22LR
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Jim Watson
Member
I am of the generation that considers that revolver completely identified as a "K-22." We would be proud that we had a "five screw" version.
It is one of the Masterpiece series of target models, made in 1953 according to SCSW.
It is one of the Masterpiece series of target models, made in 1953 according to SCSW.
I agree with Jim.
It's a K22 Masterpiece. Also referred to as a Pre Model 17 because it was designated the Mod 17 in June of 1957. And eventually stamped as such in the yoke.
It was also available in a 4" version known as the K22 Combat Masterpiece.
It's a K22 Masterpiece. Also referred to as a Pre Model 17 because it was designated the Mod 17 in June of 1957. And eventually stamped as such in the yoke.
It was also available in a 4" version known as the K22 Combat Masterpiece.
larryofcc
Member
Your K-22 Masterpiece also has a 1st year target hammer.
Generally they go for $500- $1,000 depending on condition and year made. Big Larry
Generally they go for $500- $1,000 depending on condition and year made. Big Larry
jsfricks
Member
You'll love shooting that one. They are very accurate.
Point 357
US Veteran
And later designated the Model 18? Why two different model numbers for what is essentially the same gun with a shorter barrel length?
jsfricks
Member
Because they did have different barrel lengths. Same as the K38. If you wanted a K frame 38 Special with a 6" barrel you bought the model 14. But if you wanted a K frame 38 Special with a 4" barrel you bought the model 15. It was a way of specifying which one you wanted just by using a model number. Before model numbers if you wanted to order a 4" K38 or K22 with a 4" barrel you ordered a Combat Masterpiece. If you wanted a 6" K38 or K22 you ordered the Masterpiece.
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Good question.
Pre war there's no precedent, a certain frame size and caliber gun had the same model name, regardless of barrel length.
Different names for the same model but with different barrel lengths seems to first appear post WWII. The K22 and K38, etc., were the Combat Masterpiece with 4" and Masterpiece w/6" barrel even before model numbers were introduced in 1957. There are exceptions later on and in fact the Mod 18 was dropped and then the Mod 17 came out with a 4" barrel. Apparently an attempt to consolidate/simplify models.
After WWII we also see a change in Model name determined by fixed or target model sights which carried over into the Model # era, for example: Model 1950 44 Military (pre 21) and 1950 44 Target (pre 24).
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Point 357
US Veteran
OK, thanks guys!
