Quote:
Originally Posted by TimoG
...questions .....
Nevertheless two are left:
Does the "K" in the serial number also refer to the type of frame ?
Walter, you called it a "K38" - why ? I know K-22 or 17-2, but what does the "K38" mean ?
...... visiting Trier.....
|
Welcome to the Smith & Wesson Forum.
Yes. K is part of the serial number and also is the frame size of your revolver. Without going too far back in S&W history for more modern revolvers, i.e. 1950's to the present, here are the frame sizes:
J frame - small frame
K frame - medium frame
L frame - medium-large frame
N frame - large frame
X frame - extra large frame
Your revolver is NOT a K-38. The K-38 is .38 Special caliber.
Prior to 1957 Smith & Wesson revolvers were named and not given a model number. After 1957 revolvers were given model numbers.
Prior to 1957 your revolver was properly referred to as a K-22 Masterpiece. After 1957 the designation was changed to the Model 17 but it is still appropriate to refer to it as a K-22 Masterpiece.
K-38 Masterpiece (6" barrel) = Model 14 after 1957
K-22 Masterpiece (6" barrel)= Model 17 after 1957
K-38 Combat Masterpiece (4" barrel) = Model 15 after 1957
K-22 Combat Masterpiece (4" barrel) = Model 18 after 1957
"Combat" refers to a 4" barrel.
The reference to Trier reminded me of one of my favorite vacations when we drove along the Mosel valley in October from Koblenz to Trier. The small towns along the river, the people, and the wines were all fantastic. If you get a chance to try Wine #9 in a bar in which the second floor was twice as wide as the main floor in Bernkastel-Kues I would highly recommend it.
I almost forgot. That's a beautiful revolver and the stocks (grips) are extraordinarily nice.