Model 53

[walkcubs]

I have a model 53 and I noticed that the barrel is stamped 22 magnum. You cannot load magnum 22 cartridges even with the inserts. Why didn't they just stamp 22 caliber??

 

[shouldazagged]

I'm no expert, but I wonder if the gun originally had a .22 Magnum cylinder and one in .22LR and you only got the Long Rifle. Or if someone just converted it.

My first thought, but i've been wrong so many times...

 

[arjay]

Because it's a 22 magnum bore?

 

[Engine49guy]

The 53 is unique in that it utilizes a longer cylinder like the Model 19 and thus has a shorter forcing cone, also is the only K-22 to have the Model 19 style half shrouded ejector rod that I know of.

Without digging the book out seem to recall their being a very slight difference in bore diameters between .22lr and .22 WMR with the later being slightly larger so you might want to explore that,
The Model 53 Jet IIRC is a .357 cartridge necked down to .22 so IMO is really kind of a 22 Super Magnum.

 

[bamabiker]

It is the 22 Centerfire Magnum. Don't know why they didn't include centerfire.

 

[Walter Rego]

The Model 53's were marked .22 Magnum because that is what the factory designation was for the ".22 Jet" cartridge. The barrels of their guns that were chambered for the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, like the Model 48 and others were marked .22 MRF CTG.

 

[walkcubs]

Thanx for the feedback. I realize the .22 jet was an experiment that never really took off. I think the model 53 is an interesting design with the 2 firing pins. A .22 with the shrouded barrel is also cool. I managed to find a box of .22 jet cartridges. I will probably try them out as soon as the weather permits.

 

[BUFF]

I have had 3 Model 53's and a T/C Contender barrel in .22 Centerfire Magnum/Remington Jet. One 4 incher, one 8-3/8 incher that had sat on something wet and had half the gun rusted and pitted, and a pristine 6 incher.

Some advise for Jet shooters, especially if you shoot these in an indoor range: Wear EARPLUGS AND MUFFS!!!!! The .22 Jet is perhaps the loudest handgun I have shot and the report is a very loud, very high-pitched screeching boom that is hard to describe and exciting to experience.

 

[Muley Gil]

Make dang sure the chambers are degreezed and dry or you risk case set-back.

 

[Kenny A]

Model 53 22 Magnum

The 53 bore is .222 like 22 L.R. The Model 48 Bore is .224. The Model 53 is 22 Center Fire Magnum, The Model 48 is 22 Rimfire Magnum. The Model 53 was never chambered for 22 Rimfire Magnum with inserts or aux cylinder. If you reload for a 53, you should never load bullets over .223 dia.

 

[samnev]

Make dang sure the chambers are degreezed and dry or you risk case set-back.

Excellent advise. If you don't follow it you will get set back which will lock up your cylinder. I clean my reloads and cylinders with alcohol before I fire my 53. Then after i'm finished shooting lightly lube the cylinders. Then repeat cleaning before I shoot it again. Never had any set back.

 

[Cjpetracca]

I have a M53 which has a factory fitted 22 Rimfire Magnum aux cylinder. I have not fired any 22 Magnums through it yet, but I'm curious to do so.

 

[italiansport]

I have had 3 Model 53's and a T/C Contender barrel in .22 Centerfire Magnum/Remington Jet. One 4 incher, one 8-3/8 incher that had sat on something wet and had half the gun rusted and pitted, and a pristine 6 incher.

Some advise for Jet shooters, especially if you shoot these in an indoor range: Wear EARPLUGS AND MUFFS!!!!! The .22 Jet is perhaps the loudest handgun I have shot and the report is a very loud, very high-pitched screeching boom that is hard to describe and exciting to experience.

Every time I shoot mine indoors it shuts down the whole range. It's the loudest cartridge I think I've ever heard.
Jim