Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 17-3, K-22 Masterpiece

Serial Number: 12K7904

Year of Manufacture: 1977

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle, Recessed Chambers

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Hand Ejector Revolver

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, Pinned

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade on a raised serrated ramp fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square notch S&W micrometer sight attached to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut Target stocks with S&W medallions and extractor "football" cut. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is infrequent minor erosion and some stubborn fouling in the bore, including some leading in the forcing cone. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 8 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is some minor finish wear on the muzzle. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a wood presentation case, cleaning rod, brush, mop, and grooved alloy-handle screwdriver.

Our Assessment: The Model 17 was first produced as the K-22 Masterpiece in the Pre-War days before Smith & Wesson implemented the number system to their guns. It is a fun rimfire revolver built on a full-size K-Frame. The design was massively popular as its .22 chambering was perfect for use as an outdoorsman's kit gun, and with its K-Frame also dominated target shooting and training for centerfire K-Frame revolvers. The revolver would go on to be named the Model 17 in 1957. This is a nice Model 17-3 made in 1977. This example is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen limited and responsible use. This revolver sells itself as a target revolver, with an 8 3/8" barrel, target stocks, target hammer and target trigger. With its pinned barrel and classic craftsmanship, they quite literally do not make them like this anymore, so it is also a nice find for the collectors. This is a wonderful opportunity at an old-school Smith & Wesson with all of the quality craftsmanship that we don't see much of these days. Please see our photos and good luck!