Smith & Wesson Model 22



The Smith & Wesson model 22 series of revolvers is a refined, commercial version of the M1917 revolver issued during World War I.

What is interesting about the Model 22 is that it was built to chamber pistol cartridges like the .45 ACP and the .45 GAP. It also allows for moon clips.

Description
It is a large frame double-action revolver chambered in .45 ACP using half or full moon clips. It may also use .45 auto-rim as they were designed for revolvers chambered in .45 ACP or .45 GAP using the half or full moon clips. Built around Smith and Wesson's large N frame, it was originally sold as the Model 1950 and is normally fitted with a 5½" barrel with no under lug and fixed combat sights. Target models are the model 25 and 26.

Current production
The Model 22 was re-introduced as the second limited production Thunder Ranch revolver in 2007. This gun features a 4" match barrel with under lug, fixed sights, coccobolo grips, and an internal lock. The popularity of this revolver led S&W to continue its production in its classic line as the 22-4. It is quite an accurate revolver and has a smoother trigger pull than the original, most likely due to improvements in production. A limited production of bright nickel-plated, NON-Thunder Ranch models were made. Exact numbers of production are not known to this author; but, they are some of the most collectible models of the 22-4 available. Only select firearm dealers were considered to be allowed to sell this particular model. A certain number of guns were made with a case-hardened (case color) finish by Turnbull Restorations. The finish done by Turnbull is a true case-hardened finish and not the chemical wash finish found on guns by other manufacturers.