Is it really a S&W 17

[Hub1965]

I need to know if the following is a genuine Model 17 as advertised. Help please.
Serial number 230,xxx on the bottom of the grip frame.
22LR
4” barrel

I have not seen pictures of stampings/marks on the yoke yet.

The information I’ve been able to find online suggests the SN is from a K-frame made 1909-1915. If true, this would not be a Model 17 nor K-22. Correct? And not even originally a 22LR from the factory.

Given it has a 4” barrel, it suggests the barrel is from a Model 18, but not necessarily absolutely true. Correct?
I do not think it is a later model firearm such as 1970s or later. I think it is earlier. Furthermore, the front site is a ramp sight like the Model 18. It is not a Patridge-style front sight that is typical on a Model 17.

The seller claims it is a S&W 17. Given the serial number and the 4” barrel with ramp front sight, I’m guessing it is a centerfire k-frame converted to 22LR and a Model 18 barrel. What do you think this firearm is or how it came to be?
Thanks!

 

[Rudi]

Any pics?

 

[hkcavalier]

Based on your description I don't think there's any way it's S/N 230,xxx. Much more likely it has a K in front of the number.

S/N K230,xxx is too early for model numbers. It's probably a pre-model 18 or more accurately a K-22 Combat Masterpiece.

But without pictures we're playing the gun version of the Guess Who kid's game.

 

[JP@AK]

Assuming the serial number is actually K230xxx, it is a .22 Combat Masterpiece from 1955. It should have a screw at the top of the sideplate, near the hammer. It would not have a model number.

As for being from the 1909-1915 period, there were no K frame .22 revolvers during that time.

My guess is that someone failed to report the K because at that time there would be a large space between the letter and the first digit.

 

[Hub1965]

Thank you. Part of the mystery is solved. This firearm is highly engraved. The K is FAR to the left of the numerical portion of the serial number and nicely “camouflaged” in the engraving. It is a 1954 and thereby predates the Model 17.

However, my remaining questions pertain to the 4” barrel with the Patridge front sight. Is that correct and original?
I appreciate the continued support and education.

 

[RKmesa]

Hub:

Most of the .22 Combat Masterpieces (4" barrel) shipped with a Baughman ramp front sight, like this aftermarket engraved K201734 that shipped in January 1954:





However, there were always exceptions, like this 4-screw aftermarket engraved 22 Combat Masterpiece that letters as shipping in September 1958 with a red post font sight...





We would LOVE to see some photos of your K230XXX. If it was factory engraved, it could have been a special order gun and could have shipped with the Patridge front sight, rather than the Baughman ramp. You will probably need to request an Historical Letter to confirm the configuration of the gun when it left the factory.

All the best,

 

[JP@AK]

It is a 1954 and thereby predates the Model 17.

Only a letter can confirm the actual ship date, but I doubt it is from 1954.
K225815 shipped in February 1955.
K232960 shipped in June 1955.
K233560 shipped in December 1955.

Also, in this case, it predates the Model 18.