Single Action model #14 S+W

[DJW]

Local shop called today. I had left a request(2004)for a heads up if they came across a model 14 in decent shape. I found one at the same shop in Sept. of that year but they kept the card regardless. Today they inform me that they do indeed have such an animal taken in trade. The difference is that it was converted by Smith to single action only. Does anyone have any idea about the value of this revolver? Over the phone they claim it is almost pristine...........very rare, etc. I personally have never seen such an animal. Any ideas?
Thanks, Dave

 

[bluetopper]

I think the SA only 14's bring a little bit more from a collector or someone who is intentially looking for one but not by any substantial amount at all.

 

[GRIZ22]

SAO was a factory option for targetshooters when the Model 14 was king. I agree with parisite's assessment of the value.

 

[DJW]

Thanks to both of you guys. I didn't even know the factory had that option. Seeing as how the one I bought in '04 will put 4 out of 5 touching in the black at 25 yds. and cost me $270 out the door, I think I'll pass on this one for $450. Really no need for it and you have given me reason to believe it is overpriced to boot. I am not a collector, just a shooter and really have better uses for whatever cash I have at this point. Fortunately I found lots of 148 gr. HBWC a few years ago and some bullseye as well as primers and am well set with my revolver that actually did not even need to be sighted in as it must have been used with the same 2.7 gr. by the previous owner. Again, thanks for your assessment of the value of this single action piece.
Best, Dave

 

[Oro]

Really no need for it and you have given me reason to believe it is overpriced to boot.

Actually, they've given you reason to believe it's fairly priced. $270 in 2004 in a S&W is about $450 right now. The inflation in used guns is about that much and that is what the market will price it at. You frankly are getting the rarer variant priced like a normal one, so it might be actually a bit of a good deal. If it is indeed "prisitine" with original grips, it's a good deal. You don't have to buy it of course if you don't want it, but it does not sound "overpriced."

 

[GRIZ22]

will put 4 out of 5 touching in the black at 25 yds.

That one not touching is probably your fault! Model 14s are great guns. They are way understressed which results in longevity.

 

[DJW]

Oro; Thanks for another perspective. Didn't realize the inflation was that great. I thought the price increase was due to fear of the new administration but that this was pretty far from an EBR!
Griz; You are right. I get so excited about the nice group that I jerk the 5th shot and mess it up! Got to stay relaxed and perhaps lay off the spotting scope!
Thanks guys.
Dave

 

[Radagast]

From the standard catalog of S&W in 2006
Model 14: The K38 Masterpiece Single Action
As described above ( Model 14 entry) but deletion of internal parts allows single action only. Pulling the trigger only rotates the cylinder but does not lift the hammer. Avaliable with wide and standard width hammer and trigger. Manufactured c.1961-1982.
ANIB $550. Exc $500. VG $300. Good $250. Fair $185. Poor $100.
Note 20% premium for 8 & 3/8 inch barrel.

I would say Pristine = Excellent, so the price is good for the product. The question is do you need the product, already having a good Model 14. If you are a collector accumulator, then it may be worth buying. If you are a shooter, maybe not.

If you buy it please post pics and a range report!

 

[Old Fuff]

While they may have made some guns by deleting internal parts, the true "single-action only" target version of the K-38 Masterpiece (known later as the model 14), had an entirely different hammer and trigger that was designed to shorten the cocking stroke. This made it easier for a marksman to cock the hammer during rapid fire, and also if a cartridge failed to fire he/she could pull the trigger without lifting the hammer to rotate the cylinder around and come to the unfired round for a second hit.

This set-up enjoyed some popularity among serious bullseye shooters, but unfortunately came about at the same time competitors were changing from revolvers to pistols. While they are seldom seen, they haven't attracted much of a following among collectors or today's shooters. However if one is looking for a top-quality gun to shoot exclusively by thumb-cocking they might want to give one a look-see if the opportunity came along. It should be noted that given the market they were aimed at, S&W took some extra care when they were assembled.

The noticeable increase in prices may be partly blamed on inflation, but the realization that these older guns offer quality hand craftsmanship that isn't seen in current production has a lot too do with it also.

 

[DJW]

Thanks again guys. I went and looked at it. It was marked 14-3 and was very interesting. Pulling the trigger advanced the cyl. but did not cock the hammer. Cocking the hammer also advanced the cyl and the single action trigger was excellent. The bluing was pretty worn and I realized that as a shooter I already have a really decent model 14. Decided to pass. Almost made it out the door but a Dan Wesson Bobtail caught my eye. That is another story.
Dave