Help value this K-22

[Engine49guy]

IMO your K-22 "Combat Masterpiece" (Pre Model 18) is probably a 1953 gun and likely worth $900 - $1100 since it has the original stocks and target hammer option not often seen on the 4"ers with box as proof it is original to the gun. A reputable auction house might bring up to $1600 to the right buyer).

I have always heard those funky marks that flank the barrels right side rollstamp called "Finnials" def, an ornament at the top, end, or corner of an object. "ornate curtain poles with decorative finials"

Prior to the adoption of the Model numbering system in 1957 S&W revolvers simply had names, the K refers to the frame size and 22 is the caliber , Prior to 1949 the K-22 was only offered with a 6" barrel, Post war versions were called the "K-22 Masterpiece", when the 4" version was offered it became the "K-22 Combat Masteriece" to distinguish it from the 6" version.

If you would like to follow its evolution here is a link to an informal pictorial essay, (scroll down to post 26 to begin)
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1961-1980/365528-some-combat-masterpiece-eye-candy.html

 

[Candrews86]

Great info Engine49guy, thanks! Vigil617, you had mentioned the serial number being on the bottom of the box, it's there but has faded over time. Looks like old grease pencil.

 

[JSR III]

S&W jargon can be very confusing. The company came out with a gun and then shortened the barrel or changed it from fixed to target sights and it became a different gun. Keeping track of these names and then their subsequent Model numbers is a daunting task even for the "experienced" collector.

My current love, the .22/32 HFT started to slack off sales wise when S&W came out with the K 22's in the mid 1930's. Around the same time, they shortened the barrel from 6" to 4" and called it the kit gun. I have had occasion several times to contact auction sellers and advise them that their 6" barreled .22/32 was not a "kit"gun. If you look on the big online sites there is one listed like that now. So even those in the business get confused by the many S&W terms.

Luckily, we have this fine forum to visit and learn everything there is to know about S&W.

 

[vigil617]

Great info Engine49guy, thanks! Vigil617, you had mentioned the serial number being on the bottom of the box, it's there but has faded over time. Looks like old grease pencil.

If what you can see of the number matches what's on the butt of your CM (and a few other places), then you've got the complete package as far as value is concerned. I'd venture that you're in the $1,000 range now for sure.

The location and grease pencilling of the number are right in line with what was being done at the time on boxes from the factory.

You scored, my friend!

Here's mine, wearing "dress shoes" instead of the original Magnas that came with it. I don't have a box, though!