Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece .22 LR, Third Model Pre-Model 17, 6 in Barrel, 5-Screw K-Frame, 1950
This 1950 Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece is a Third Model, pre-model-number example that later became the Model 17. Built on the K-frame with the desirable 5-screw, square-butt configuration, it features a pinned 6 in ribbed barrel, recessed chambers, and fully adjustable target sights. Classic blued steel, case-hardened hammer and trigger, and period-correct Magna stocks complete this well-regarded Masterpiece series revolver.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in solid shape. There are some scratches and blemishes present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece (Third Model) .22 LR revolver with 6 in barrel
- Checkered walnut S&W Magna stocks with diamond and silver S&W medallions
As a pre-Model 17 K-22 Masterpiece, this Third Model post-war revolver represents the target-focused lineage that made S&W’s Masterpiece series a benchmark. The K-prefix serial indicates 1950 production, and the yoke cut is correctly without a model stamp, consistent with pre-model-number examples. It carries the large S&W trademark on the right sideplate with standard period rollmarks.
The 6 in carbon steel barrel is pinned and ribbed, with a serrated top rib and serrated topstrap to reduce glare. It wears a Patridge front sight paired with a micrometer-click adjustable rear sight, giving precise, repeatable sight settings suited to rimfire target work.
Its fluted 6-shot cylinder features recessed, countersunk chambers. The ejector rod has a knurled tip and a short under-barrel lug secured by a screw, reflecting the period’s attention to detail. The double-action/single-action mechanism delivers the familiar K-frame handling and control.
Construction is all carbon steel with a blued finish, complemented by a color case-hardened hammer and trigger. Checkered walnut S&W Magna stocks with diamond and silver medallions provide a secure, classic grip profile. This K-22 is part of S&W’s renowned Masterpiece target trio alongside the K-32 and K-38.