They place the knuckle of your middle finger directly behind the trigger guard where it gets pummeled by recoil. Designed to optimize trigger reach back in the days when single-action firing was the preferred technique, these grips are tremendously awkward during double-action fire.

The factory wooden “splinter grips” with inset S&W medallions are gorgeous and the gun owes a lot of its looks to them. On the range I found the combination of black-on-black, getting completely lost in the black target. Were I relying on this revolver, I would definitely have to do something to the sights to make them a little more visible. Adjustable sights were once perceived as being fragile and prone to breakage. The rear sight on this gun was once acceptable – even preferable in some circles – to the larger adjustable sights we are used to today. This revolver is reminiscent of a simpler time, for better and worse. Unfortunately such a beautiful finish picks up every little smudge and fingerprint… it is hard to believe finishes like these were once standard from the factory. It is absolutely gorgeous and work like this is seldom seen these days. Also note the blueing on this particular gun. Though not especially well-suited to rapid acquisition, the fixed sights on this model do lend an attractive flat-top profile to the revolver. I do really appreciate the aesthetics of the bull-barrel on the Model 13. This model is somewhat lesser known than the Models 10 and 65 but typifies the 4″, K-Frame’s quick-handling and balance.

Though also made with in a 3″ round butt configuration, the one I got my hands on is a Model 13-4 with a 4″ barrel and square butt. I thought you all might enjoy a look at this retro revolver here! Smith & Wesson Model 13 I recently got to spend a little time with this revolver and I’m glad that I did. It is functionally identical to the stainless steel Model 65. Like its little brother (the Model 10) the 13 is a blued steel model and features a bull barrel and fixed sights. Once issued by both the New York State Police and the FBI, the Smith & Wesson Model 13 is K-Frame.

Smith and wesson model 25-15 review