Mid-late 50s S&W 6" barrel has no Model #, where is it?

[saltydog452]

Title pretty much explains question. Excelent condition .22rf. Trip panels seem to match, diamonds sharp, one grip panel has serial matches the# on butt of frame. Thing is, I can't find the Model #. Numbers are on the inner surface of crane meets the frame (terminology suks). Anyone out there that she'd some light on the location of the Model Number?

Thanks
salty.

 

[tlawler]

S&W didn't start assigning model numbers until 1957. What you have sounds like a Pre-17 K22. With at least a partial s/n, we can help nail down the mfr. date.

 

[Chuck24]

The model numbers weren't used until around 1957, if made before that it just had a name. Some more knowledgeable folks will be along to tell you what the name is.

 

[shawn mccarver]

Model numbers were not assigned until about 1957, so it is likely your revolver, like all S&W's before assignment of model numbers, would have been known by its name. If it is a K-frame, it is likely a K22, also known as a Pre-17. If a J-frame, it is likely a .22/32 Kit Gun (so called because the 22 caliber revolver was made on the 32 frame. That revolver later became the Model 34.

 

[Jim Watson]

It hasn't got one. Before 1957, maybe into 1958, Smith & Wessons had names, not numbers.

Depending on frame size, you have either a K22 Masterpiece or a .22/32 Target.

 

[saltydog452]

Thanks to all. Serial number is K 243198.

Mr. Watson, its been a long time since THR. Glad to see you again. Didn't know about Model# designation harn't started when this one was assembled. Neither did I know a .22rf could be a 'hand ejector'.
I made my inquiry in the wrong sub forum through ignorance.

 

[tlawler]

Thanks to all. Serial number is K 243198.

Mr. Watson, its been a long time since THR. Glad to see you again. Didn't know about Model# designation harn't started when this one was assembled. Neither did I know a .22rf could be a 'hand ejector'.
I made my inquiry in the wrong sub forum through ignorance.

The K prefix of the serial would make it a Pre Model 17 K22 Masterpiece.

Manufacture date would most likely be sometime in 1955.

 

[JP@AK]

Neither did I know a .22rf could be a 'hand ejector'.

The term "hand ejector" was born in 1896, when S&W introduced its first solid frame revolver with a cylinder that swings out to the side. Case ejection was accomplished by pushing on the extractor rod by hand; hence "hand ejector." This distinguished it from the top break revolvers in which the cases were ejected automatically when the firearm was broken open. So all the units with a swing out cylinder were (and are) "hand ejectors."

 

[THE PILGRIM]

Hey Salty - We Need a Picture!
As posted, there are a couple of possibilities.
But either way, you have a super neat and desirable Gun!

 

[Jim Watson]

The K prefix of the serial would make it a Pre Model 17 K22 Masterpiece.

Please note that "Pre-Model ###" is collectors' shorthand for revolvers made between the introduction of the short action after the war and addition of model number marking. Not a company designation. Same as Julius Caesar, he didn't say his birthday was July 12, 100 BC.