Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 17-4, K-22 Masterpiece
Serial Number: 75K8901
Year of Manufacture: 1980
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver
Barrel Length: 8 3/8"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade on a raised serrated ramp fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square-notch leaf in a micrometer-click base that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood Target stocks with “S&W” medallions and a “football” shaped relief cut on the upper left grip. The right panel has cracks at the bottom corner of the backstrap and up at the corner where the backstrap widens into the frame. There are some scattered little nicks and dings in the wood. There are some areas of finish wear, mostly along the edges. There are light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. The grips rate in Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
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, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are some scattered scuffs that have thinned the finish. There is finish loss on some of the edges. There are a few little nicks and small scratches through the finish. There are some hairline scratches from abrasive cleaning. The screw heads are lightly used. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup has some light side-to-side movement. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Model 17 was first produced as the K-22 Masterpiece in the Pre-War days before Smith & Wesson implemented the numbering system for their guns. The design was massively popular, as its .22 chambering was perfect for use as an outdoorsman’s kit gun, and with its K-Frame, it also dominated target shooting and training for centerfire K-Frame revolvers. The K-22 Masterpiece would go on to be named the Model 17 in 1957.
This Smith & Wesson Model 17-4 revolver was made in 1980 and is in Fine condition, retaining about 90% of its original finish, a great bore in its 8 3/8" barrel, and fine Target stocks. This revolver still remains ideal for target shooting, recreational plinking, or use as a training revolver to save some expense on centerfire ammunition. With its classic quality craftsmanship, they quite literally do not make them like this anymore. This is a wonderful opportunity at an old-school Smith & Wesson revolver.
Pistol