I'm looking at buying a S&W I found and was wanting to know what model it is since there is not one on the yoke. Serial number is K316236, 6 shot .22lr, adjustable sights, 4" barrel, blued, I believe it's a K frame.

Thank's in advance

Hi Mouse

What you found is a .22 Combat Masterpiece. The serial number means it likely shipped in 1958 and is in the period when model numbers were first being applied. The lowest number on a target model K frame I've found that was model marked is K314496, but the guns were not marked in serial order.

Yours would have eventually been a Model 18. Standard configuration had the 4" barrel on the Model 18, and a 6" barrel on the Model 17.

If the one you found is in decent condition and the price is right, you should buy it. The .22 Combat Masterpiece is a wonderful little revolver. Accurate and fun to shoot.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Thanks for the info, any estimates on value for good or very good condition in the current climate?

They are in the $7-800 ball park for nice examples. More with box and tools or target features like hammer, trigger, and stocks.

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Jim
S&WCA #819

Although the K-22 was designed as a target gun with the expected 6" barrel, the development of the 4" Combat Masterpiece inspired the production of the 4" version of the 22, the revolver in question. It was never as numerous as its longer-barreled brethren, the 22 Combat Masterpiece was and is a handy gun for trail and field. Also, due to its relatively smaller numbers, it has some collector interest if found in nice condition. Given the opportunity to buy one in the price range mentioned by Brother Hondo44 (or less if I got lucky ) it would be very tempting... and i'm not even in the market for one!

Froggie

PS Hondo44's price might show a little bit of a Kalifornia Premium compared to what you see in the free state of Kansas, but they're in demand just about nationwide.