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From the Vault: Smith & Wesson Model 18 (22 Combat Masterpiece)

Brownells, Inc.
Published on June 18, 2018
Category: Reviews
Duration: 1:47

Keith Ford from Brownells discusses the Smith & Wesson Model 18, a 22 caliber Combat Masterpiece. Introduced in 1948 as a companion to the K-22 Masterpiece, this four-inch barreled revolver featured a ramp front sight, ribbed barrel, target hammer, and wide target trigger. Ford highlights the hand-fitted nature of its taper barrels and notes its excellent shooting capabilities and growing collectibility. Production ceased in 1985, making these models increasingly rare and valuable.

Tags

Smith & Wesson Model 18
22 Combat Masterpiece
K-22 Masterpiece
Rimfire Revolver
Collectible Firearm
Target Revolver
Four-Inch Barrel
Hand-Fitted Components
Discontinued Firearm
Vintage Smith & Wesson

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Model 18, a 22 caliber 'Combat Masterpiece,' was introduced in 1948 as a companion to the K-22 Masterpiece. It features a four-inch barrel, ramp front sight, target hammer, and wide target trigger, with hand-fitted barrels contributing to its craftsmanship. Discontinued in 1985, it's now a collectible firearm valued for its shooting performance and quality manufacturing.

Chapters

  1. 00:13Introduction to Smith & Wesson Model 18
  2. 00:26Origin as Companion to K-22 Masterpiece
  3. 00:40Key Features: Sights, Barrel, Hammer, Trigger
  4. 00:52Hand-Fitted Barrels and Craftsmanship
  5. 01:04Shooting Performance and Collectibility
  6. 01:08Discontinuation and Current Market Value
  7. 01:26Quality vs. Quantity in Manufacturing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Smith & Wesson Model 18?

The Smith & Wesson Model 18 is a 22 caliber revolver known as the 'Combat Masterpiece.' Introduced in 1948, it served as a companion to the K-22 Masterpiece and features a four-inch barrel, ramp front sight, target hammer, and wide target trigger.

When was the Smith & Wesson Model 18 discontinued?

Smith & Wesson ceased production of the Model 18 in 1985, along with several other revolver models. This discontinuation has contributed to its growing collectibility and market value.

What makes the Smith & Wesson Model 18 collectible?

The Model 18 is collectible due to its excellent shooting capabilities, hand-fitted taper barrels, and its representation of a bygone era of quality-focused firearm manufacturing. These factors, combined with its discontinuation, drive its value.

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson Model 18?

The Smith & Wesson Model 18 is characterized by its four-inch barrel, ramp front sight, ribbed barrel, target hammer, and wide target trigger. Its taper barrels were also hand-fitted, adding to its unique craftsmanship.

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