K-22 - Pre Model 17 ??

[Candyman]

I saw this at a gun show this weekend, and I couldn't leave it there. I don't have a S&W Standard Catalogue yet, so I am curious on any information I get.

It is a 5 screw model 17 but it doesn't have a model # inside the crane. So is it a Pre 17? I wasn't lucky enough to get the box, tools, etc... but I did get this beautiful wheel gun

If I am wrong and posted this is in the wrong place, please move to proper part of the forum.

Thanks
David aka Candyman

 

[DCWilson]

Yes, a nice pre-17, and probably from 1957. You begin to see model markings on these guns around K325000, not too much higher than your serial number.

Actually, that's a four-screw gun -- the top sideplate screw that helps define a five-screw variety has already been designed out of this specimen.

 

[diamonback68]

Prior to becoming the model 17, it was simply known as a K-22 Masterpiece. Your K-22 was shipped in 1957 , just before model marking began.

 

[Sprefix]

Drool, slobber, wipe, rub, smear, spit,........gotta get towel...(note to self--get a clear plastic cover for keyboard)..............Heavens, that is a nice four screw Masterpiece!!

 

[Engine49guy]

Beautiful revolver from an interesting time in S&W history,

Thanks for sharing it.

 

[Dennis The B]

That's a very nice K22. Enjoy it!

 

[sophie]

Man that K-22 looks nice. Doesn't appear to have had much use. Golly that is purty.

________
James

 

[GF]

That revolver and standard velocity ammo will make you say, "Wow... I didn't think I was THAT good of a shot !?!"



GF

 

[OK Hog Shooter]

That revolver and standard velocity ammo will make you say, "Wow... I didn't think I was THAT good of a shot !?!"



GF

What he said! I use my '52 K-22 as my "warm up" any time l'm target shooting...

Hog

 

[Springfan]

You shoot 'em? I'm getting the picture now: the caretaker philosophy is not universally supported.

 

[PMRet]

Great looking K-22, right on the borderline of the pre-17 to model 17 change.

 

[kennethg]

That is a great catch!! You will enjoy it.

 

[bigmoose]

Woooo eeeee, That's a nice K-22 Masterpiece (I don't believe S&W ever named one of their revolvers "pre 17" haha). Never met a K-22 I didn't like.

 

[Green Frog]

You shoot 'em? I'm getting the picture now: the caretaker philosophy is not universally supported.

If it isn't unfired, shooting it some more is not going to affect the condition, value or historical significance. Obviously, more than the usual care to preserve condition is in order, but the gun was meant to be shot, so doing so is an appropriate thing for even one with the "caretaker philosophy" to do. JMHO, YMMV.

As for the 4- vs 5-screw versions Candyman, the 4-screw was made for a shorter period of time, and I would expect it to be at least somewhat more rare. Regardless, that gun was made when both quality and pride of workmanship were givens at S&W, and you have a fine example there. Enjoy it (in spite of all of our jealousy here! ) Congratulations!

Froggie

 

[Candyman]

WOW I never would have thought it was that old; 1957. I was thinking 60's (the reason I thought I was in the wrong forum section).

Thank you everyone for all the great information. I will definitely keep this one. I wasn't sure if I should shoot it with today's ammo. Any no no's on ammo type?

I have a 17-4 (no screw on the trigger guard) that I shoot often and love it. Think this one will shoot better? I noticed that under the ejector rod that it has the same serial # that is on the bottom of the frame minus the "k". Does that mean anything special?

The ejector star is also different from my 17-4 which is pinned too. Why is that?



Thanks again,
David aka Candyman

 

[fat tom]

What they said.
f.t.

 

[Model19man]

Its about a $700 revolver around these parts. I am envious!

 

[bigmoose]

You did very well at $495. Congrats

 

[Snakeshift]

Once you shoot a K-22 there is no going back! I picked one up two weeks ago and have already put about 1000 rounds through her. Shoots like a dream!

 

[tcc]

Candyman, I have a pre 17 K289xxx and a pre 14 K301xxx, welcome to the '57 Club!
T