Some time ago, I got the itch for a Bekeart model .22/32 Heavy Frame Target. All I wanted was a good representative version of this gun to be shot, enjoyed and admired for what it was. Several weeks ago, I located one near home, but after asking for advice on this forum, was advised to pass and wait for a nicer one that was less expensive. I listened to the sage wisdom of the forum members and kept looking. A couple weeks ago, I found one on GB that was an 80-85% version for a reasonable (at least I thought so) buy it now price. I bought it. Not that it really matters, but for those who wish to know, I gave $605 for it.

It has a number of little (hardly noticeable) dings on it, a few speckles and some blue wear hear and there. There is one very small chip off the inside top of the left stock panel. Overall, I am very pleased with it. Haven't had the chance to shoot it yet, but hopefully that will be remedied in the near future. At about the same time as the gun came in to the shop, a letter arrived from the gentleman I purchased it from. Though not advertised with the auction, I was about knocked over when I opened the envelope and inside was an official S&W Letter from Roy Jinks for the gun I had just purchased. What a wonderful surprise!

Thought I would post up a few pics.

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SWCA 3297 SWHF 583

Wow, you lucked out. I'm still looking for one. Would pay that bargain price and probably buy three of them for that.

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Dr. B

You are absolutely going to love shooting that beautiful revolver. I've got one made in 1916 and it is a real joy to shoot. The SA trigger pull feels way too light for me but my gunsmith says not to worry. In that era that's the way they functioned.

It too has has the extended grips and gets lots of looks every time it goes to the range. Probably should get it lettered. You made a terrific purchase.

They're a joy aren't they? You done real good.

I've got one too.


Liked it so much I had to hunt up a 22/32 Kit Gun also.

I think you got a VERY nice specimen! The only one I have been able to find was this one. As you can see, it's had better days. It's equipped with an apparently aftermarket rear sight, and I think the front sight has been altered. According to Roy, it was shipped in March of 1917. At any rate, it actually works and the bore seems in good shape internally.

John

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- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

I saw one of these today for sale locally. Gun fund is empty but it sure would go well with my K22!

Bravo!

You proved that patience is a virtue and has its reward. That's a great price for a great example.

If you don't mind sharing the ship date and s/n or partial, it's appreciated.

I can see that it's post 1922 and pre 1928.

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Jim
S&WCA #819

That one was mentioned here back in 2014, see posting #8.
Bekeart models and .22/32 HFT's

The last picture in the OP is a copy of page 2 of the letter. Why the website rotated the pic, I don't know. So, here is the text of the important stuff. Thanks for all your previous advice.

"We have researched your Smith & Wesson .22/32 Heavy Frame Target Model, First Year Production Variation, caliber .22 Long Rifle, revolver in company records which indicate that your handgun, with Serial number 399275, was shipped from our factory on July 24, 1924 and delivered to Stambaugh-Thompson Co., Youngstown, OH. The records indicate that this revolver was shipped with a 6 inch barrel equipped with a Patridge front sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut extension non-medallion target grips."

If you can answer me one more question, I would appreciate it. I have not seen the term used above by Roy, so what does "First Year Production Variation" mean?

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SWCA 3297 SWHF 583

That's interesting. The poster is from Georgia. I purchased it from a gentleman in Illinois. Seems like this old gun gets around!

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SWCA 3297 SWHF 583

If it doesn't have recessed chambers be sure to shoot standard velocity or target ammo.