I've been down at the deer camp but had to go into town today. A couple of club members, and good friends, are wanting to work a trade.

The owner of this "K 22" (actually a K 38) was told it was very valuable ($1,200) LOL. He also believes it to be a pre-war, which it isn't. He got it for a steal at an estate sale and has no desire to skin his friend. I told him I'd ask you guys.

I'm guessing, off the top of my head, that it probably dates to 1953 or '54, but don't know.

- When was it made? (s/n is K 2236xx)
- Are the stocks probably original, and if so, how does it affect its value?

The gun has some loss of blueing on the end of barrel, about typical and a few other minor imperfections. Not pristine, but nice little pre-Model 14 overall!




Thanks guys for a quick opinion! I'll be back at camp tomorrow and I'd love to let 'em know what it is worth.


Thanks! Tom

1954 or possibly very early 1955 would be my guess.

I doubt the stocks are original equipment. I think those smooth magnas were available as aftermarket stocks from S&W, but won't swear to that. I consider them an upgrade that is worth a slight premium.

The target hammer could be original, but might be an aftermarket drop-in replacement.

In my experience the K-38s don't command the prices paid for K-22s of similar age and in similar condition. I have paid between $600 and $800 for K-38s in the last three years, with the high price going for a hard-to-find narrow-rib specimen from early 1948.

I could see $650 for this revolver, maybe $700 if it felt really good in my hand as I checked it out. I doubt I would go over $750 for the bare gun under any circumstances. I would of course expect to pay more if it came with box, docs and tools.

__________________
David Wilson

Thanks David for the fast response! You've come through again!!!

I didn't realize this K Masterpiece would go for what a 27-2 might go for. I'd figured $500-$650. Then again, with nice vintage Smith revolvers the price goes up every year!

Tom

My K38 S/N K216xxx shipped in 1955 per Mr Jinks. It has unrelieved Target stocks.

$700???? Holy carp. I was thinking $300-$350.

Glad I have all the guns I need as I sure can't afford to buy them now.