Smith & Wesson S&W K-22 Masterpiece Pre-Model 17 .22 LR Revolver 1951 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1075
LSB#: 210506MW88
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: K-22 Masterpiece, Postwar 3rd Model, Pre-Model 18
Serial Number: K114889
Year of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Hand Ejector Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “*22 LONG RIFLE CTG*”. The butt of the grip frame, rear face of the cylinder, underside of the ejector star (no letter prefix), barrel flat, and the rear face of the crane (no letter prefix) are marked with the serial number. The sideplate has the Smith & Wesson monogram logo and the right side of the frame is marked with the four-line marcas registradas. The crane, crane cut and sides of the grip frame have inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 4”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade on a raised serrated ramp pinned to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, white-outlined square notch leaf in a micrometer-click base that is adjustable for windage and elevation. The top of the rib and rear sight base are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut magna stocks with S&W monogram medallions. There is a small chip loss on the right panel at the corner where the front strap widens into the frame. There is a hairline crack on the right panel at the corner where the backstrap widens into the frame. The are some scattered compressions and a few little dings. The checkering is strong. The grips are shy to the front strap. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is some light thinning on the sides of the barrel at the muzzle. There are a couple of hairline scratches, most noticeable on the right side of the frame and sideplate. There are some scattered little tiny marks through the finish. There is a faint turn line on the cylinder. There are some light handling marks. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The single-action trigger is crisp and the double-action smooth. The cylinder lockup has some light side-to-side play on all six chambers. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1931, the K-22 saw a few improvements such as the now-iconic micrometer adjustable rear sight introduced in the 2nd Model and the barrel rib introduced on this, the 3rd Model K-22 Masterpiece or Pre-Model 18. This example is in about Fine condition with about 96% of its finish remaining, a great bore in its 4″ barrel paired with magna stocks. This revolver will make a great gun for training a new shooter to use a revolver, target shooting or just recreational plinking. With its 5-screw frame, pinned barrel and classic look, they quite literally do not make them like this anymore. This is a wonderful opportunity at an old-school Smith & Wesson with all of the quality craftsmanship they were known for in the early post-war years. Please see our photos and good luck!