After years in the industry, it takes a lot to surprise me. However, Smith & Wesson released a video on the socials that truly shocked me — in the best way possible.
I’m a huge wheel-gun fan and am partial to Big Blue. I own plenty, both new and vintage. I’m always searching for them, either in online auctions or at mom-and-pop gun shops I stumble upon.
Yet, I never would have thought Smith would release the Model 1917 or Model 22 again. But they have — and I’m all for it.
The new Model 1917 and 22 fall under Smith’s Classic line. Grab your satchels and fedoras, and let’s dive in.
SPECS
Inspired by two of the most iconic large-frame revolvers in the company’s history, these new offerings combine period-correct styling and heritage-driven features with the quality and reliability expected of a modern Smith & Wesson revolver.
The standard specs are as follows:
| Specification | Model 1917 Classic | Model 22 Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Single/Double Action | Single/Double Action |
| Frame Size | N | N |
| Frame | Carbon Steel | Carbon Steel |
| Color | Blued | Blued |
| Grip | Wood | Wood |
| Caliber | .45 ACP (with moon clips) | .45 Colt and .45 ACP (with moon clips) |
| Capacity | 6 | 6 |
| Sights | Fixed Blade | Black Serrated Ramp |
| Barrel Length | 5.5″ | 4″ |
| Overall Width | 1.71″ | 1.71″ |
| Height | 5.38″ | 5.38″ |
| Weight | 36.6 oz. | 35.6 oz. |
| MSRP | $1,299 | $1,299 |
FEATURES
Smith & Wesson is bringing two of its historic, military-inspired revolvers back to the lineup: the Model 1917 Classic and the Model 22 Classic. Both are built on a blued N-Frame and chambered in .45 caliber, but each offers a slightly different take on the platform.
The Model 1917 Classic is chambered in .45 ACP and features a 5.5-inch barrel, a half-moon front sight, an original-style lanyard loop, smooth walnut stocks, and a six-shot cylinder cut for both half-moon and full-moon clips.
The Model 22 Classic offers more versatility with a multi-caliber cylinder chambered for both .45 ACP and .45 Colt. Its 4-inch barrel and serrated ramp front sight provide a more compact configuration while retaining the lanyard loop, walnut stocks, and moon-clip compatibility. And, perhaps, make your cosplay for the world’s most interesting archeologist all that more achievable (It belongs in a museum!).
Both revolvers blend period-correct styling with modern manufacturing.
ZOOMING OUT
As a collector and historian, I am beyond excited that Smith & Wesson is bringing back these two icons. And yes, I know the Classic line has been around for a while, but I never expected it to go this way. This opens the door for so many possibilities.
Perhaps a resurrection of the Victory? Or, I dare say, a Registered Magnum? (Perhaps sacrilegious, but I can dream.)
Stay tuned for more on these.
For more new release news, head over to the Cadre Dispatch.
