an you imagine wood grips being hand-fitted to a firearm today? That would only happen in a Custom Shop. But that was the norm back when these factory production-line third models were made. And that my friends, is one of the reasons I love the third model version of this gun.
Disclaimer: This blog post is being written by a guy that owns a 1997 Harley-Davidson Heritage Springer (FLSTS, which was designed based on the 1948 Panhead), and is disappointed that his bike has only one grease fitting.
Have you ever wondered what the big hullabaloo is about a Pre-64 Winchester? I'll tell you. In 1964 Winchester began using cheaper materials and processes, like CNC machining to make their guns instead of the old fashioned hand-forged way. Why did Winchester and all of the other gun makers move to machines from people? They had to in order to compete and survive. The big change occurred because of time and money, not necessarily because it was better. It was cheaper and faster.
Just Because CNC Machining is Cheaper & Faster, is it Worse?
Don't get me wrong, I'm not against CNC machining. I've been told by Ron, a reader of my blog who was involved in CNC machining from its introduction to the manufacturing process, that most likely the quality of gun parts produced by a modern CNC machine are superior to the older handmade versions. I yield to his expertise. But that doesn't change the fact that in my mind, nothing says "I'm Proud To Be American" more than these old Smith & Wessons from the 1950s. My old Colts and my old Harley Davidson too.
"Almost everything in life has a good side and a bad side."
Imagine a time when the serial number was placed on all of the major parts of a gun because they were handmade specifically to go together. Then imagine a time when machines were so good at making the parts that it didn't matter anymore if they were interchanged.
The pride of ownership that comes with one of these third model guns, when I think of the craftsmen and work that went into making them, well it's just not the same with these new guns. I don't own any plastic guns. Heck, I don't even own a plastic holster. Okay, I realize I'm getting way off topic and my blood pressure is rising a little bit. Let me get back to the third model Masterpiece.
Seller's Description: Smith & Wesson K22 Masterpiece, a 6-shot revolver chambered in 22 LR and considered by many to be one of the finest target revolvers ever produced. According to the serial number (K177155), this model was manufactured in 1953. Despite its age, it remains in very good condition overall. There is a cylinder ring from use and slight bluing wear on the right side muzzle of the barrel and side and front edge on the lower part of the frame. The frame also has small scratches on the bottom in front of the grip, the left side of the barrel has marks and dings, and there are small marks on the bottom and edge of the grips. Comes with a gold factory box.
Of the four third model guns I recently bought, this was the second highest price paid. High side? Yes. Am I happy? Extremely.
$1,476 Purchase Price Break-Down
- Online Price $1,350
- Sales Tax $108
- Shipping $18
In November 2021 when I was shopping for these third model guns, the going price seemed to be $1,000 to $1,500 for really good examples. And you know what? That should serve as a testament to these old guns, better than any customer review of a new one. In my quest, I made sure that each gun had all original matching parts, including the grips and original box.
Final Word
Why oh why didn't I pay attention to this gun years ago? There are many reasons I suppose. It's a lowly .22 caliber. It doesn't lend itself to concealed carry or self-defense. No, wait a minute. Every gun can be used for self-defense. Right now, my plan is to learn more about the third model guns and their history.