Help Identifying this revolver

[DrLopez521]

I inherited this revolver. Looking for help to identify. Have attached photos to show all the info requested in the guidelines.
Thank you so much!
The model number looks to be: J M 89643
Type: Barrel ejects to the left
Serial : K 246XX
Caliber: 22 Long Rifle CTG
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Sights: I think adjustable
Screws: I think 3

 

[steelslaver]

That is a K22 from the late 40s. The barrel is actually 6" as you measure it from face of cylinder Those are adjustable sights and it has 5 screws 1 is hidden by the stocks and the other is the one in front of the trigger guard. It has what is often called a fish hook hammer. Great revolvers and they are usually very accurate. Enjoy

Here is a 4" from the same time frame

 

[JP@AK]

You have a K-22 Masterpiece that probably shipped in the Spring of 1948. Everything, including the stocks, appears to be original. A nice piece to inherit!

The letters and numbers in the yoke area are essentially meaningless. They were used only during the assembly process. S&W revolvers of that age did not have model numbers, only model names.

 

[Hawg Rider]

Welcome to the Forum! Congratulations on inheriting one of the finest .22 LR revolvers ever manufactured. The K-22 Masterpiece is an extremely accurate and fun to shoot revolver. Without a lot of recoil or "BOOM" it's a great handgun to teach the ladies and kids how to shoot properly. Here's my K-22, also from 1948 (s/n K40403). Enjoy!

 

[Hondo44]

For the true barrel length, measure the entire barrel, not just what shows beyond the frame.

 

[Mike LaNier]

Nice inheritance! S&W made a number of the K-22 "Masterpieces", but the 'Pre-Model Number' guns (before 1957) and the 5-screw S&W revolvers (pre-1962) are becoming more collectable. I would suggest a factory letter ($100) to go with the gun; it would enhance the value. They shoot good, too...

 

[JP@AK]

the 'Pre-Model Number' guns (before 1957) and the 5-screw S&W revolvers (pre-1962)

Model numbers were assigned in June 1957, but model marked guns didn't ship until 1958. So, the so-called "pre-model number" units shipped all the way through 1957.
The fifth screw disappeared in 1956 (under a management order issued in 1955). Then the K frames had four screw frames until c. 1961, when the fourth screw was eliminated.