Model 18 Conumdrum......

[45NUTT]

I have a K-22 Masterpeice, a model 48 and I am wondering if I want (NOT need) a model 18. Mind, I do have the aforementioned K-22, a K-38 Masterpiece (14-3) and a Combat Masterpiece (15-3) so this would complete a couple of combo's. The rimfire version and the Masterpiece version sans the K-32, which will not happen for me because they cost too much for my budget. I have plenty of 32 Long S&Ws to shoot.

It would get routine use in the field and range, so it need not be pristine. What say you?

 

[CKPOMEH]

I would buy one. I have half a dozen M17s/K22s and two M18s, as well as 4 and 6 inch 617s. I like shooting DA from the 4 inchers - it seems like I am more accurate with them. In SA the 6 inchers will do better. 4" K frames balance so well...If you shoot DA, I think you will like the M18.

Also, you may want to consider a 4 inch 617 - heavier and stays on target very easily. Plus I need something to run the bulk 22lr ammo. All the oldies get CCI SV only...Just something to consider in addition to the M18 down the road.

 

[Fishinfool]

Get one. A different feel to the 4 inch guns. Mine gets some woods and range use.

Larry

 

[45NUTT]

^^Are those Ropers on your 18? They look great!

 

[BarryinIN]

I wanted a 17 for a long time, and when I got it I was not disappointed. But after getting a (pre)18, the 17 has practically been benched.

But then, I enjoy shooting my 15 more than my pre-14.

Everything with these adds up to being handy and nice shooting guns.

 

[Smithboomer]

I have to agree with BarryinIN.

While my Model 17 is the finest .22 revolver that I could ever want, I enjoy shooting my Model 18 more. It's just a handier gun IMO.

 

[peterdeb]

Budget, smudget...What are you waiting for? You have to ask us what you want?

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

Pre 18 CM and nickel 18.........Have pre 17's-17's-617's and bunch of .22 autos..........I LOVE "em"ll all..............

 

[sophie]

I think you need more than one Model 18. I vote yes on your purchase of a Model 18. Go for it.

Here’s a group picture of my Model 18’s and several Model 17’s and a pre-Model 17. I also have several 8 3/8” barrel Model 17’s. I have always enjoyed shooting 22’s and the older I get, the more trouble I have with my hands makes me enjoy them more.

 

[minconrevo]

Please excuse minor thread wobble. Grips sure look like Altamount Ropers. Finally got a set a couple months back and am rather pleased. Three choices of solid wood available. Grip is a bit thinner than S&W factory target stocks; fits my hands well. Be careful to keep track of the two mini locator pins included.

 

[rfry]

Go for it! This summer I picked up a 1946 K-22 and love it. Then got lucky enough to find a 1971 Model 18. Shot it for the first time today and it's a blast! Pun intended. It's also the spitting image of my model 19-3.

 

[AManWearingAHat]

I shoot my model 18 constantly, it comes on almost every range trip.

 

[Smith391]

^^Are those Ropers on your 18? They look great!

The grip pictured above is indeed the replica Roper Target grip, from ALTAMONT®... https://www.altamontco.com/pistol-grips/smith-and-wesson/k-square

It appears to be the 'Santos Rosewood Checkered' grip, which is in-stock & available now @ $86.00.

 

[GSP Fan]

I have several Pre17's, K22, M48, M617's in both 4 and 6 inch. I like them all but my M18 with a set of smooth targets is very hard to beat..
IIRC there was a M18 in the classifieds here, a GREAT place to look for your M18.

 

[remusn]

Everyone that likes to shoot .22's NEEDS a model 18.

 

[CajunBass]

I've owned several Model 18's over the years, but foolishly let them get away. This one is going to stay.



An 18-2 from 1965, about the time I started HS. The diamond stocks came on it, according to the tag on the end of the box (numbers to the gun).

I don't shoot it as much as I should, but I got bit by the 22 semi bug a couple of months or so ago. The revolver will make a comeback soon, I'm sure.

Should YOU get a Model 18? Of course you should. You can never have too many 22's.

 

[Phish]

Sounds like you won’t be happy til you do get one. It’s only thing that can buy you happiness!

 

[rfry]

Really the biggest thing to be learned here is, do not ask enablers, should I........

 

[Oldengineer]

The 22 Combat Masterpiece is one of my favorites. I have two from the early 1950’s. They are a pleasure to shoot and carry well in the forest. I also have a like new 18-4 that is a safe queen that I’m going to sell soon. You can’t go wrong with a nice model 18. Not much to think about……buy one, or two.

Tom H.

 

[paplinker]

I have been considering a Model 18 myself.
Having over 15 six inch k frame 22s you would think naturally a four inch version would be a no brainer.
I am kind of hung up liking the patridge front sight for 22s and also only liking the bright 60s finish. I guess it's time to try one ramped until my unicorn shows up

 

[GSP Fan]

A M18 doesn’t disappoint

 

[Fishinfool]

^^Are those Ropers on your 18? They look great!

Thank you. Those are indeed Altamont Roper target grips. Oftentimes, they can be found on altamonts GB and PayPal factory stores at auction for about half retail price.

Larry

 

[Grayfox]

Everybody needs a Model 18. I have two! They're the most often shot of all my revolvers.

 

[Sebago Son]

What's not to like?

 

[SgtDog0311]

I have a K-22 Masterpeice, a model 48 and I am wondering if I want (NOT need) a model 18. Mind, I do have the aforementioned K-22, a K-38 Masterpiece (14-3) and a Combat Masterpiece (15-3) so this would complete a couple of combo's. The rimfire version and the Masterpiece version sans the K-32, which will not happen for me because they cost too much for my budget. I have plenty of 32 Long S&Ws to shoot.

It would get routine use in the field and range, so it need not be pristine. What say you?

You are in a good position. You can take your time and wait for a nice one at a fair price. I’m with you on the .32. I’d like one but not to that tune.

 

[wweste]

I am a member of a group that teaches NRA Basic Pistol classes. For years we used S & W K frame 38/357 revolvers. When 38 ammo became unobtanium we tried striker fired 9mm pistols, but were unhappy with them. We transitioned to S & W model 18 revolvers for the first two nights of shooting with excellent results. All of our shooters are easily qualifying with the revolvers.

Our second two nights of shooting we are again using striker fired 9mm pistols. Tonight was our first night of shooting the 9mm pistols. I have become physically challenged and cannot get down the stairs to the range so I don't know how it went.

I will advise.

These are my five M18 revolvers.

 

[wweste]

They range from a pre Model 18 to model 18-4s They were all in remarkable condition. I reamed cylinders and they are working well.

 

[GerSan69]

Hmmm...
Do you "want" an 18 when you have the others isn't the question, IMHO.
No, the question is can you handle looking in your safe and not have one in there?
I confess, my answer was no, although I actually picked up a Model 18 before a 17.
Just remember the new saying for 2026: "Life is short. Buy the gun."

 

[RKmesa]

I love the .22 Combat Masterpiece! One of the finest post war revolvers in my opinion. Every S&W collection should have at least one. And Rich, here are a couple with the Patridge front sight...

 

[max503]

Everybody needs a Model 18. I have two! They're the most often shot of all my revolvers.

Me too! But I only have one.