith carve a set of grips.