Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 03-11-2012, 04:45 PM
sapporo sapporo is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default 45 ACP Revolver Info Request

Greetings,
I was wondering if anyone could give me some info and history behind a 45 ACP revolver that S&W does not make anymore. I'm interested in the S&W Model 22 (45acp) with 4" barrel, NIB. I was told by my gun shop that SW no longer lists this in the catalog but it was offered recently in standard blue and case hardened version.

Can anyone tell me the history of this pistol? Why it is no longer made? Anyone own one? What would one be expected to pay for a NIB example in blue version? I plan on using this for casual shooting and my bedtime protection revolver. I prefer 45 ACP due to the fact that I own other pistols in this caliber.

I'm also open to other suggestions on ALL STEEL versions of the 45 ACP revolver. I'm not really interested in the Nightguard as I prefer all steel revolvers. I've handled the S&W 1917 and while it's a fine weapon, it's just a tad too large for what I want. The Model 22 in 4" seems perfect but I can't find any near me and would have to buy one out of state. Any suggestions and help greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 03-11-2012, 05:17 PM
JamesFlowers JamesFlowers is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times in 1 Post
Default

The 625 is an N-Frame available in 45 ACP. I think the typical barrel now is 4", though the older 5" models are highly sought after by USPSA Competition shooters.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 03-11-2012, 05:48 PM
Rapidray's Avatar
Rapidray Rapidray is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Douglasville,Georgia
Posts: 826
Likes: 517
Liked 303 Times in 132 Posts
Default Model 22...

This model was known as the "1950 .45 Military" before 1957. Chambered in .45 Auto Rim or .45 ACP. Used half moon clips on the .45 ACP. From 1951 to 1966 - 3,976 were made and the starting serial is S85000. Info taken from Standard Catalog of Firearms. Because I had to look it up! As for prices... this is an old copy and other forum members will give you a better price. Hope you get it and if you do...you know the rule...Photo's please.
__________________
2 Timothy 1:7
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 03-11-2012, 05:49 PM
TSQUARED TSQUARED is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Michigan, USA
Posts: 2,260
Likes: 2
Liked 114 Times in 84 Posts
Default

Check GunsAmerica or Gunbroker they usually have some for sale. I always purchased from Welcome to SportingArms.com, your source for discount firearms, ammo, and accessories. Brands such as Browning, Kimber, Remington, Sigarms, Colt, Winchester and more. in Texas.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 03-11-2012, 06:46 PM
DCrunch DCrunch is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

Every thing you want to know about the S&W Model 22.

S&W Model 22 - Bing
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 03-11-2012, 06:48 PM
S&WIowegan S&WIowegan is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Iowa
Posts: 4,106
Likes: 14,444
Liked 3,763 Times in 1,784 Posts
Thumbs up

The 22-4 was reintroduced in the mid-2000s at the instigation of Clint Smith of Thunder Ranch. He saw it as a no nonsense personal defence revolver with fixed sights fed with moonclipped .45 ACP ammo. I have two of them and used them in a PD class at TR. They performed well with only one drawback....the front sight is a bit thick for 50 yard work.

In the last year or two, S&W made some of these in their Classic line.
__________________
Bob.
SWCA 1821
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 03-11-2012, 06:53 PM
sapporo sapporo is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by S&WIowegan View Post
The 22-4 was reintroduced in the mid-2000s at the instigation of Clint Smith of Thunder Ranch. He saw it as a no nonsense personal defence revolver with fixed sights fed with moonclipped .45 ACP ammo. I have two of them and used them in a PD class at TR. They performed well with only one drawback....the front sight is a bit thick for 50 yard work.

In the last year or two, S&W made some of these in their Classic line.
That's the one I want. Any idea what they go for NIB? They are no longer made by S&W. Fixed sights works fine with me. Many thanks!
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 03-11-2012, 07:13 PM
murphydog's Avatar
murphydog murphydog is offline
Moderator
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Jun 2007
Posts: 26,785
Likes: 938
Liked 18,880 Times in 9,242 Posts
Default

They usually sell in the $6-700 range, perhaps a little less if you catch the right seller at a weak moment.
__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 03-11-2012, 08:16 PM
sapporo sapporo is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by murphydog View Post
They usually sell in the $6-700 range, perhaps a little less if you catch the right seller at a weak moment.
Thanks. I'm not an FFL or a dealer. I'd be buying retail....sad to say. I'm not seeing them on gunbroker. I'd love to get one at $600-700 for a true NIB example. The repro 1917's sell for $809.00 at Buds.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 03-11-2012, 08:19 PM
mbnatt's Avatar
mbnatt mbnatt is offline
US Veteran
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Michigan
Posts: 181
Likes: 78
Liked 25 Times in 20 Posts
Default

Sorry, all I can say to add is it's a hoot! Two 625's and all I want is more!
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 03-11-2012, 09:29 PM
Auto426 Auto426 is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I hate to hear that. A new 22-4 had been on my wishlist for a few years now. I had told myself 2 years ago that I should get one because S&W might stop making them. And now it's too late.

I guess I'm going to have to move the 27 classic up the list now. I do like the way they redesigned the barrel lug to look more like the older guns. The 27 will also be cheaper to feed.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 03-11-2012, 09:36 PM
S&WIowegan S&WIowegan is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Iowa
Posts: 4,106
Likes: 14,444
Liked 3,763 Times in 1,784 Posts
Wink

You make it sound like you want an unfired gun to put in your safe. Do you plan to shoot a 22-4 if you get one?

I am willing to sell my least used 22-4 which has been used but not abused. PM me if you care and I'll get it out and see how it looks.
__________________
Bob.
SWCA 1821
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 03-11-2012, 11:52 PM
nipster nipster is offline
Banned
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Tampa, FL
Posts: 2,026
Likes: 5
Liked 388 Times in 273 Posts
Default

Any of you that have the model 22 actually fire rimmed 45 auto in them? After doing a little research I found that ammo choices are limited and it's kind of hard to find. I find the moon clip gimmick kind of bothersome. I borrowed a buddy's Taurus Judge once and ran 45 auto through it using moon clips. First time I had ever had to use them in a weapon. Found it kind of clunky.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 03-12-2012, 12:24 AM
Dale53 Dale53 is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: Southwestern Ohio
Posts: 2,337
Likes: 209
Liked 1,195 Times in 457 Posts
Default

I don't have a Model 22 S&W but I DO have two 625's. I consider this one of the most practical revolvers that Smith has ever made.

I have NO problem with using either the full moon clips OR the .45 Auto Rim. I do both.

A suggestion for those that don't like the fact that you need tools to re and de moon the clips. RIMZ clips are now made of a carbon polymer product and can be loaded and unloaded by hand. I have both the original polymer clips and the newer hydrocarbon polymer clips. I prefer the new clips (they are rigid, hold the cartridges more securely and yet you can still load and unload them with your fingers). The original clips were steel and were called half moon clips (each clip held three cartridges). The more modern "full moon clips" hold six. The steel full moon clips DO require tools to re and de-moon but they are certainly usable.

The full moon clips allow the quickest of all reloads in a revolver. If you prefer rimmed cases, and reload (as all good pistol shooters really need to do) then Starline Brass .45 Auto Rim cases are the answer. I have and use both.

I prefer adjustable sighted revolvers for general use, my self. However, if you prefer fixed sights then the Model 22 is a dandy for home defense and also general field use. Work up a load that shoots to the sights with a proper bullet and you are "good to go"...

FWIW
Dale53

Last edited by Dale53; 03-12-2012 at 12:26 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 03-12-2012, 07:42 AM
bipe215 bipe215 is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 124
Likes: 44
Liked 77 Times in 38 Posts
Default

My son just traded for a 1950 this weekend. It has Thunder Ranch grips and case. What's special about this version or is it just cosmetic.?

Steve
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 03-12-2012, 10:49 AM
Dennis The B's Avatar
Dennis The B Dennis The B is offline
US Veteran
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: SE Mich - O/S Detroit
Posts: 3,159
Likes: 2,026
Liked 2,801 Times in 1,017 Posts
Default

Here's a Model 22-4, that's not a Thunder Ranch Model. I changed the original stocks out for a set of Ahrends. It's an outstanding shooter. The stocks on it in the picture are Altamont service stocks in rosewood.

These might not have been high-volume sellers (also the Model 21), so they don't stay in the catalogues very long.
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 03-12-2012, 01:17 PM
sapporo sapporo is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Dennis,
That is the exact revolver that I'm looking for. Impossible to find around me. What did they sell for new? Max Retail price? Thanks
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 03-12-2012, 07:33 PM
trikerider trikerider is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Iowa
Posts: 72
Likes: 2
Liked 14 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Looks mighty fine, Dennis. I want one. trikerider
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 03-12-2012, 10:16 PM
Stinger4me Stinger4me is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: U.S.
Posts: 212
Likes: 11
Liked 40 Times in 17 Posts
Default

I bought one a couple of years ago to settle an estate. My goal was to have a .45 revolver to carry to the woods. The gun shots very nice but works much better with auto rim ammo which is very hard to find. I purchased some brass and loaded my own. Even a rookie can have fun loading these and shooting the gun. The gun is nice to handle and fun to shoot. I am giving some thought to selling the gun because I think I will be going to a SIG in the same caliber. It has higher capacity.

Stinger
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 03-12-2012, 10:39 PM
Shiloh Shepherds Shiloh Shepherds is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Indiana
Posts: 26
Likes: 1
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

OK don't laugh at my question. If the revolver is marked as S&W 625-4, and says on the right side of the barrel "45 caliber of 1989" is the gun chambered for .45 ACP or 45 Long Colt? It is satin stainless, pre-MIM and has the Pachmyer rubber grips. No box, no paperwork and no listing of moon clips with the gun. Any help will be appreciated.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 03-12-2012, 10:52 PM
OK Hog Shooter's Avatar
OK Hog Shooter OK Hog Shooter is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Central OK
Posts: 2,327
Likes: 610
Liked 420 Times in 263 Posts
Default

I have two 625s in hand and a Model of 1917 waiting to be picked up from my FFL. I don't find the moonclips to be an issue, but then I went ahead and purchased the proper tools. I find loading and unloading with the clips to be a breeze. I also have a 625 MG in Long Colt. Needless to say, I have both hands full. I've been looking for an M22 for the past coupla weeks... patience, grasshopper... patience.
__________________
Isaiah 55:8-9
Phil. 4:13
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 03-13-2012, 06:11 PM
Stinger4me Stinger4me is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: U.S.
Posts: 212
Likes: 11
Liked 40 Times in 17 Posts
Default

Sapporo; I have sent you a PM.

Stinger
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 03-13-2012, 06:23 PM
steamloco76's Avatar
steamloco76 steamloco76 is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Western Pennsylvania
Posts: 3,676
Likes: 1,769
Liked 3,702 Times in 1,242 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by nipster View Post
Any of you that have the model 22 actually fire rimmed 45 auto in them? After doing a little research I found that ammo choices are limited and it's kind of hard to find. I find the moon clip gimmick kind of bothersome. I borrowed a buddy's Taurus Judge once and ran 45 auto through it using moon clips. First time I had ever had to use them in a weapon. Found it kind of clunky.
I use the RIMZ brand polycarbonate moonclips in my 22-4 and 625-8 with great success. Nothing 'clunky' about it. You can burn through a pile of 45 ACP fast with 20-30 loaded clips in the old range bag! I got a stellar deal on my slightly used TRR 22-4 a year back, and though I didn't pay $700 for it, I wouldn't sell it for that now!
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 03-13-2012, 07:11 PM
David Sinko David Sinko is offline
Member
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Posts: 2,089
Likes: 0
Liked 376 Times in 217 Posts
Default

A 625-4 is a .45 ACP. I have three of them and in my opinion they are the best version of 625 that was ever made. If you have a chance to buy one, go for it.

Dave Sinko
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #25  
Old 03-13-2012, 07:32 PM
Dennis The B's Avatar
Dennis The B Dennis The B is offline
US Veteran
45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request 45 ACP Revolver Info Request  
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: SE Mich - O/S Detroit
Posts: 3,159
Likes: 2,026
Liked 2,801 Times in 1,017 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by sapporo View Post
Dennis,
That is the exact revolver that I'm looking for. Impossible to find around me. What did they sell for new? Max Retail price? Thanks
I bought mine in 2010, and the price was $729. With the ship date of 2007, mine evidently sat on the shelf for a couple of years. At the time, I could have bought a similar Thunder Ranch edition, but I liked the plain utilitarian looks of the standard model.

The Ahrends stocks make it great to shoot, but I do like the Altamont version of the magnas. I think the originals are also Altamonts, but in the original service stocks silhouette.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
45acp, ahrends, browning, colt, kimber, m1917, military, model 1917, model 21, model 625, n-frame, nightguard, pachmayr, polymer, remington, rosewood, silhouette, smith & wesson, smith and wesson, starline, taurus, winchester

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Info request on a S&W 32 Long Revolver George61 S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 2 12-26-2015 01:51 PM
Request for info on my .32 hammerless revolver S&Wloverjim S&W Antiques 5 03-08-2014 09:44 AM
Revolver info request E Z MUNNY S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 2 02-12-2013 01:26 PM
Info Request on .32 Long Revolver Mobilman44 S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 10 08-13-2011 08:13 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 07:35 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)