S&W 22mag revolver

[LL617]

Well, haven't been on the forum in a while--hardly at all for a couple of years. Still figuring out the changes. Other changes are also happening. I may be getting better as I age, but I am having trouble with my thumbs. Holding my larger revolvers is getting to be a "pain". So I was looking at revolvers that carry a lighter load. I am thinking a 22 mag would be good. I actually have a snub nose for carry but would like one in a four inch barrel for "varmints" as well as target shooting. Anyone familiar with the relaunched Model 48? or should I look elsewhere?

 

[2500]

Welcome back. Just checked the website. S&W is currently offering a 4" and 6" model 48, also a 648 and a couple of snub nose 351s. I've never handled any of them, but I bet others here will be along shortly to fill you in. I think you came to the right place.

 

[SGT ROCK 11B]

I had two 22 Magnums and actually the 22 LR is a better choice. Ammunition is cheaper and easier to find.

22 LR is just fine around the ranch for varmints and target practice.

 

[afret]

I just got the 4" Model 48 a couple weeks ago and really like it so I ordered the 6" version. I had the 648 but I didn't really care for the full lower lug look and weight so I got rid of it.
I prefer the 22 WMR over the LR but the Model 63 is pretty nice and is lighter. The 4" 48 weighs 40.0 ounces with the red dot and the 63 weighs 26.2 ounces with the RD. I had to have the top strap drilled and tapped to put on a red dot on the J frame 63. My old eyes really need red dots over iron sights.

 

[bobsguns]

I have a newer 648 6". Very accurate, nicely made. Sadly, I've only shot it once. Also have the 351 but have never shot it.

 

[glenncal1]

Bass Pro had a used 48 (-7 I think) with the lock which I ignore, and the gun is a throwback to S&W of old. Accurate, good trigger and well finished. I purchased a new 648 about 9 month's ago and it is all of the above except it has a FTF problem that even a trip back to the factory hasn't fixed fully. Sadly when buying a new S&W revolver it is kind of a crapshoot. Find a nice 48-4 or older and you probably will never have a problem, just like the one I bought almost 50 years ago.

 

[Dino44]

I like 22 magnums. I have 351C, 48-4 4", 648 6", and 650 3". I have seen the 48-7 4" in local gun stores priced near $1000 dollars. For that money I'd try to find a used one for less. I bought my 48-4 for $800 total from a home-based FFL via the internet. He was local so I did get to do an in-person inspection. If you're looking for a new one, I strongly suggest you also inspect and handle it before buying one, given your thumb situation. Hopefully you live in an area with multiple gun stores.

 

[Riposte1]

I had two 22 Magnums and actually the 22 LR is a better choice. Ammunition is cheaper and easier to find.

22 LR is just fine around the ranch for varmints and target practice.

I had an 8 3/8" 48 in .33 Magnum, it only got ~1500 fps from that long tube. I traded it off because it didn't have a .22 LR cylinder which I found much more useful in our area.

I have a .22 Magnum cylinder for my Ruger Single Six - I seldom use it.

Riposte

 

[BabaBlueJay]

The kit gun in 22 LR is pretty nice. The 43c is smaller and lighter. I'd recommend 22 LR over 22 magnum personally.

 

[wproct]

I had an 8 3/8" 48 in .33 Magnum, it only got ~1500 fps from that long tube. I traded it off because it didn't have a .22 LR cylinder which I found much more useful in our area.

I have a .22 Magnum cylinder for my Ruger Single Six - I seldom use it.

Riposte

I hear you. I think I have owned 3 different Ruger Single-six .22 convertible revolvers, and I never fired the .22 magnum cylinder while I owned them.

 

[cowboy94916]

Prairie dogs, a Marlin 1894 lever 22 mag, 94/22M and Ruger single six with Magnum cylinder, made for a fantastic day of shooting in South Dakota, with now deceased friend.That was a number of years back. more then 10, but brigs back great memories.