Smith Model 18

[ericrlarson]

I recently put out a want to buy add in a local forum for a shooter grade model 18. One of the forum members, who lives about an hour from my house, responded saying that he had a 1957 vintage with some blueing issues in the right side plate. The gun is said to be in excellent mechanical condition. What would be a fair price? I’m not an expert on K frame 22’s but I sure love them.


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[k22fan]

Without seeing "some blueing issues in the right side plate" our answeres will vary depending on our imagination.

Generally, Model 18s sell for the same price as 6" Model 17s. There are less Model 18s but there is more demand for 6" Model 17s. In excellent condition, which does not describe the one offered to you, high retail in my area for both is $700 plus tax. In NRA good to very good condition you'd have hundreds of members frantically trying to climb through their computer screens to buy it ahead of you at $400. Take it from there but remember that as a practical matter side plates can not be replaced. Early in the manufacturing process they are swagged into the frame. They get an assembly number to keep them with their frame for good reason.

 

[RSinOR]

Around here I would expect to see an asking price of $400 to $650.00. Of course everything depends on condition.

 

[JP@AK]

. . . for a shooter grade model 18. . . . he had a 1957 vintage

Keep in mind that if it is really from 1957, it will not be marked as a MOD 18. If it is model marked, it is from 1958 or later.

This may not make a bit of difference to you, but I wanted you to be aware of the facts.

 

[GerSan69]

Well! I love my Model 18 more than my 17. I also value it higher.
Folks on here tend to be kinda modest when it comes to any flaws, and try to make sure you see every one before you buy from them. That's a great trait and very much appreciated. That said, take a look before you think a "flaw" is something you can't live with.
IMHO, an 18 or "pre" 18 should run in the $650-800 range. If our esteemed member is willing to sell for less than that up to the middle of that range, I think that would be fair, but that is a BIG "I think" because we haven't actually seen it yet. No one can give you a firm answer without a few photos. I wish you luck in your negotiations. The 4" K-frame 22s are an excellent all-around rimfire and everybody needs at least one!

 

[ericrlarson]

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[ericrlarson]

I haven’t seen this gun in person but the owner said that blueing issues are on the right side plate. He’s asking $700


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[The_Truth]

I'm no K22 expert but I would not give 700 for one with that type of blemish.

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

Pre 18 CM and nickel 18. $700 is not a bad price.....Remember they ain't making them anymore.

 

[austintexas]

To much for a collector, I would look around a little more, A reblue would cost probably $200 + and you would have to include shipping. for that amount you can buy a nice M-19. Check out the want to buy/sell portion of this forum.
SWCA 892.

 

[Guero]

First, I am no expert, seven is a little high, five is likely to be a little low. I would offer six, be willing to edge up a little and see if he really wants to sell. I have always had a soft spot for 18s. I have three of them. Each one of them was given the chance to do what they were designed to do, ride in holsters and glove boxes or the pocket of a brush jacket. They all did well in those roles and they bear the scars of their adventures. The question is, what are you going to do with it? If you want one for the safe, walk away from this one. If you want one you can walk around outside with, pay the man six, touch that baby up with a little Van's bluing and let it go on being a .22

 

[ericrlarson]

Guero,

I want one as a shooter. I’m not a collector. I love 22’s and just recently got a 617-6.

Thanks for the info and advice. I will go look at the gun and maybe we can work out a deal. If not, I’ll definitely keep looking.


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[ericrlarson]

To much for a collector, I would look around a little more, A reblue would cost probably $200 + and you would have to include shipping. for that amount you can buy a nice M-19. Check out the want to buy/sell portion of this forum.
SWCA 892.

I think I will keep looking. I have a 19, 29 and 617. The 617 was my most recent. After the 18, I start searching for 27/28.


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[k22fan]

I love Model 18s but I would not go over $550 including all of my expenses buying it. That assumes that it does not need any repairs. Unless the seller asks for a lower offer I'd move on. There's always another gun for sale around the corner.

 

[ericrlarson]

Thanks gents! I’ll keep y’all informed.


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[H Richard]

The gun pictured in post #6 I would price ar $500 - $550, provided it is mechanically O.K.

 

[ericrlarson]

Thanks H Richard. That helps a lot. I appreciate it.


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[GerSan69]

IMO, definitely worth a look. If it's strictly a bluing problem with no damage to the metal, I would (of course) work on the price, but I'd find a way to take it home. Heck, the grips might push the value up some, too, and probably why he wants 7.
Toss up, but I'd personally lean toward buy. After all, you want a shooter, that THAT is a shooter!

 

[CordWood]

The stocks are incorrect for the age of the gun. They are post 1968.
About $500 would be tops for me.
Butch

 

[butchkent]

I would have no trouble with the $500 price for a good early shooter.

 

[JohnRippert]

I paid under $600 shipped and transferred for this 1957 K22 Combat Masterpiece last year off Gunbroker. Condition 90%+ and mismatched stocks.