Model 53 question

[THE GUNSMITH]

Just picked up a 4" model 53. Would it be possible to fit 22 mag. cylinder from model 48? I have all the parts available, just curious about the bore size.

 

[Big Cholla]

No, the cylinder in the M 53 is longer than that of a M 48. And there is about 1 1/2 thousandth difference in standard bores with the M 53 being the smaller of the two. Bowen used to make a blank cylinder for the M 53 that could be bored and chambered to any cartridge wanted. I do not know if he still does.

You could also have a standard OEM M 53 22 Jet cylinder bored, relined and rechambered to 22 MRF, but as you can guess that will be a little pricey. For less money keep the M53, buy a M 617 and have a second cylinder rechambered to 22 MRF. You will be amazed at the obtainable accuracy shooting the 22 MRF thru the 22 LR barrel. I know I was......

 

[THE GUNSMITH]

Rats, I was afraid of that. Would prefer a 4" 17 full lug, maybe I can swap for one somewhere.....

 

[Big Cholla]

Gunsmith: As of today (4-30-) there is a M 53 22 LR cylinder on an popular auction site for the paltry starting bid of .......$550. Wow! Just a few years ago one could often buy the whole gun for that. ...

 

[THE GUNSMITH]

I do have a decent model 48, if only I could find a 4" full lug K22 barrel.

 

[GM4spd]

No, the cylinder in the M 53 is longer than that of a M 48.

I was just measuring these the other day the Jet cylinder is
.055" longer. I think the Jet cylinder may be same LOA as
a M 19 in 357. The M48 cylinder in millimeters was 41.17
the Jet was 42.57 mm. Pete