S&W Model 18-3 .22LR 4 inch barrel

[drummer]

Hello to all. Here's one that was my Father's. Unfortunately he passed away many years ago. He divided his guns between myself and my 3 brother's. That's how I ended up with this particular one.
It's a great shooter, and in outstanding condition. I remember shooting this gun as well as the others when I was real young. I was wondering if there is a way to find out when this revolver was made within a year or two. Any help would be appreciated.
I don't know if it's OK to include the entire serial number, so, it starts out with: 1K8 on the bottom strap. There is also 5 numbers and a clover stamp below these numbers. Also the serial number above MOD 18-3
These stamps are inside once you swing out the cylinder.
Thanks

 

[drummer]

 

[Inspector-Callahan]

Nice gun. Certainly a great one to keep in the family, as even the young ones can enjoy it.

It is approximately a 1971 production gun.

IC

 

[drummer]

Thanks for the reply. I'll be 51, so 1971 or so makes sense.
What's the significance of the clover ?
Do you have an approximate value ?
Thanks

 

[Inspector-Callahan]

St Patrick's Day Special!

Sounds like an ultra-rare St. Patrick's day limited edition model! Ha! Can you photograph it? I don't recall seeing anything like that.

With guns like this, condition is everything and this gun shows noticeable finish wear. I am guessing around $400, assuming it's perfect and unaltered functionally. Check one of the internet auction sites for 18-3 and you can see the range of prices you're looking at.

IC

 

[drummer]

Thanks IC,
Sorry for the poor photo.

 

[murphydog]

Likely an inspector's stamp; a heart stamping photo on the frame has been posted here. Enjoy!

 

[pumpgun]

more like $600-700. i'd buy all the $400 mod 18's i could find.

 

[fyimo]

The gun in very good to near excellent condition is worth closer to $700 and that would be a very good deal as I to would be stock piling them at $400.

 

[drummer]

Thanks to all. I appreciate it.

 

[drummer]

What brand ammo/velocities are you folks shooting with your model 18

 

[P&R Fan]

It will handle pretty much any .22 LR ammo.
I have a M18-3. A few years ago I had it out to the range. Some young guys were shooting at a 2 liter pop bottle with a scoped .22 rifle off the bench at 100 yards. I asked them to spot for me through their scope, held up a bit of front sight, and touched off a round. They said it was a bit high. I held right on it and nailed it.....several times.

Those suckers will shoot.
Jim

 

[drummer]

Thanks Jim. By the way, that some nice shooting you did.
Yes the 18 is a great little shooter. I ran some Blazer ammo the other day. I think it's 1235 fps. Got some nice consistent groups. Finding any ammo has been real tough. I have to shoot what I can find.

 

[pumpgun]

all my k22's like federal champion and rem golden bullets. my latest 18 no dash is my most accurate 22 handgun i own.

 

[Caster]

I had one just like it. They are great guns.

 

[THE PILGRIM]

Nice gun! If I saw one for sale in Albuquerque, would go at least $5-600 for one as you describe. Very desirable gun, IMO.