Smith & Wesson Revives Model 22 Revolvers in Two .45 Versions

Smith & Wesson has released two revolvers styled after its historic models, the Model 22 Classic and the Model 22 of 1917 Classic, Gun Digest reports. Both pair the old look with modern manufacturing methods and quality.

Key points

• Shared basics: Both are large-frame, six-shot, double-action/single-action .45-caliber revolvers built on blued N-Frames, with smooth walnut grips plus a lanyard loop.
• Model 22 of 1917 Classic: It is chambered only in .45 ACP, and its cylinder is cut for moon clips, taking both half-moon and full-moon clips.
• 1917 details: This version carries a 5.5-inch barrel and a half-moon front sight.
• Model 22 Classic: It fires .45 ACP with moon clips or .45 Colt loaded straight into the cylinder.
• Classic details: Its barrel is shorter, at 4 inches, and it wears a serrated ramp front sight.

Quick take

Gun Digest's Adam Borisenko says the dual-caliber Model 22 Classic gives owners much more versatility than the 1917 model, plus a couple of practical upgrades. He adds that, good-looking as both guns are, they appear built to be shot, and he urges buyers to take them to the range rather than keep them as safe queens.

Read the full story at Gun Digest.