S&W Model 48-4

[jake1945]

I have this revolver that I got from my father-in-law a few years ago. It is 22 WMR with 4 inch barrel, serial #86K5781. It's in like new condition. First, I'd like to know when it was made. Second, I see on auction sites that these revolvers command pretty high prices. What makes them so 'special'?
Thank you

[ken158]

When you look at auction, be sure to check sold prices... not asking prices. There are a crazy amount of most every model out there that have been made for years and most everyone that wants to sell one knows a friend who has a brother in law’s with an uncle who has a co-worker that got a big price for one almost exactly like the one I have for sale...

[D Brown]

According to the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 4th Edition, your gun shipped from the factory in 1980.

[Lobster Picnic]

I believe the 4" Model 48 is fairly rare. Standard barrel was 6" and also was available with 8-3/8" barrel. 1980 means it will have a pinned barrel and recessed cylinder charge holes, two features of classic collectable Smiths.

As a wild guess I'd say your Model 48 is worth about $1000.

[22hipower]

I have a four inch a couple years older than yours. I think the four inch is less often seen than the six or 8 3/8 but probably not rare. Where I shop the 8 3/8s turns up more often than the others and I'm still looking for a six inch. The S&W Standard Catalog 4th Edition (now two years old) says $1100 in excellent condition but that seems a little high. Last one I bought was a 8 3/8 -3 for $730 in what I would call excellent condition. Nice gun, enjoy. Here's my four inch.

Jeff
SWCA #1457