I don't have the latest copy of the Standard Catalog of S&W but my 4th edition copy on pg. 137 refers the Pre-Model 17 as K-22 Masterpiece and the Pre-Model 18 as K-22 Combat Masterpiece.
S&W Model 18-3
- Thread starter grouser63
- Start date
You are correct, Crookedcreek. S&W advertising (All Model Circular, catalogs and box labels) called it the Combat Masterpiece (whether .38 or .22 caliber). Back in the day, Gun Digest and Shooter's Bible followed the S&W lead on this. Unfortunately, nearly all "collector" books refer to it as a K-22 (or K-38) Combat Masterpiece. We're kind of stuck with that.
Note: after model numbers started, the spec sheet included in the box did say K-22 (or K-38) Combat Masterpiece for some reason. That is the only place it ever occurred in S&W literature, and it may be that is where the inaccurate name came from.
On the 6" units (and later 8 3/8"), the nomenclature was K-22 Masterpiece. Never the K-22 Target Masterpiece (or K-38 or K-32). "Target" was never a part of the name.
Note: after model numbers started, the spec sheet included in the box did say K-22 (or K-38) Combat Masterpiece for some reason. That is the only place it ever occurred in S&W literature, and it may be that is where the inaccurate name came from.
On the 6" units (and later 8 3/8"), the nomenclature was K-22 Masterpiece. Never the K-22 Target Masterpiece (or K-38 or K-32). "Target" was never a part of the name.
Crookedcreek
Member
@JP@AK, Thanks for the clarification/education. Looks like one can't be called 'wrong' by using either name....as long as 'Target' is dropped fron the vocabulary! To be on the safe side, I might just start reffering to hammers, triggers, and grips as 'wide, wide, and big'...WWB in place of TTT. To add to the confusion, I've seen where some use the third 'T' to describe 'Target Sights' and others 'Target Grips'. And, how about 'A' for "Adjustable Sights'! I guess the old adage of 'Call me anything...but late for dinner' might be acceptable.
The third T is for the stocks.
Chuckdaman24d
Member
- Joined
- Aug 18, 2011
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- 14
- Reaction score
- 6
Did that gun come with Target trigger and hammer from the factory?
I do not have a letter for it but I have no doubt it was a special order gun.
Crookedcreek
Member
Do you have the original box, I'm assuming not?
No box. It's for sale. You could buy it and request a letter for it. There is no indication that the features are anything but factory.
Crookedcreek
Member
I'm not doubting that it's all factory, box label would have shed some light, but I'm sure you knew that.
It's a good looker, but I don't 'need' a second one....at this time!
My own curiosity got the best of me so I just requested a letter. Will report. It will be off my tables this weekend and until the letter arrives.
Crookedcreek
Member
Having the letter can only add value should you decide to sell later.
Posts 14, 16 and 17 ….
TT and TH were factory per the box label. I don't know about the RR/WO the box isn't marked for those. Belonged to a policeman in Ludlow MA - next town over from the factory. He could have easily had them added back in the day of one day service for cops. I too took advantage of that ! Drop gun off - go have lunch or go to Springfield Armory museum. Go back and pick up gun - no charge and sometimes a free set of new grips.
TT and TH were factory per the box label. I don't know about the RR/WO the box isn't marked for those. Belonged to a policeman in Ludlow MA - next town over from the factory. He could have easily had them added back in the day of one day service for cops. I too took advantage of that ! Drop gun off - go have lunch or go to Springfield Armory museum. Go back and pick up gun - no charge and sometimes a free set of new grips.
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Engine49guy
Member
This thread is a little confusing, the OP appears to be a WTS listing but its in the 1961-1980 revolver discussion section .
Is it a FS ad or for discussing Model 18's?
Im fine either way as 18's are my favorite.
Is it a FS ad or for discussing Model 18's?
Im fine either way as 18's are my favorite.
gfors
Member
Here's mine. 18-3, Colorado State Patrol. A box, not "the" box. Box has sticker from Gart Brothers. Letter confirms delivery to Gart, but numbers don't match gun. Likely scenario: when the Trooper bought the gun, from CSP, the armorer grabbed a box, off the shelf, and put the gun it.
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Wow, a 22 LR revolver for the State Police. I'm wondering what it was used for, training?
Crookedcreek
Member
Right or wrong, that's what I've always 'understood' the reasoning (by S&W) for having 'identical' models of 'Combat Masterpiece' revolvers for police and military....22 for training and 38 for 'real'. Same 'feel' (basically!), lower cost training. Maybe S&W historians here know the 'rest of the story'?
OP here. I have been a lurker for a long time, like the S&W revolvers I've had over the years. It's time to downsize more. I thought I posted in the for sale section.
Engine49guy
Member
The forum wouldnt allow people to post pics and discuss their guns in a FS thread, Iirc the only post allowed is "I will take it".
The 18 is a popular model and sparks alot of interest, you might consider placing an ad in the FS section, probably too late to move it.
Good luck with your sale !
