Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: K22 Masterpiece, Postwar, 3rd Model, Pre-Model 17
Serial Number: K25898
Year of Manufacture: 1948 / C&R (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 5th Edition)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Barrel Length: 6” Pinned, Full Tapered Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a patridge blade fixed to a serrated rise integral to the serrated barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered magna grips with silver S&W medallions, and diamonds centered around the escutcheons. The checkering remains sharp with defined peaks. There is light handling wear. There are minor nicks around the borders of the checkering. A few of the checkers have been blunted or nicked away. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color Trigger & Hammer
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong. There is light thinning on the leading edges and around the muzzle. There is light intermittent oxidation. The case color is vibrant with gentle muting at the edges. The screw heads are sharp, with light use. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with minimal play on each chamber when the trigger is depressed. 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: None.
Our Assessment: Smith & Wesson developed the K-22 to give target shooters a .22-caliber revolver with the dimensions, balance, and handling characteristics of its centerfire K-frame revolvers. The postwar K-22 Masterpiece incorporated a ribbed 6" barrel, micrometer-click adjustable sights, and refined target lockwork, establishing the configuration that would become the numbered Model 17 in 1957. Known to collectors as the postwar Third Model K-22, these revolvers earned an enduring reputation for accuracy, workmanship, and economical practice.
This 1948 K-22 Masterpiece is an early K-prefix example retaining approximately 95% of its original blue finish, with light edge thinning, intermittent oxidation, and honest handling wear. Its diamond Magna stocks remain in Very Good condition, the bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9/10, and the action functions correctly with minimal cylinder play. Early postwar manufacture, classic five-screw-era styling, and strong original condition make this a desirable representative of one of Smith & Wesson’s most respected target revolvers.
