[rcmodel]

If it's a new 4" barrel it should be a reletavely painless task for a gunsmith to fit it to your gun.

If it is a used barrel, it has already been fitted to a different gun, and may or may not have enough barrel shank left to fit it to your gun.

If collector value is of no concern, it would be easier to have the barrel cut and a ramp front 18 style sight re-fitted.

At todays gunsmith prices though, you would probably be money ahead to sell the 17 and buy an 18 if that is really what you have to have.

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rcmodel

[rcmodel]

What the hey happened there?

I answered your post and now mine is older then yours!

Looks like I answered your question before you ask it! :what:

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rcmodel

[NGIB]

Found a well used K22 with 6" barrel for a very reasonable price. Lots and lots of holster wear but the action is solid. I was really wanting a Model 18 but can't find any that aren't priced crazy.

I saw that 4" barrels were available for about $100.

My question: Is this a relatively cheap and easy task to have a smith perform?

Has anyone undertaken this type of task?

I'm not looking to get this for collector value, this will be a shooter pure and simple that I can hand down someday...

[DaleCooper51]

I think you would have the best luck if you place a WTB ad here or over on the smith forum. Once you pay for the revolver, barrel, gunsmithing, etc you will most likely be into that revolver for more than its worth.

[Iggy]

NGIB

I think you should get to know that K-22 6 incher before you do anything drastic.

Then if you don't like it, for pete's sake sell it or trade it, but don't butcher it!!:eek::D

[NGIB]

The real problem when looking for DA .22 wheel guns is there just isn't much out there. As far as new guns, you got the Taurus 94 & Tracker and the S&W 317 & 617. This shortage of new selection appears to be driving up the prices of all the old rimfires.

Looked at all the major sites over the past few days and nearly everything is priced at "collector" prices. Damn I don't want to pay $700 for a Model 18 even if it has the original cardboard box. I buy guns to shoot and I just want a clean, even if somewhat worn shooter, not a safe queen.

I'd be more than happy to pay 300-400 for a good shooting old S&W but there just isn't much out there. Damn collectors...