Big day for this SWForum newbie: thanks to alla y'all, got my copy of SCSW in the mail, went to the gun show today and bought a 6" 14-4 (pics to follow), but I need help with deciding on a K-22. I think it's a 5-screw, and I stupidly didn't note the dash number but if I am reading my new SCSW right, serial # K173987 should be 1952. The cylinder felt tight, nice trigger pull, but the finish was pretty flat; nowhere like the lustrous 14-4 blueing. Where should the gas ring be located? Seller is asking $575. Thoughts?

I'm thinking of this as a plinker and an intro shooter for the lady. I was also considering a 617-1 I saw at the show (seller would not budge at $695), but A) it had more cylinder play and B) I think the full underlug might be too heavy for the lady, though I'd feel better about putting her in charge of maintenance on a stainless piece.

Oh, and on the 14-4, am I correct that the gas ring is on the cylinder? I did check the SCSW and the seller pointed it out, but I am too ignorant to be sure he was right. It's a done deal either way, but I'd love to know.

THANK YOU!

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There is no dash number on pre 17's. 1952 is a close date and only a $50 letter will refine the date.

this vintage smith had a flatter finish, or satin blue finish. Looks good and maybe original. The price is a good one based on what I see. I'd buy it.


Charlie

Gotta go with RdrBill all the way on this one. Buy the K22!!

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Go big or stay home

S&W used a matte finish in the post WW2 era to meet demand. If you want a K-22 in bright blue finish to match your 14-4, I would look for a Model 17 from that same era. 17-3 or 17-4 should be a good match.

Everyone who said to buy the K-22 is right. Just do it. The price is fair, and the quality and accuracy of these guns is outstanding.

A lot of people don't know they need a K-22 until they actually have a chance to shoot one a couple of times. They are excellent training guns for the .38s built on the same frame, and they are first rate plinkers and target pistols in their own right.

If you buy it and find for some incomprehensible reason that it is not the right gun for you or the miz, you can sell it immediately for close to (or maybe even a little above) what you paid for it. Where is the downside?

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David Wilson

That K-22 WILL become your favorite gun.

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Why, I aughta.....

I have a K22 and it's an excellent shooter and mine had the dull blue also but in the picture it will look shiny because I've applied several coats of Renaissance wax to it. It was made in 1955 by the way and it was the first 5 screw I owned.

Ok lads I'm in line for it...

Gentlemen, thank you for the advice.

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Yes, buy the K22! I had (still kinda have it) one, 5 screw and it was a fantastic gun. Just felt right and shot like a dream. An old friend of mine, in his late '60's told me he had one that belonged to his Father but it had been stolen in the '80's. He's an old 'Nam Vet and a good friend so I sold him mine for $600 a few month's ago with the stipulation that if he tired of it or when he passed on it would come back to me at the same price. His only child (daughter) isn't into guns and is aware of this so I'll probably get it back someday. We shoot alot together so I still get to use it plus I did a friend and old Door Gunner a good turn. it works out.
You will not regret getting that gun!
RD

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Got a Phd from Hard Knocks U