7" or 7&1/2" barrel? Specifically one that shipped in 1948? I have not verified serial #'s yet. Just sitting here on my lunch break and figured I'd throw out a question.

Thanks,
Bob

I would say not. The Combat Masterpiece did not come out until 1949, but came with a 4" and I recall reading about a 5" example. The Masterpiece came with a 6" barrel only. It was much later that the company came out with an 8 3/8" barrel.

There are no examples of a 7" or 7 1/2" in the SWCA database and what books I have all list the 6" only for the K22 Masterpiece.

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Gary
SWCA 2515

Never say never, but the 8 3/8" barrel in the K-22/model 17 was not offered until much later than 1948. Most likely a cut-down and later barrel if it is a factory part.

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Alan
SWCA 2023, SWHF 220

Thanks fella's. I doubt it came with that barrel length. I do not recall seeing that length in the S&W bible. I verified serial #, it matches according to pics. Asked seller about his/her measuring technique.........we'll see.

Thanks again
Bob

PS, if it is in fact a 7" barrel, would the factory "stamp" a "replacement" barrel with the serial #? I know a letter would clear it up but........

A matching numbered barrel with a factory crown, front sight and centered barrel stampings (what the heck, add a rework date stamp to the grip frame too!) would be good confirmation. Short of that, beware.

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Alan
SWCA 2023, SWHF 220

Are you sure the seller is measuring from cylinder face to muzzle and not from the frame ?

I understand what your saying about confirmation. But I'm confused about the "what the heck, add a rework date stamp to the grip frame too!". I know the factory stamped rework dates on the grip frame....... Just confused about what your trying to tell me.
Bob

No Sir I'm not. I asked the seller, waiting for a response.
Bob

Anyone can stamp numbers on a barrel. As Alan states if there is no evidence of factory rework stamps or dates, I would also question the gun. I have seen many guns for sale with incorrect barrel lengths stated, so it might be a 6"? If you can find a picture of the entire gun, use the cylinder (1.57" long) to confirm the barrel length.

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Gary
SWCA 2515

I will place a bet on barrel measured from rear of cylinder. Can't wait for results

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Some collect art; I shoot it!

Well, 1.57" would explain it. Seller states it's a 7 & 1/2" barrel.
Also looking at the pics..... The relationship of the roll marks compared to the ejector rod latch do not match my 2 K-22's from 1948 (same year as the one in question).

I couldn't tell a factory crown if it smacked me. Still a young pup in this game.

I have my doubts to the authenticity of this barrel. Had it from the first time I read the ad. But..... I have learned (from this forum), when it comes to S&W, never say never.

I appreciate your time folks.
Bob