Dan Wesson 15-2 Range Review and Fix

Dan Wesson Model 15-2 Revolver

I purchased this Dan Wesson Model 15-2 used, and it came with two interchangeable barrels: a 6-inch and an 8-inch. The 6inch barrel is equipped with a red insert front sight, while the 8inch wears a white insert, giving a nice visual contrast depending on lighting and range conditions.

At the time of purchase, the revolver was experiencing misfires. After inspection, it became clear that a previous owner had attempted a “garage-level” trigger job by clipping the mainspring in an effort to lighten the trigger pull.

Thankfully, EWK came through with a replacement mainspring along with several other maintenance items specific to Dan Wesson revolvers. Once properly sprung, reliability was fully restored.

One of the standout features of the Model 15-2 is the interchangeable barrel system. With the correct tools, barrel swaps are straightforward and take about five minutes. Using a feeler gauge, the barrel-to-cylinder gap can be set to the factory specification of .005 inches. For this revolver, I opted for a slightly wider .006 gap to provide a bit of extra clearance to help prevent cylinder drag from carbon buildup on the cylinder face during extended shooting sessions.

Accuracy was very respectable. From a Ransom Multi-Caliber Rest mounted on a tripod, the revolver produced consistent, 2 in to 3inch groups at 15 yards. The solid barrel system and excellent lockup clearly contribute to its precision.

The frame of the Dan Wesson 15-2 is comparable to, but slightly larger than, a Smith & Wesson K-frame. This added robustness makes it well suited for heavy .357 Magnum loads.

That said, for longer range sessions, I prefer running .38 Special or .38 Special +P. Both loadings are very accurate and noticeably easier on the shooter. As with any revolver that alternates between .38special and .357Magnum, each chamber should be thoroughly cleaned before returning to Magnum ammunition to ensure smooth chambering and extraction.

Overall, the Dan Wesson Model 15-2 is a rugged, accurate, and highly versatile revolver. With proper maintenance and setup, it handles a wide range of loads exceptionally well and remains a standout example of innovative revolver design from the past.

Loads used during this range session proved to be safe in this firearm but may not be safe in yours. Please consult your own professional reloading manual and use all safety precautions. You and only you are responsible for your safety.

357 Magnum Loads For 6in Barrel

170gr Cast Coated HP, Powder Alliant 2400 Charge 12grains 1100fps

180gr Cast Gas Checked FP, Powder H110 Charge 12.8grains 1030fps

38 Special Loads

148gr DEWC Xtreme Plated, Powder W231 Charge 3.4grains 750fps

148fr DEWC Xtreme Plated, Powder Titegroup Charge 3.2grains 820fps