S&W nickel K22 question

[Tylden]

A friend of mine at work has a K22 (serial # K3235xx), it's a 4 screw with the original diamond grips, patridge site, 10 groove top and backstrap, target hammer and trigger, 6 inch barrel.....in NICKEL. According to the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd edition, the serial number indicates it was made in 1958. The odd thing is, there isn't much info on the nickel finished guns other than being scarce, and a couple of special production runs that this gun does not coincide with. There is no model number stamped on the crane and the serial number is located on the bottom of the butt. Does anyone know what he has here ? Is this a pre 17 or possibly an early model 17 ?? By the way, it's not for sale....just want to help a friend learn about his gun. The condition is pretty good overall, but has its fair share of holster wear and a few scratches, but nothing major. It has been a shooter, not a safe queen. Any insight would be greatly appreciated here....our curiosity levels are at an all time high lol. Thanks

 

[deadin]

The only way to find out for sure would be to spend the $30 for a factory letter. It will tell if the gun was an original nickel or not.

Dean

 

[Revolver fanatic]

Hello
Nickel was Not common on them, But it could have been ordered back Them you can Look up in the extractor rod cut out for the Letter N Stamped there. Also check the Grip frame for the Letter N and the Face of the cylinder. It was common back then to Stamp the Letter N On parts of the revolver to Insure they got a finer Polish and went back tothe same frame after the finish was applied. I hope this Helps, Revolver Fanatic