k-22

brian45auto · January 23, 2011, 08:34 AM

i've seen people posting about them, but never "got" what they were all going on about. yeah it's a smith and wesson and all, but it's still just a .22.
so the local fun shop has me peged, they know what i'm into and will hold stuff to show me. and so a pre model 17 shows up. i was'nt in to it, till they mentioned the "pre" part...ok a classic it is, yeah i'll find a home for it, i say.
i have since shot it, and i will now be going on about the k22s. i'm a big boy, a hundred or so rounds from a 500 is a good time to me. i like 44s hot and angry. but this little .22 is still a good time. now i do have other .22s, a semi pistol and a lever rifle, both shoot and function just fine, but do nothing for me....but this 61year old 22 revolver is a whole other story.

curt.45 · January 23, 2011, 08:48 AM

yeah they shoot as good as they look. welcome to the club

smee78 · January 23, 2011, 08:51 AM

And that is how it starts, I love my Model 18 and it generates alot of practice with a little wallet impact. I also get to practice my trigger control and breathing with a full size gun. Welcome to the pack.

CajunBass · January 23, 2011, 08:51 AM

I was one who used to think..."Yea, Yea...It's a Smith & Wesson. Big deal."

Then I got one.

That thing even makes ME look like I know how to shoot.

mikejonestkd · January 23, 2011, 09:23 AM

Congrats on the K-22!! They are my favorite 22 revolvers, and I have two nice ones - one near perfect one from 1940 and a nice 1948 model. Both shoot better than I can.

Winchester_73 · January 23, 2011, 09:41 AM

Quote:

one near perfect one from 1940 and a nice 1948 model. Both shoot better than I can.

Can you post a pic of your 1940 model? It should be a 2nd model.

There isn't a finer 22 revolver than a K-22. I own a diamondback and a single six and while they're good, they're not great IMO. Congrats op.

22-rimfire · January 23, 2011, 01:59 PM

They are very good 22 revolvers... almost as good as Colt

I have a 17-6 and 18-3.

Kentucky_Rifleman · January 23, 2011, 02:20 PM

Quote:

almost as good as Colt

Which is the Colt Cadillac .22 revolver?

Thanks for any info,
KR

B.N.Real · January 23, 2011, 02:43 PM

In my opinion,these are probably the perfect 22 revolvers.

I own a pristine,almost new 617 stainless 6 inch but it's as heavy as a tank for the 22 round it fires.

I think you did great.

Very nice Smith handgun.

22-rimfire · January 23, 2011, 03:01 PM

There have been many Colt 22 revolvers. I would have to say that the cadillac(s) would have to be the Officers Model series and the Diamondback. I lean toward the Officers Model Match simply because the Officers Model Special is so uncommon these days.

The Officers Model Special is the only one I don't at least have one speciman of the particular model. I could have bought one and could probably buy one in the next few months if I tried. I tend to be more interested in finding one at a gunshow than bidding at GunBroker. I do bid sometimes when I take the time to cruise the auction sites on guns inside TN where I could just drive there and pick it up in-person.

I have read that Colt did look into building a 22 version of the Python. In fact, there was a Python 22 on one of their catalog covers. (That is another story.) But what Colt found out is that a 22 Python was essentially the Officers Model Match that was already available.

Winchester_73 · January 23, 2011, 03:08 PM

Quote:

But what Colt found out is that a 22 Python was essentially the Officers Model Match that was already available.

Sort of...I would say this depends on the era. I know there wasn't a OMM in the 70s or 80s. At that point their deluxe revolver would have been the Diamondback with the standard model being the Trooper MKIII (at that time).

As far as their older DA revolvers go, its hard not to say that their original trooper in 22LR (scarce today) would be a Cadillac. At that time, the trooper, (from the 50s until 1970) had the same lockwork as the python. Python 22lrs are more rare then hens teeth and I would say that a documented original example would fetch mid to upper 4 figures.

22-rimfire · January 23, 2011, 03:21 PM

Colt never built a Python 22 as you know. Perhaps there is an experimental model. I have read that Colt built one from an Officers Model Match custom for somebody once as a special order.

The OMM was dropped in 1970 and the Diamondback (introduced in '66) took over as the premium Colt 22 revolver until being discontinued in 1986. The 22 didn't actually show up until late 1968. The Trooper Mark III didn't show up until 1979 in 22 rimfire even though the Trooper Mark III was introduced in 1968.

I'm not sure I would classify the original Trooper in 22 as a cadillac.

Winchester_73 · January 23, 2011, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Colt never built a Python 22 as you know. Perhaps there is an experimental model.

I read that they did, then didn't then did then didn't. I believe some prototypes probably exist. The one thing for sure that was never made are the rumored 41 mag Pythons. Never happened, never existed. They were made by some gunsmith supposedly and today some people think they're Colt originals.

22-rimfire · January 23, 2011, 03:46 PM

That is about what I have heard about the Python 22 and the Python 22 mag. IF anyone has a prototype it would be Gunkzesy. He is quite interested and able to buy these things.

Back in 1993, I had the opportunity to buy what appeared to be an Officers Model Match or Special prototype in 22. It had a lot of the characteristics of the Officers Model Special. I was uncertain at the time and didn't want to part with the $750 asking price. If it was real, it could have been pre-special or pre-match. I don't know. I didn't take chances like that back then.

Duke City Six · January 23, 2011, 08:44 PM

My 1955 pre-17 is still on layaway. I can't wait to pick it up. It will be my first 22, and I chose it for two reasons. I love old S&Ws, and I love the idea of 500 rounds of 22 for about the cost of one box of 38 special.

brian45auto · January 23, 2011, 08:47 PM

what did yours set you back?
mine was just over 5bills out the door.

Duke City Six · January 23, 2011, 09:21 PM

Mine was $550.00 plus tax. It's pretty clean and doesn't appear to have been shot very much.

motorhead0922 · January 23, 2011, 10:29 PM

Congrats!

I want one.

brian45auto · January 27, 2011, 08:39 PM

i just pulled the stocks, for s&js....they're numbered to the pistol...my first old smith to do so.

Standing Wolf · January 27, 2011, 10:07 PM

The only .22 caliber revolver I like as well as the K-22 is the Diamondback, which has become a collector's item.

Hammer It · February 1, 2011, 08:51 AM

Quote:

i just pulled the stocks, for s&js....they're numbered to the pistol...my first old smith to do so.
__________________

Hello Brian45auto
You need to get a factory letter on that K-22. I noticed that it has the Optional Red Post sight blade on it. I do know that S&W offered King Gun Sight Corp. sights on their revolver line prior to and after World War II and yours look's to be a Possible original. Does it say King on the side of the sight blade ? Regards, Hammerdown

brian45auto · February 1, 2011, 04:32 PM

it's just paint or nail polish....it has a few chips on the corners.....and no king.

Venom1956 · February 1, 2011, 04:53 PM

I have the Colt OMM. Its probably my favorite Revolver. The only .22 trigger that has gonna close are the K22s. But I suppose I am a bit bias I prefer the Colt trigger and grips, and I'm very proud of my colt.

The one thing the S&W have going for them is they 'don't' go out of time as much. It has yet to happen with my OMM but slowly it will. which makes me sad. I would love a K22 for a rival and a model 18 for fast DA shooting.

Hammer It · February 2, 2011, 03:53 AM

it's just paint or nail polish....it has a few chips on the corners.....and no king.

Hello brian45auto

Are you sure ? I tried to sharpen your image to see it a little better to no avail.

S&W did Produce a Red Post sight blade patterened just like the King gun sight Red Post later after King closed their doors but I am not sure of when that time span was. Below is a model 17-2 of mine that does have the Optional Red Post front sight blade and it sure looks exactly like yours...It also has some very small chips out of one side of it, & Mine is Not stamped King neither, but the gun is a Lot later than your's being a 1964 Model and the sight has a red Insert it is not nail Polish or paint...Just Curious here...

Hammer It

540mope · February 2, 2011, 04:04 PM

those are some nice looking Smiths posted. as of yesterday, i purchased a 6" K22 in excellent condition. but i can't fondle it or shoot it until Friday....that waiting period is BS.

the serial # dates it to early '53.

January 23, 2011, 08:51 AM	#3
smee78 Senior Member Join Date: July 14, 2008 Location: South Carolina Posts: 2,918	And that is how it starts, I love my Model 18 and it generates alot of practice with a little wallet impact. I also get to practice my trigger control and breathing with a full size gun. Welcome to the pack. __________________ We know exactly where one cow with Mad-cow-disease is located, among the millions and millions of cows in America, but we haven't got a clue where thousands of illegal immigrants and terrorists are

January 23, 2011, 08:51 AM	#4
CajunBass Senior Member Join Date: May 6, 2005 Location: North Chesterfield, Virginia Posts: 4,767	I was one who used to think..."Yea, Yea...It's a Smith & Wesson. Big deal." Then I got one. That thing even makes ME look like I know how to shoot. __________________ For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)

January 23, 2011, 09:23 AM	#5
mikejonestkd Senior Member Join Date: January 3, 2006 Location: Brockport, NY Posts: 3,717	Congrats on the K-22!! They are my favorite 22 revolvers, and I have two nice ones - one near perfect one from 1940 and a nice 1948 model. Both shoot better than I can. __________________ You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.

January 23, 2011, 03:21 PM	#12
22-rimfire Senior Member Join Date: February 19, 2005 Location: Tennessee Posts: 5,323	Colt never built a Python 22 as you know. Perhaps there is an experimental model. I have read that Colt built one from an Officers Model Match custom for somebody once as a special order. The OMM was dropped in 1970 and the Diamondback (introduced in '66) took over as the premium Colt 22 revolver until being discontinued in 1986. The 22 didn't actually show up until late 1968. The Trooper Mark III didn't show up until 1979 in 22 rimfire even though the Trooper Mark III was introduced in 1968. I'm not sure I would classify the original Trooper in 22 as a cadillac. Last edited by 22-rimfire; January 23, 2011 at 03:33 PM.

January 23, 2011, 08:47 PM	#16
brian45auto Senior Member Join Date: April 19, 2009 Location: eastern pa Posts: 499	what did yours set you back? mine was just over 5bills out the door. __________________ it's only metal, we can out think it.....

January 23, 2011, 08:48 AM	#2
curt.45 Senior Member Join Date: December 28, 2008 Location: Fort Wayne Ind. Posts: 866	yeah they shoot as good as they look. welcome to the club

January 23, 2011, 01:59 PM	#7
22-rimfire Senior Member Join Date: February 19, 2005 Location: Tennessee Posts: 5,323	They are very good 22 revolvers... almost as good as Colt I have a 17-6 and 18-3.

January 23, 2011, 02:43 PM	#9
B.N.Real Senior Member Join Date: February 22, 2008 Posts: 4,092	In my opinion,these are probably the perfect 22 revolvers. I own a pristine,almost new 617 stainless 6 inch but it's as heavy as a tank for the 22 round it fires. I think you did great. Very nice Smith handgun.

January 23, 2011, 03:01 PM	#10
22-rimfire Senior Member Join Date: February 19, 2005 Location: Tennessee Posts: 5,323	There have been many Colt 22 revolvers. I would have to say that the cadillac(s) would have to be the Officers Model series and the Diamondback. I lean toward the Officers Model Match simply because the Officers Model Special is so uncommon these days. The Officers Model Special is the only one I don't at least have one speciman of the particular model. I could have bought one and could probably buy one in the next few months if I tried. I tend to be more interested in finding one at a gunshow than bidding at GunBroker. I do bid sometimes when I take the time to cruise the auction sites on guns inside TN where I could just drive there and pick it up in-person. I have read that Colt did look into building a 22 version of the Python. In fact, there was a Python 22 on one of their catalog covers. (That is another story.) But what Colt found out is that a 22 Python was essentially the Officers Model Match that was already available.

January 23, 2011, 03:46 PM	#14
22-rimfire Senior Member Join Date: February 19, 2005 Location: Tennessee Posts: 5,323	That is about what I have heard about the Python 22 and the Python 22 mag. IF anyone has a prototype it would be Gunkzesy. He is quite interested and able to buy these things. Back in 1993, I had the opportunity to buy what appeared to be an Officers Model Match or Special prototype in 22. It had a lot of the characteristics of the Officers Model Special. I was uncertain at the time and didn't want to part with the $750 asking price. If it was real, it could have been pre-special or pre-match. I don't know. I didn't take chances like that back then.

January 23, 2011, 08:44 PM	#15
Duke City Six Senior Member Join Date: January 8, 2010 Posts: 304	My 1955 pre-17 is still on layaway. I can't wait to pick it up. It will be my first 22, and I chose it for two reasons. I love old S&Ws, and I love the idea of 500 rounds of 22 for about the cost of one box of 38 special.

January 23, 2011, 09:21 PM	#17
Duke City Six Senior Member Join Date: January 8, 2010 Posts: 304	Mine was $550.00 plus tax. It's pretty clean and doesn't appear to have been shot very much.

January 23, 2011, 10:29 PM	#18
motorhead0922 Senior Member Join Date: October 30, 2010 Location: Missouri Posts: 635	K-22 Congrats! I want one.

January 27, 2011, 08:39 PM	#19
brian45auto Senior Member Join Date: April 19, 2009 Location: eastern pa Posts: 499	i just pulled the stocks, for s&js....they're numbered to the pistol...my first old smith to do so. __________________ it's only metal, we can out think it.....

January 27, 2011, 10:07 PM	#20
Standing Wolf Member in memoriam Join Date: April 26, 2002 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,649	The only .22 caliber revolver I like as well as the K-22 is the Diamondback, which has become a collector's item. __________________ No tyrant should ever be allowed to die of natural causes.

February 1, 2011, 04:32 PM	#22
brian45auto Senior Member Join Date: April 19, 2009 Location: eastern pa Posts: 499	it's just paint or nail polish....it has a few chips on the corners.....and no king. __________________ it's only metal, we can out think it.....

February 1, 2011, 04:53 PM	#23
Venom1956 Senior Member Join Date: October 4, 2008 Location: WI Posts: 3,656	I have the Colt OMM. Its probably my favorite Revolver. The only .22 trigger that has gonna close are the K22s. But I suppose I am a bit bias I prefer the Colt trigger and grips, and I'm very proud of my colt. The one thing the S&W have going for them is they 'don't' go out of time as much. It has yet to happen with my OMM but slowly it will. which makes me sad. I would love a K22 for a rival and a model 18 for fast DA shooting. __________________ E-Shock rounds are engineered to expend maximum energy into soft targets, turning the density mass into an expanding rotational cone of NyTrilium matrix particles, causing neurological collapse to the central nervous system.- Yeah I can do that. I guarantee you will know it if a bicyclist hits your house going 1000 mph. -Smaug

February 2, 2011, 03:53 AM	#24
Hammer It Senior Member Join Date: December 8, 2004 Location: The Great Smoky Mountain Range Posts: 1,367	it's just paint or nail polish....it has a few chips on the corners.....and no king. Hello brian45auto Are you sure ? I tried to sharpen your image to see it a little better to no avail. S&W did Produce a Red Post sight blade patterened just like the King gun sight Red Post later after King closed their doors but I am not sure of when that time span was. Below is a model 17-2 of mine that does have the Optional Red Post front sight blade and it sure looks exactly like yours...It also has some very small chips out of one side of it, & Mine is Not stamped King neither, but the gun is a Lot later than your's being a 1964 Model and the sight has a red Insert it is not nail Polish or paint...Just Curious here... Hammer It __________________ "Yeah, though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, ... I shall Fear no Evil, as I carry with me My Loaded S&W"..

February 2, 2011, 04:04 PM	#25
540mope Senior Member Join Date: November 22, 2008 Location: yonder Posts: 359	those are some nice looking Smiths posted. as of yesterday, i purchased a 6" K22 in excellent condition. but i can't fondle it or shoot it until Friday....that waiting period is BS. the serial # dates it to early '53.