My First Revolver - 1947 S&W K-22 Masterpiece "One-Liner"

[H Richard]

The value's of the older S&W's (and most guns) are in the "original" configuration. The hook is set and the vintage S&W's will reel you in now. From a 686 for PPC competition in the 80's to over 40 revolvers now, with half of them dating to before WWII, and I am still looking. The K22's are my favorites, with a 17-4, a K22 Outdoorsman, a 63 and a 617. You will love yours.

 

[alex85]

Very nice, you will love it, I have one from 1950 with original box and accessories, It was the second vintage Smith that I purchased and it is a fantastic gun, my wife likes it better than any I own....

I think this will be my go-to teaching pistol from now on. A lot of my female friends have had issue with 9mm recoil. The .22 conversion kit i've got helps with the 1911, but it can't compare to the solid heft of this piece. As long as they can comfortably hold it on target, I don't think recoil will be an issue.

Alex,

Your 1st Smith is certainly a winner! It actually has the proper period "target" hammer for it's vintage. I wouldn't rush into wanting to change it for a later model target hammer that's incorrect vintage for your gun.

Here's some videos for stripping:
SMITH & WESSON REVOLVER PART 1 - YouTube
SMITH & WESSON MODEL 10 SERVICE REVOLVER PART 1 - YouTube

SMITH & WESSON PART 2 - YouTube
SMITH & WESSON MODEL 10 PART 2 - YouTube

Thanks for the links!

Congrats on that Beautiful K-22 one-liner.
Be careful. The slick actions and triggers combined with
the accuracy and level of fun means you'll be wanting
more than one. I am at three right now, 2 one-liners
and a late 1948 gun. All are outstanding shooters.


Chuck

Beautiful pistols! If only I knew what I was getting myself into...

Welcome to the forum, Alex. I agree with the suggestions for finding a K-38 as a companion to the K-22. They are superb.

Starting to look like .38 / .357 will the next caliber. I like the choice .357 gives me.

Welcome to the forum and congratulations on acquiring a fine revolver. It seems you already have a notion that it won't be your last S&W. Whether you focus on .22 revolvers or expand into the other calibers available in the Masterpiece series (.38 will be easy, .32 a little more difficult and WAY more expensive), you have some fine collecting and even better shooting ahead of you.

Nice photos. Keep posting pics of the new ones as they come your way.

Thanks again. I have a feeling .32 is going to the back of the list. I like what I've researched about .38, and the option for .357 would be great with the right model.

Alex:

Welcome to the forum and welcome to the disease known as S&W. To make our meeting here official... "Hello. My name is Richard and I am a Smithaholic..."

You may see this forum as a friendly place where you can find great information and helpful advice from people who know, BUT BEWARE of the dark underside of the forum, where danger lurks in every corner. These guys and gals will introduce you to S&W delicacies that you never knew existed, and then all of the sudden you will find yourself waking up in the middle of the night, in a cold sweat, knowing that you have to have one (or two , or three...) for yourself... It never ends...

On the bright side - Great Gun! Too bad that you have to wait to take it home. Waiting is hard... It is much easier here in the state just to the east of you.

Oh yeah - Thanks for sharing,

The wait is a killer. I have friends who can have pistols shipped to their door. A baffling thought for a CA resident.

Thanks for the welcome though. I'm really appreciating all the advice I've been picking up.

Nice entrance and welcome. My one liner shoots great with just abt any ammo. It makes me look like I know how to shoot. A good second gun would be something out of the 50's in 357. Some of the pre-war guns like the 22 Outdoorsman is assembled when people cared abt what they did. Have fun and let us know how it shoots, Larry

I really like the idea of a .357 from the post war period.

Instead of cringing over the price of a RM, you might concider a nice pre-27 or an early Highway Patrolman. Both fine N-Frames.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll add those models to my research. A registered magnum certainly isn't within my realm of possibility right now.

Really not much to it. Old one out, new one in. Have done several. I believe there was a time they could be ordered with the Target hammer. Now THOSE were the days.

Thanks for the info. I ordered a NOS (new, old stock) fish hook hammer and trigger, in the standard configuration for 1947. I'm a sucker for redundancy.

Is there any rule about having the original factory hammer and trigger vs NOS replacements? Would that lower / increase the value if put on the pistol?

Alex,

You have made a very fine entry into the world of wheelguns and a stellar entry onto these forums. Welcome aboard and congratulations!

Warning: this will not be your last!

Thanks again! Although, I feel I should have read more of these warnings before. Too late now!

Welcome to the forum! Great looking gun. You now have the disease. I don't know if anyone has advised you on dry-fireing a 22 revolver or not. If you do make sure you have the 22 snap caps. Don't do it without them. Good idea about the renasance wax.

Thanks for the warning. I was careful to find a cylinder that wasn't molested by dry firing. I'll be sure to locate some .22 snap caps.

That is a beautiful gun and a great find, especially here in CA. Older S&W's for sale are becoming more and more scarce daily here due to the draconian gun laws. My personal opinion is that the early post-war guns up to about 1960 were some of S&W's best. Most were made with new equipment and tooling and they still had skilled fitters, polishers and assemblers. When you find a 50 or 65 year old gun like that in nice condition and compare it to a modern "black gun", you will see that there is no comparison. The newer guns have no soul, they are simply "tools".

It really is a rarity in CA. I'm glad I was able to find the right seller, on the opposite shore, who would ship it to my FFL.

I'm still floored by the fitting. I can't figure out how they did the side plate. Nearly seamless. The tolerances are baffling.

The value's of the older S&W's (and most guns) are in the "original" configuration. The hook is set and the vintage S&W's will reel you in now. From a 686 for PPC competition in the 80's to over 40 revolvers now, with half of them dating to before WWII, and I am still looking. The K22's are my favorites, with a 17-4, a K22 Outdoorsman, a 63 and a 617. You will love yours.

Wow, sounds like quite a remarkable collection. I'm starting to see a clear trend among S&W lovers. These are mechanical works of art in addition to being pieces of history. The fact that they are a blast to shoot is a dangerously addictive combination!

One more week until I get my first taste...

 

[Hondo44]

Thanks for the info. I ordered a NOS (new, old stock) fish hook hammer and trigger, in the standard configuration for 1947. I'm a sucker for redundancy.

Is there any rule about having the original factory hammer and trigger vs NOS replacements? Would that lower / increase the value if put on the pistol?

Alex,

The hammer that your gun came with is the correct standard configuration hammer for all K22s from 1946 (1st production after the war) up to about the mid '50s. The official factory term is "Target Speed Hammer" aka the 'fish hook target' by collectors. And so is the trigger.
If by "NOS (new, old stock) fish hook hammer and trigger, in the standard configuration for 1947" you mean the narrow "Speed Hammer" aka 'fish hook', it only came on fixed sighted guns like this:

Having the narrow Speed Hammer in your gun would absolutely adversely affect it's value.

I hope that clarifies the hammers for you.

 

[alex85]

Alex,

The hammer that your gun came with is the correct standard configuration hammer for all K22s from 1946 (1st production after the war) up to about the mid '50s. The official factory term is "Target Speed Hammer" aka the 'fish hook target' by collectors. And so is the trigger.
If by "NOS (new, old stock) fish hook hammer and trigger, in the standard configuration for 1947" you mean the narrow "Speed Hammer" aka 'fish hook', it only came on fixed sighted guns like this:

Having the narrow Speed Hammer in your gun would absolutely adversely affect it's value.

I hope that clarifies the hammers for you.

Thanks a lot for the clarification. I was confusing the "Target Speed Hammer" with the .500 wide "Target Hammer" that I was seeing on later K-22s. I thought the standard .375" wide hammer was the fish hook. The replacement hammer I ordered is indeed the "Target Speed Hammer".

So .265" wide is the "fish hook" or "speed hammer", .375" wide is the "target speed hammer", and .500" wide is the "target hammer" from later era k-22s?

If so, how would replacing the current hammer with an exact replacement (except in much better condition on account of never being used and having much richer color case hardening) affect the value?

 

[Hondo44]

Thanks a lot for the clarification. I was confusing the "Target Speed Hammer" with the .500 wide "Target Hammer" that I was seeing on later K-22s. I thought the standard .375" wide hammer was the fish hook. The replacement hammer I ordered is indeed the "Target Speed Hammer".

So .265" wide is the "fish hook" or "speed hammer", .375" wide is the "target speed hammer", and .500" wide is the "target hammer" from later era k-22s?

If so, how would replacing the current hammer with an exact replacement (except in much better condition on account of never being used and having much richer color case hardening) affect the value?

Yes, that's correct.

What's in there now looks awfully good. I see no negative affect on value; certainly an improvement and increase in value as much as the parts cost. It's not a serial numbered part and more like maintenance just as if you had replaced a malfunctioning part. Other opinions may differ.

 

[HWayne]

My head is spinning after reading this thread! So much more I need to learn!
-H

 

[alex85]

My K-22 is finally home! I had the chance to piece together a kit while I was waiting for the 10 days to pass.

To my surprise, shooting with these grips is profoundly uncomfortable. Coming from CZ / 1911 world, the ergos of the magna grips make me feel as if I'm contorting my fingers. I'd like the trigger to be forward about an inch from where it is!

That said, I ordered some Pachmayr Gripper grips. Not pretty, but it'll allow me to save the original grips in the box and use something that I hope is A LOT more comfortable. It was so uncomfortable that I actually shot better with my left hand... This was a huge surprise to say the least.

Here's a picture of the final kit. If you had stepped into a store in 1947 to buy this gun, the box and screwdriver should be period correct. Additionally, in 1946 Winchester switched to the new box design for "Leader" ammo. This should appear exactly as if it were 1947. I have an original "helpful hints" booklet on its way.

 

[DCWilson]

Grip position is a funny thing. Once you get used to shooting a particular class or brand of gun, others can feel incorrect or at least peculiar. The first double-action Colt I bought I couldn't figure out what to do with my passive fingers. They didn't seem to fall to rest in a reasonable position.

One of the things you might try on your gun would be a T-grip adapter. These push the three gripping fingers of your hand further forward and give your forefinger a better position on the trigger. Pachmayrs have some extra rubber in front of the forestrap, so they do pretty much the same thing. If you have a chance, look for some K-frame diamond target stocks. These became available in 1950, and a lot of Masterpiece owners bought some to improve (or at least change) the way they held their guns.

 

[Hondo44]

Yes! What David said.

Target guns need target stocks.

 

[Waveform]

My K-22 is finally home! I had the chance to piece together a kit while I was waiting for the 10 days to pass.

To my surprise, shooting with these grips is profoundly uncomfortable. Coming from CZ / 1911 world, the ergos of the magna grips make me feel as if I'm contorting my fingers. I'd like the trigger to be forward about an inch from where it is!

That said, I ordered some Pachmayr Gripper grips. Not pretty, but it'll allow me to save the original grips in the box and use something that I hope is A LOT more comfortable. It was so uncomfortable that I actually shot better with my left hand... This was a huge surprise to say the least.

Here's a picture of the final kit. If you had stepped into a store in 1947 to buy this gun, the box and screwdriver should be period correct. Additionally, in 1946 Winchester switched to the new box design for "Leader" ammo. This should appear exactly as if it were 1947. I have an original "helpful hints" booklet on its way.

Beautiful K-22 - congratulations! A 27-2 was my "gateway drug" into S&W P&R revolvers but my all-around favorite is the K-22. Careful- they are addicting as you have already been warned! I have an older brother to yours from 1946 that I rescued from a pawn shop for a song. It's cosmetically challenged but a fantastic shooter.



I have the diamond magnas that serial to the gun (they look pretty rough too) but found the Herrett's Shooting Star K frame grips in a bin of used grips at a LGS and refinished them. I have $5 invested in these and find they are very comfortable for shooting.

My other K-22 is a four-liner from around 1956 (if I remember correctly). This one is on the opposite end of the condition scale and very mint. These target stocks are supremely comfortable and while they are not "correct" for your one-liner they would look and feel great nonetheless.



The Pachmayr grips are a form follows function decision but if you can find a nice set of wood stocks you might get the best of both. If any LGS in your area have bins of old grips it can be worth the trouble to rummage around in them and see what you can find. You never know what bargains might be lying there.

Wave

 

[Cpo1944]

My 1935 Outdoorsman with standard stocks took just a little getting used to- most of my other guns have targets-, but now I like the small stocks so much I put a similar set on my m-18.
I guess I`m lucky and I adapt to new things easily- all except for Glock !!!

 

[BigBill]

Grip position is a funny thing. Once you get used to shooting a particular class or brand of gun, others can feel incorrect or at least peculiar. The first double-action Colt I bought I couldn't figure out what to do with my passive fingers. They didn't seem to fall to rest in a reasonable position.

The colt police positive revolver in 22lr just doesn't feel right in my hand too. The colt officers target model is built on the 41 frame feels much better. But nothing comes close to the fit and balance of my s&w k22 it feels like God made it for my hand. Or maybe God made me for it.

I have to hit the range soon with all my 22cal handguns.

 

[shouldazagged]

It is a little-known law that every handgun owner must acquire a standard-barrel Model 10 and a Model 15. You have been warned.

Then come the 19, the 36, the 640...

You're in deep guacamole.

 

[DRYHEAT]

I'd look for some early 50's K diamond Target Stocks for your new prize. Much better than the "rubbers". These I had redone by one of the best: DWFAN!

These are going on my 98% November '47 K22… when I finally get it.

 

[alex85]

Grip position is a funny thing. Once you get used to shooting a particular class or brand of gun, others can feel incorrect or at least peculiar. The first double-action Colt I bought I couldn't figure out what to do with my passive fingers. They didn't seem to fall to rest in a reasonable position.

One of the things you might try on your gun would be a T-grip adapter. These push the three gripping fingers of your hand further forward and give your forefinger a better position on the trigger. Pachmayrs have some extra rubber in front of the forestrap, so they do pretty much the same thing. If you have a chance, look for some K-frame diamond target stocks. These became available in 1950, and a lot of Masterpiece owners bought some to improve (or at least change) the way they held their guns.

After my Pachmayr Grippers arrived I quickly realized the benefit of having extra material in front of and behind the grip strap. When I first started searching for K-22s (and not knowing what T-grips were) I saw a few with T-grips that looked dated and funny. Now it all makes a lot more sense. I'm going to start researching wood target stocks; it looks like there's a ton of options.

Yes! What David said.

Target guns need target stocks.

Wow, that is just beautiful.

Beautiful K-22 - congratulations! A 27-2 was my "gateway drug" into S&W P&R revolvers but my all-around favorite is the K-22. Careful- they are addicting as you have already been warned! I have an older brother to yours from 1946 that I rescued from a pawn shop for a song. It's cosmetically challenged but a fantastic shooter.



I have the diamond magnas that serial to the gun (they look pretty rough too) but found the Herrett's Shooting Star K frame grips in a bin of used grips at a LGS and refinished them. I have $5 invested in these and find they are very comfortable for shooting.

My other K-22 is a four-liner from around 1956 (if I remember correctly). This one is on the opposite end of the condition scale and very mint. These target stocks are supremely comfortable and while they are not "correct" for your one-liner they would look and feel great nonetheless.



The Pachmayr grips are a form follows function decision but if you can find a nice set of wood stocks you might get the best of both. If any LGS in your area have bins of old grips it can be worth the trouble to rummage around in them and see what you can find. You never know what bargains might be lying there.

Wave

I really like the look of those target stocks. With the original stocks safely in the box, I'm not too worried about keeping it period correct. Are there any stocks that fit better than others? Or is it really up to personal preference? For now, I really enjoy the Pachmayr Grippers. They point perfectly and put my finger just where it needs to be.

My 1935 Outdoorsman with standard stocks took just a little getting used to- most of my other guns have targets-, but now I like the small stocks so much I put a similar set on my m-18.
I guess I`m lucky and I adapt to new things easily- all except for Glock !!!

I'm jealous. It might be a hand condition, but I can't believe how contorted my hands felt when I got up high on the grip. After loving the Pachmayr Grippers, I'm guessing the S&W target stocks will accomplish the same thing.

I'd look for some early 50's K diamond Target Stocks for your new prize. Much better than the "rubbers". These I had redone by one of the best: DWFAN!

These are going on my 98% November '47 K22… when I finally get it.

These are really growing on me. What direction would I go in for something similar but with finger grooves / more ergonomically shaped? I'd like the front and back strap covered i.e. like the Pachmayrs.

I know these Pachmayr Gripper "rubbers" are quite atrocious compared to some nice target stocks, but for now they make me want to shoot the K-22 again ASAP. When I left the range on Thursday I was quite worried that revolvers weren't going to be my thing. Luckily it was just the Magna grips.

 

[sunnyd]

My outdoorsman has the original grips and they feel a little small in my hand. However I can't bear to take them off because the checkering is so beautiful and I think it would loose some of its character. Have recently purchased a k38 target that I am waiting to receive. It should make a great companion gun. Oh, did I mention that I also have a 17-3 on the way and am looking at another k22? What is happening to me??????????

 

[Waveform]

You might like one of the finger grooved wood grips made by Eagle Grips. They will install S&W medallions if you want. Just remember when you are looking at grips you have a square butt K frame. Lots of options beyond OEM without resorting to black rubber. Also consider older target stocks made by Herrett's or Jay Scott. eBay has a lot of grips to look at as well as GunBroker. Have fun!

K/L Frame Square Butt G |K/L Frame Square Butt Grips Hand Gun Grips, Gun Handles, Pistol Grip from Eagle Grips - Eagle Grips Inc. - Gun Grips

 

[Green Frog]

After my Pachmayr Grippers arrived I quickly realized the benefit of having extra material in front of and behind the grip strap. When I first started searching for K-22s (and not knowing what T-grips were) I saw a few with T-grips that looked dated and funny. Now it all makes a lot more sense. I'm going to start researching wood target stocks; it looks like there's a ton of options.

Now there's an understatement! Since the basic design of the K-frame has been around over 100 years and literally millions of them have been made in various iterations, there have been so many grips made for this frame type that you could spend your life and fortune just on collecting K-frame grips! I would suggest that you carefully preserve the originals for their contribution to the overall collectibility of the gun, then shoot the gun with whatever variety of grip style (old or new, mild or wild) fits your hand and shooting style best. This is not a test and there is no wrong answer!

Welcome to the Madness,
Froggie

 

[douk]

Nice looking K22......I guess......I'm no expert, but I did do some research. When I joined the forum the banner at the top of the page featured a K22. The banner is long gone, but the K22 keeps coming back like all classics that withstand the test of time.
I had a couple of topics about it. Here is one.
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...-can-anything-done-about-minor-scratches.html
It's fun when you can relate to a post. I just renewed my CWP that got me thinking it's time to price the K22 again so a Bing search led me to your post and here I am again just rambling on and on.
It's a good thing I don't shoot it anymore because I heard 22L is hard to come by and expensive.

 

[iskra]

First, maybe 'old man' blindness, but I see nothing at all wrong with your hammer and I do wonder if a replacement will look better. If you're picturing something of those wild looking Thunder Ranch color case hardened frames or the like, none of the early Pre 14 vintage guns were like that from what Ive seen or for that matter my own small stock of them.
Then too, I suppose I'm something of a romantic in that absent some real tilt, I do like originality. While likely if you do a proper job of substituting the same hammer design, no one will know. You will know and it will no longer be "original". Really I suppose more than the gun itself, it's all about where you're coming from.
Guilding the Lily has never been my 'thing'.

And all here simply ...
My take