Based upon my personal experience at the time, the Bright Blue was six months uncommon. My first ever brand new in the box store bought S&W is K-22 #K253444, shipped January 10, 1956---and it was "satin" blue---as was every one in the store--and they had them stacked to the ceiling. The fact I wanted Bright Blue was no problem---they'd be glad to take my order, and I could pick it up in six months.

Plan B was put into effect: I took the gun home, packed it up, and shipped it back to Springfield. I had it back in 2-3 weeks----bright and shiny.

Ralph Tremaine

Oh, and it's a wide rib.