Smith and Wesson Model 48, 22 WMF, 22 mag K22 Masterpiece Magnum Rimfire
SOLD FOR: $1,006
WYO#: WY240321DK006
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 48, The K-22 Masterpiece Magnum Rimfire
Serial Number: 5K91783
Year of Manufacture: 1980s
Caliber: .22 WMR
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “22 M.R.F. CTG.”. The right side of the frame has the four line Marcas Registradas address. The sideplate has the Smith & Wesson logo. The yoke cut is marked “5K91783/ MOD. 48”. The yoke and sides of the grip frame have inspection marks. The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 8 3/8, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Partridge blade on a ramped base pinned to the serrated rib. The rear sight is a standard square notch S&W micrometer sight, adjustable for windage and elevation and is screwed to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood stocks with medallions. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp and strong. Overall, the grip is in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In my opinion this bore rates 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is a some light wear on the edge of the left side of the muzzle and one small smudge of blue missing on the leading edge of the frame. There are some scattered light handling marks. There is an extremely light turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup has hardly any play in lockup on each of the six chambers. The single-action is crisp and the double-action is smooth. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: none
Our Assessment: Though the .22 Magnum cartridge was developed by Winchester, their development of a firearm that chambered the cartridge lagged and Smith & Wesson was able to modify their Model 17 to accept the new cartridge in a matter of months. Voila! The model 48 was born. Since then, to this very day, it has remained a popular companion gun for rifles chambered in the same caliber. While this would also make a great companion gun, it’s a wonderful target revolver in its own right and in excellent condition, too. This one has an 8 3/8 barrel, patridge sights, and a great bore, it will be a great collectors piece or shooter for decades to come. Please see our photos and enjoy the auction.
K.F.
