S&W model 48

[Malvin]

I am glad to be a new member of the Smith & Wesson Forum. I just purchased a nice Model 48 with four inch barrel serial number 73161 with recessed chambers and pinned barrel. Can someone tell me the date of manufacture? Also did S&W offer an extra cyl. in 22 LR for this model? Mine has Pachmayr grips and I would like to find original walnut grips. Thanks for the opportunity to be a part of this forum. Malvin

 

[ttrotter]

Malvin, 48's were produced from 1959-1986, but the S/N you listed does not fall into that date range. Please double check the #. It should begin with a "K" followed by 6 digits if prior to 1970; or 1 or 2 digits preceding the "K" followed by digits after the "K" if produced post 1970.
Yes, the 22LR cylinder was offered as an option on 48's.
Welcome to the forum! It's a great place.
Rregards,
Tom

 

[Malvin]

OK The number on the frame is 78K0100 and Mod 48 4. The number on the yoke is 73161 and B19.

 

[ttrotter]

Your S/N then is 78K0100 and it is a Model 48-4 (meaning the 4th engineering change for the Model 48's). Your 48-4 was manufactured in 1980. The other #'s are manufacturing #'s and have no meaning outside of the manufacturing process.

 

[murphydog]

Yes, a .22 LR cylinder was offered with the model 48; you may find them for sale online occasionally. The original stocks were likely walnut Magna or service-style stocks that follow the contour of the grip frame. Hope this is helpful.

 

[Malvin]

Thanks for the info. Malvin

 

[farmer56]

I just joined the forum too. First pistol ever bought was a Model 48 with 6 inch barrel.Great shooter but expensive ammo now. I will look for a cylinder myself. Thanks

 

[Blov]

The Model 48 is one that I would like to get. Great pistol.

 

[Malvin]

Thanks again for the info. I am looking for a box for this model. Malvin