[GerryRA]

I have a 6" K22 17-3 that I would like to rebarrel to 4" as a trainer companion to a 4" K38 15-3. Is it worth having a gunsmith procure and install the shorter barrel or would I be better off to trade for a 4" K22. The lack of the paperwork hassle for rebarrel vs. trade has to be worth some bucks in the equation.

[Vern Humphrey]

What is the dollar cost comparison?

If you like the gun, keep it and rebarrel, assuming the prices are comparable. Keep the old barrel, in case you ever decide to restore it to original condition.

[steveno]

find a M-18 S & W as that is what you are trying to build. I would not do anything to the K-22 other than keep as is and shoot it

[Standing Wolf]

I believe I'd leave a K-22 alone. I doubt they're scarce; it'll be a snowy day in hell, however, before Smith & Wesson makes another gun that good.

[Dienekes]

Without pulling the books down I can only guess that your M17 is a standard profile barrel for K-22s. Nice as K-22s are, they aren't that rare and a good gun ought to be shot. If you otherwise like the gun I would have it cut to 4" by a competent pistolsmith and enjoy it. I have a M18 that I use constantly and would not be without it. Mine is matched to my .357 as an understudy gun.

There is a chance that S&W would mount a M18 barrel for you but probably charge a lot more and you would have essentially the same thing as you would with the shortened barrel.