K-22 or Model 17 not sure age or model

[tosarge]

I recently aquired this S&W 22lr. revolver. I believe it to be a K-22 or a Model 17 (not sure which is proper name). It has a 6 in barrel and adjustable rear sight. Under the grips on the frame is the Ser# K 299xxx The grips are not diamond cut but I do believe them to be original for the gun, just due to the aging look and markings. It has 3 screws on the frame and 1 screw in front of the trigger guard. The #'s on the inside cylinder hinge are 1687. I'm looking for the age and worth of this gun so I can sound smart when someone asks me about it. It fired beautifully and flawlessly at the range. I got it from a friend who said it was his family for a long time. Thanks

 

[s&wchad]

The serial number dates to 1957 and is close to the introduction of model numbers. If the frame is marked "MOD 17" in the yoke cut, it's a Model 17. If it's not marked, it's simply a K-22 Masterpiece (pre-17). Either way, it's a 4 screw K-22.

It does have a target hammer. The non-relieved smooth target stocks are a bit earlier than the gun and are a nice touch. It's hard to tell the condition from the photos, but it's probably worth somewhere between $550 and $650.

 

[Retired W4]

Those stocks are sweet. It's hard to tell by the photos but it looks to have a 10 groove back strap, which could go either way in 1957.

 

[tosarge]

Thanks to both of you for quick reply. And there are no other markings in the 'yoke' cut. I've included another photo of the back of stock/grip. They also fit down lower over the frame bottom so you have to remove them to see the ser#. But these grips feel great in hand. This is a great site, I was getting conflicting info from searching many other places..thanks again.