SMITH & WESSON K-22 Masterpiece Pre-Model 17 1948

Overview

Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece Pre-Model 17, 1948, 6-Inch .22 LR, Five-Screw with Period Gold BoxOffered here is an exceptionally well-preserved early postwar Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece, serial number K50868, chambered in .22 Long Rifle and fitted with the classic 6-inch ribbed barrel. Commonly referred to by collectors as a "Pre-Model 17," this revolver predates Smith & Wesson's adoption of numerical model designations and represents one of the most desirable periods of postwar K-frame production. Serial number K50868 places this revolver firmly within 1948 production. It displays the period-correct four-line Smith & Wesson address on the right side of the frame, five-screw K-frame construction, pinned barrel and the classic features that distinguished the postwar K-22 Masterpiece as Smith & Wesson's premier rimfire target revolver.The K-22 Masterpiece was built as a serious precision revolver rather than simply a full-size .22. Its design incorporates Smith & Wesson's short-action lockwork, micrometer-click adjustable rear sight, ribbed 6-inch barrel, anti-backlash trigger system and finely fitted K-frame action. These revolvers established an enviable reputation for exceptional accuracy, superb triggers and outstanding balance and remain highly regarded by both serious Smith & Wesson collectors and traditional revolver shooters.This example retains an exceptionally strong period blue finish across the barrel, frame and cylinder. Factory markings remain crisp and well defined, the edges remain sharp and the revolver shows only limited evidence of careful use and handling. A light cylinder turn line is present, as expected on a revolver that has been operated, but there is no significant holster wear, corrosion or abuse evident. The walnut diamond Magna stocks are the proper early high-shoulder style with Smith & Wesson medallions and remain in excellent condition. The checkering remains sharply defined and the stocks display attractive natural grain and color with no visible cracks or significant damage. The bore is excellent, and the revolver has been mechanically inspected and functions properly. The cylinder locks correctly, the action operates properly in both single and double action, and the adjustable sight system remains intact and functional.Of particular collector interest, this revolver is accompanied by a period-correct Smith & Wesson gold K-22 Masterpiece box. The box carries the proper K-22 Masterpiece graphics, "Blue Finish" and "6-Inch Barrel" designation and the original bilingual English and Spanish operating instructions inside the lid. The box shows expected exterior edge and shelf wear from nearly eight decades of storage but remains intact and highly displayable. The packaging is particularly appropriate for this serial-number range. Documented K-22 Masterpieces immediately surrounding K50868 are known with this same style of gold packaging, making the included box an important and desirable part of this presentation rather than a generic later replacement box.The postwar K-22 Masterpiece occupies an important place in Smith & Wesson history. After the interruption of civilian production during World War II, Smith & Wesson returned to the premium rimfire target-revolver market with an improved version of its celebrated K-22. These early five-screw examples retain the craftsmanship, fitted actions and classic features that have made postwar K-22 Masterpieces increasingly sought after by knowledgeable collectors. This is substantially more than an ordinary shooter-grade Model 17. Its early 1948 production, five-screw construction, excellent original presentation, correct diamond Magna stocks, excellent bore, outstanding mechanical condition and period gold K-22 Masterpiece box combine to make K50868 a particularly attractive example of one of Smith & Wesson's finest classic target revolvers.For the dedicated Smith & Wesson collector, this is an opportunity to acquire a highly original and unusually complete early postwar K-22. For the shooter who appreciates traditional American revolver craftsmanship, few .22-caliber handguns offer the balance, accuracy, trigger quality and sheer mechanical refinement of an early K-22 Masterpiece. The gold box exhibits age-appropriate exterior wear as clearly shown in the photographs. Please review all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description. All used firearms are sold as is, with no warranties, express or implied.