Freedom Arms 1997 Premier Grade .22 LR 5 1/2″ Single Action Revolver
SOLD FOR: $2,741.00
LSB#: LSB250708MS104
Make: Freedom Arms
Model: 1997 Premier Grade
Serial Number: Q0372
Year of Manufacture: 1997-2025
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Shrouded Ejector Rod.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FREEDOM ARMS MODEL 1997 .22 LR / FREEDOM, WYOMING U.S.A.” The right side of the receiver is marked, “FREEDOM ARMS PREMIER GRADE” The left side of the frame is marked, “Q 0372” the underside of the frame is marked, “PATENTED”
Barrel Length: 5 1/2″, Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade pinned to a raised base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a windage/elevation adjustable rectangular notch sight screwed to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth imitation bonded ivory grip set. The grips show no notable signs of wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion. There is some light fouling in the bore, and in the cylinder. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows minor wear, with only the most minor of superficial imperfections on the metal, and a very faint turn line on the cylinder. The jeweling on the hammer and trigger are vivid and crisp. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. The cylinder locks up tight on all chambers, with minimal side to side play. We did not fire this handgun, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Freedom Arms is well known for producing some of the finest precision revolvers in the world, and the Model 1997 is no exception. While most collectors associate the company with big-bore hunting handguns like the .454 Casull, this Premier Grade revolver in .22 Long Rifle demonstrates the same uncompromising craftsmanship applied to a rimfire platform. Built in Freedom, Wyoming, the 1997 series was designed as a smaller-frame revolver, offering the feel and handling of a traditional single-action while maintaining the exceptional accuracy and strength Freedom Arms revolvers are famous for.
This example features a 5 1/2″ octagonal barrel, a distinctive and desirable feature that highlights the gun’s precision-oriented design. The stainless finish remains in Excellent condition, with only a faint cylinder turn line and a few superficial handling marks. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 9.5/10, ensuring this revolver is as accurate as it is beautiful. The Premier Grade rollmark further distinguishes this revolver as the top tier of Freedom Arms production. The smooth imitation ivory grips add to its classic aesthetic, complementing the clean, angular lines of the octagonal barrel.
For collectors, this Premier Grade 1997 revolver is a chance to own a high-end rimfire that represents the pinnacle of modern single-action revolver craftsmanship. For shooters, its exceptional mechanical tightness, crisp trigger, and inherent accuracy make it an unrivaled rimfire revolver for target work or small game hunting. Whether displayed as part of a serious revolver collection or used in the field, it embodies the precision and pride of Freedom Arms’ Wyoming heritage. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
