Smith & Wesson Model 48
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1959
Also known as: K-22 MRF Masterpiece
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 48 is a medium revolver built on Smith & Wesson's K-frame, introduced in 1959. Chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire with a 6-round cylinder. Built with a steel frame, this revolver continues Smith & Wesson's tradition of robust, reliable revolver construction. The 4.0-inch barrel provides an excellent balance of sight radius and portability, suitable for both duty carry and range work. At 1076g (38.0 oz), this is a substantial revolver that uses its mass to tame recoil from powerful magnum loads, making extended range sessions more comfortable. Smith & Wesson has been producing K-frame revolvers for well over a century, continuously refining the platform with improved metallurgy, ergonomics, and manufacturing techniques while maintaining the fundamental reliability and accuracy that has made their double-action revolvers the benchmark against which all others are measured.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1076 g (38.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 216 mm (8.50") |
| Barrel Length | 102 mm (4.02") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 38 mm (1.50") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 20 N (4.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 597 m/s (1959 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 461 J (340 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire · primary — also known as .22 WMR, .22 Magnum, 5.6x27mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Features: Adjustable Sights, Target Grips, Swing Out Cylinder, Transfer Bar Safety, Fixed Sights, Stainless Steel Construction, Exposed Hammer
Production
Production years: 1959-1986
Reintroduced 2011
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1986
Notes
Discontinued in 1986. The Model 48 was reintroduced in 2011 as a limited production model with a 6-inch barrel.
Background
The K-frame platform has been in continuous production since 1899, making it one of the most refined and proven revolver designs in firearms history.