Can I get a brief history of the Pre-17?

[ckpj99]

I've decided now that I am a S&W guy when it comes to handguns. My small collection (literally the smallest number allowing me to use the word "collection") includes two pieces from the 1970s.

The first is a Model 10-6 4in HB square butt (shop said it was a trade-in, but who knows). It has the nicest trigger I've ever felt on any gun. Single action has to be well under 2 lbs, DA is smooth as silk. I have a Miculek grip on it.

My second is a Model 36 no dash 3in in nickel. The trigger isn't great. I suppose it's typical for a j-frame. I have hogue boot/bantam style grips on it in rosewood. It's gorgeous.

Now, I'm dying to get a .22. I have a H&R from the 30s, which is really not worth shooting. The steel is super soft. After some tweeking, it's reliable in SA, but not DA. It's more of an heirloom anyway.

I went into my LGS about a month ago and saw that they has a k-22 pre 17. I don't know anything about these guns. This one has a six inch barrel I think. It locks up tight. The finish isn't perfect, a few spots here and there, I'd say 80-85%. Someone painted the front sight white (which make me worried that it's shot out, which I'd check before I bought it).

The trouble is that they want about $650 for it. For some reason, I got it in my head that it was $550 and went in to buy it yesterday. However at $650, I thought I'd better do some more research.

Can anyone give me a brief history of a pre-17 k-22 whatever you want to call it. I've heard things like "single line" and "outdoorsman" and five screw (vs four screw I suppose). This gun is not a collector piece, it was and will be a shooter. However, I'd like to know what I'm getting into.

Thanks!

 

[EdF702]

It all depends on condition, both outside and in... If it's been carries a lot and shot a little (not common with .22s) then that price "might" be fair.

If it's got 100,000 down the pipe, well then not so much. BUT, they don't make a better .22 than the pre 17s, it will last you and yours for several lifetimes, even a little maintenance may be required.

Is it a "one line gun"? Does everything match? (Cylinder, frame, barrel and grips).... Are the grips, if not numbers matching, at least "correct" for the gun?

These are the type questions you need to be able to answer to make "accurate decisions"..... That being said, if you want it, and it's not gonna put you in a bind... Buy it.... They aren't making any more of those! One only worries about money before it's spent... If you get something you want and you can afford it, why worry about a "deal".

Life is short, be happy!

 

[Hondo44]

Hi ck,

5 screws are the earliest and most desired, explained here:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-hand-ejectors-1896-1961/326457-identify-your-gun.html

One liner means a very early post war gun and only has 'Made In USA' on right frame side. Later guns have 4 line address.

If the barrel doesn't have a rib on it, it's a pre war and worth a whole lot more.

$650 is almost an unheard of price these days for a pre 17 unless it's abused and has less than 50% blue left or original grips missing. And maybe they'll deal a little. Pretty darn hard to shoot out a Smith .22.

Should have diamond (big uncheckered diamond around the screw) Magna grips or diamond targets. The serial number on the butt of the gun will match the # stamped on the backside of the right grip if grips are original.

Hope that helps. If you get a serial # we can date it for you. A photo would be great.