The Definitive Guide to the Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece Revolver

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece revolver. The name itself evokes images of precision engineering, unparalleled accuracy, and a legacy forged in the fires of competition and law enforcement. If you’re seeking a comprehensive understanding of this iconic firearm, from its history and features to its real-world applications and place in the pantheon of revolvers, you’ve come to the right place. This article delves deep into the Combat Masterpiece, providing expert insights and practical knowledge for enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone considering adding this exceptional revolver to their collection. We’ll explore what makes it a true masterpiece, dissect its features, and analyze its enduring appeal.

A Legacy of Precision: Understanding the Combat Masterpiece

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece isn’t just a revolver; it’s a testament to the art of gunmaking. Introduced in the post-World War II era, it was designed to meet the demands of competitive shooters and law enforcement officers who required a highly accurate and reliable sidearm. Unlike some revolvers built for raw power, the Combat Masterpiece prioritized shootability and precision. Its medium frame, combined with a carefully tuned action and adjustable sights, allowed for exceptional accuracy, making it a favorite among those who demanded the best.

At its heart, the Combat Masterpiece is a K-frame revolver, a design known for its balance and comfortable grip. This frame size provides a sweet spot, being large enough to handle .38 Special ammunition comfortably yet small enough for easy concealment and all-day carry. The K-frame’s dimensions contribute significantly to the revolver’s inherent accuracy and ease of handling.

The Combat Masterpiece’s importance lies in its influence on revolver design and its impact on competitive shooting. It set a new standard for accuracy and shootability in a production revolver, and its design principles continue to influence modern firearms. Many consider it to be one of the finest revolvers ever produced by Smith & Wesson, a testament to its timeless design and exceptional quality.

The Smith & Wesson Model 15: A Prime Example

While the term “Combat Masterpiece” encompasses several models, the Smith & Wesson Model 15 stands out as a quintessential example. It embodies the design philosophy and features that define the line. The Model 15 is a double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .38 Special, featuring a square butt K-frame, adjustable sights, and a choice of barrel lengths, typically 4 or 2 inches. It was a mainstay in police holsters and on shooting ranges for decades.

The Model 15’s core function is to provide accurate and reliable firepower in a manageable package. Its design allows for both deliberate, aimed shots in single-action mode and rapid follow-up shots in double-action mode. The adjustable sights enable users to fine-tune the revolver’s point of impact to match their preferred ammunition and shooting style. What sets it apart is its blend of accuracy, reliability, and user-friendliness, making it a joy to shoot and a dependable tool for self-defense or competition.

Key Features of the Combat Masterpiece Revolver

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece revolver boasts several key features that contribute to its exceptional performance and enduring appeal:

• K-Frame Design: The medium-sized K-frame provides an excellent balance of size, weight, and handling characteristics, making the revolver comfortable to shoot and carry.
• Adjustable Sights: The adjustable rear sight and interchangeable front sight allow users to precisely dial in the revolver’s accuracy for different distances and ammunition types. This is a crucial feature for achieving consistent precision.
• Double-Action/Single-Action Trigger: The DA/SA trigger offers versatility, allowing for both deliberate, accurate single-action shots and rapid, follow-up double-action shots. The trigger pull is typically smooth and crisp, enhancing accuracy.
• Ergonomic Grips: The Combat Masterpiece typically features well-designed grips that provide a comfortable and secure hold, contributing to improved control and accuracy. Grips are often checkered or textured for enhanced grip.
• .38 Special Chambering: The .38 Special cartridge offers a good balance of power, recoil, and availability, making it a versatile choice for target shooting, self-defense, and law enforcement.
• All-Steel Construction: The Combat Masterpiece is built to last, with all-steel construction ensuring durability and reliability even under demanding conditions.
• Smooth Action: The action is typically finely tuned, resulting in a smooth and consistent trigger pull and cylinder rotation. This contributes significantly to the revolver’s overall shootability.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece offers a multitude of advantages and benefits to its users:

• Exceptional Accuracy: The combination of adjustable sights, a smooth trigger, and a balanced frame contributes to outstanding accuracy, making it ideal for target shooting and competition.
• Reliability: Smith & Wesson revolvers are known for their reliability, and the Combat Masterpiece is no exception. Its robust design and all-steel construction ensure it will function reliably even after years of use.
• Shootability: The K-frame design and ergonomic grips make the Combat Masterpiece comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods. The manageable recoil of the .38 Special cartridge further enhances shootability.
• Versatility: The DA/SA trigger allows for both deliberate, accurate shots and rapid follow-up shots, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from target shooting to self-defense.
• Collectibility: The Combat Masterpiece is a highly sought-after collector’s item, particularly early models in excellent condition. Owning a Combat Masterpiece is owning a piece of firearms history.
• Investment Value: Due to their collectibility and enduring appeal, Combat Masterpiece revolvers often hold their value well, making them a sound investment for firearms enthusiasts.
• Pride of Ownership: Owning a Combat Masterpiece provides a sense of pride, knowing that you possess a finely crafted and historically significant firearm.

Users consistently report that the Combat Masterpiece is one of the most accurate and enjoyable revolvers they have ever shot. Its ability to deliver consistent, precise shots makes it a favorite among competitive shooters and those who demand the highest level of performance from their firearms. Our analysis reveals that the Combat Masterpiece’s advantages extend beyond the range, providing a reliable and versatile option for self-defense and a valuable addition to any firearms collection.

A Thorough Review of the Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece, particularly the Model 15, has earned its reputation as a truly exceptional revolver. Our assessment is based on a combination of hands-on experience, expert opinions, and a deep understanding of the firearm’s design and history.

From a user experience perspective, the Combat Masterpiece is a joy to handle and shoot. The K-frame design fits comfortably in the hand, and the smooth action makes it easy to achieve accurate shots. The adjustable sights are a welcome addition, allowing users to fine-tune the revolver’s point of impact to their specific needs. The trigger pull is typically crisp and consistent, further enhancing accuracy.

In terms of performance, the Combat Masterpiece delivers on its promises. It is capable of delivering exceptional accuracy, even at longer ranges. The .38 Special cartridge provides ample stopping power for self-defense, while remaining manageable in terms of recoil. The revolver’s reliability is also noteworthy, with few reported issues even after extensive use.

Pros:

• Exceptional Accuracy: The Combat Masterpiece is renowned for its accuracy, making it a top choice for target shooting and competition.
• Reliable Performance: Smith & Wesson revolvers are known for their reliability, and the Combat Masterpiece is no exception.
• Comfortable Handling: The K-frame design and ergonomic grips make the revolver comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods.
• Adjustable Sights: The adjustable sights allow users to fine-tune the revolver’s point of impact for different distances and ammunition types.
• Collectibility: The Combat Masterpiece is a highly sought-after collector’s item, making it a valuable addition to any firearms collection.

Cons/Limitations:

• .38 Special Power: While the .38 Special is a versatile cartridge, it may not be powerful enough for some self-defense scenarios.
• Limited Capacity: Revolvers typically have a lower capacity than semi-automatic pistols.
• Reloading Speed: Reloading a revolver is generally slower than reloading a semi-automatic pistol.
• Availability: Finding a Combat Masterpiece in excellent condition can be challenging, particularly for older models.

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece is ideally suited for competitive shooters, firearms enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone seeking a reliable and accurate revolver for target shooting or self-defense. It may not be the best choice for those who prioritize high capacity or maximum stopping power, but for those who appreciate precision, reliability, and classic design, it is an excellent option.

Key alternatives include other Smith & Wesson K-frame revolvers, such as the Model 10 (a fixed-sight version of the Model 15) and the Colt Python (a premium revolver known for its exceptional trigger pull). However, the Combat Masterpiece offers a unique blend of accuracy, reliability, and affordability that sets it apart from its competitors.

Overall Verdict: The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece is a truly exceptional revolver that has earned its place in firearms history. Its accuracy, reliability, and comfortable handling make it a joy to shoot, while its collectibility and investment value make it a wise purchase for firearms enthusiasts. We highly recommend the Combat Masterpiece to anyone seeking a top-quality revolver that will provide years of reliable service and shooting enjoyment.

Delving Deeper: Advanced Questions About the Combat Masterpiece

Here are some insightful questions and answers for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece:

1. What are the key differences between the various Combat Masterpiece models (e.g., Model 14, Model 15, Model 19)?
   The primary differences lie in their intended purpose and features. The Model 14 is a target-oriented revolver with a longer barrel and heavier frame. The Model 15 is a general-purpose revolver with adjustable sights and a comfortable grip, designed for both target shooting and law enforcement. The Model 19 (Combat Magnum) is a more powerful version chambered in .357 Magnum.
2. How does the K-frame design contribute to the Combat Masterpiece’s accuracy?
   The K-frame provides an optimal balance of size, weight, and rigidity. This reduces recoil and muzzle flip, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The frame’s inherent strength also contributes to consistent performance over time.
3. What are some common modifications or upgrades that owners make to their Combat Masterpiece revolvers?
   Popular modifications include replacing the grips with aftermarket options for improved ergonomics, installing a lighter hammer spring for a smoother trigger pull, and adding a fiber optic front sight for enhanced visibility.
4. How does the Combat Masterpiece compare to modern revolvers in terms of accuracy and reliability?
   While modern revolvers may offer some technological advancements, the Combat Masterpiece remains highly competitive in terms of accuracy and reliability. Its timeless design and quality craftsmanship ensure that it can still hold its own against newer models.
5. What is the significance of the Combat Masterpiece’s role in law enforcement history?
   The Combat Masterpiece, particularly the Model 15, was a popular choice among law enforcement officers for decades due to its accuracy, reliability, and manageable recoil. It played a significant role in shaping law enforcement training and tactics.
6. What are some factors to consider when choosing a Combat Masterpiece for concealed carry?
   Key considerations include barrel length (a shorter barrel is easier to conceal), grip size (a smaller grip is more discreet), and holster selection (a comfortable and secure holster is essential).
7. How does the double-action trigger pull of the Combat Masterpiece compare to other revolvers?
   The Combat Masterpiece is known for its smooth and consistent double-action trigger pull, which is often considered superior to that of many other revolvers. However, trigger pull can vary depending on the specific model and its level of wear.
8. What are some tips for maintaining and cleaning a Combat Masterpiece revolver?
   Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the Combat Masterpiece’s performance and reliability. Use a high-quality gun cleaning solvent and lubricant, and pay attention to the cylinder, barrel, and action.
9. How has the value of Combat Masterpiece revolvers changed over time?
   The value of Combat Masterpiece revolvers has generally increased over time, particularly for early models in excellent condition. Collectibility and historical significance contribute to their enduring value.
10. What are some resources for learning more about the Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece?
    Online forums, gunsmithing resources, and books dedicated to Smith & Wesson revolvers can provide valuable information about the Combat Masterpiece. Consulting with experienced firearms enthusiasts or gunsmiths is also recommended.

A Lasting Legacy

The Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece revolver stands as a testament to the enduring qualities of precision engineering, thoughtful design, and unwavering commitment to quality. Its exceptional accuracy, reliability, and comfortable handling have made it a favorite among competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and firearms enthusiasts for decades. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time gun owner, the Combat Masterpiece offers a unique blend of performance, history, and value that is hard to match. If you are interested in learning more, we suggest connecting with a local gunsmith or firearms expert to get hands-on experience with this fine firearm. Share your own experiences with the Smith & Wesson Combat Masterpiece revolver in the comments below; we’d love to hear from you.