Time to reintroduce the Model 63

JackInCt

Member
Joined
Dec 20, 2021
Messages
5
Reaction score
8
On March 26, Younger Auctions sold a used, but "like new" Model 63, (the 22/32 Kit Gun in stainless) for $1,750.00!

Other 63's at auction have been selling for similar crazy prices. Clearly, there's a market for these neat little guns.

It would seem wise for S&W to re-introduce the 63, (without lock)
 
Register to hide this ad
I paid $200.00 for one about 15 years ago. At the time I had a pre model 18 (still do) and liked the way the 18 shot vs. the 63. I thought I did good selling the 63 for $300.00. Hindsight is 20/20.
 
If S&W makes one, it’ll probably have a 3.8” barrel. It’s like they just won’t build what sells. 66-8 with 2.75”? Why not 3”???
 
The 63 was shown so much love here it became a priority to purchase. Recently found a 1988 model 63 and it has definately met expectations. Waiting on the a new 3" version to come in. BE Mike mentioned how it would be great for those with small hands, of which I am and it certainly fits the bill. Have purchased some different grips to try out, will be fun experimenting.
 
Yes, Holy Moo Cow! I bought my 63 new in 1979, not long after they came out. I recall that it seemed quite pricey to me way back then ($279). I don't shoot it much but I'm happy I saved the box, docs and tools. Probably will pass to my son one day.
 
The Model 63 and 651 were probably the best .22s S&W ever made. They were the size a .22 rimfire needed to be and could be easily carried anywhere...

Have had about a half dozen over the years but after slowing down my Basic Pistol instruction I sold off all but one no- that had been nicely customized with a black Patridge front sight with white dot and a two dot rear blade. Added a 651 .22 Magnum cylinder to it and it is all I really need .22 Double Action revolver wise...

Bob
 

Attachments

  • Survival22s036.jpg
    Survival22s036.jpg
    89.3 KB · Views: 68
Last edited:
I have a couple of M34's but just got a new 63 no dash in a trade deal. The wrong box was sent with it so I'm waiting on the correct one and will put it in the classifieds. There a nice sized revolver and about perfect to take along for a walk in the woods.
 
I’ve got a 4” 63 that my wife claimed and I bought the newest iteration 63 8 shot with a 5” barrel and round butt.
Are the 5” less desireable?
 
Back when I was working p/t at an LGS, a 4" M63 came in as part of an estate. I picked it up for ~$300-ish. Perfect shape, but no box, etc.

Now - these are great little guns, and I like mine - but do NOT quite understand why they now bring such incredibly high prices.

BTW - mine had the typical-for-this-model very tight chambers. After 3-4 cylinders-full of ammo fired, you could barely force any more rounds into the chambers without cleaning it.
Used the Brownell's .22 finish reamer on it (carefully) and that problem disappeared. Much more user-friendly now.
Guess if I ever sell it - could call that a 'custom upgrade'! ;)
 
I used to have an early model 34 and 63 in 4". Both were sold off when I liquidated my collection as I found them to valuable to to use "as intended". ( I got good money for both but not the $1700 they are commanding today!) Shortly after I purchased a new 3", model 63. I like it well enough after an action job and grip change. (I love the FO front sight!). Best of all, I don't worry about showing this one some honest "kit gun" use. This 3" flavor carries in the pocket or IWB holster near as good as any snubbie but does have an advantage when it comes to actually hitting what I point it at. That said, it's a nice little gun for close up plinking/critter control but if I want "minute of rat head" accuracy beyond 25' or so, I opt for a K frame .22. The K frames are just much easier to shoot accurately IMHO.
 
Last edited:

Latest posts

Back
Top