Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this double-action revolver chambered for a high-speed cartridge developed after conversions of the Model 17 to the .224 Harvey Kay Chuck had proven popular for a penny-start auction; this is the Smith & Wesson Model 53, also known as the .22 Centerfire Magnum “The Jet”!
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A total of 14,956 Model 53 revolvers were produced between 1961 and 1974. This particular example dates to 1961, marking it as a first-year production model—a highly desirable distinction among collectors.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 53
Serial: K443025
Date of Manufacture: 1961
Caliber: .22 Remington Jet / .22 Long Rifle
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 8 3/8" Pinned
Optics/Sights: 1/8" Baughman Quick Draw Front with Installed Bushnell Magnum Phantom 1.3x20mm Scope
Stock/Grips: Oversized Walnut Target Stocks with S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Model 53 is a unique and often overlooked entry in the company’s storied lineup, chambered for the experimental .22 Remington Jet cartridge—a centerfire round designed to deliver rifle-like velocities from a revolver. Introduced in 1961 and produced through the mid-1970s, the Model 53 was built on S&W’s K-frame and featured a six-shot cylinder, adjustable sights, and barrel lengths of 4", 6-inch or 8 3/8". What made the Model 53 truly innovative was its chambering: the .22 Jet was created by necking down a .357 Magnum case to accept a .22 caliber bullet, with the goal of achieving extremely high velocities—upwards of 2,400 feet per second. This was a radical concept at the time, offering small-game hunters and varmint shooters a flatter trajectory and more punch than conventional rimfire cartridges. To accommodate both the Jet and more common rimfire cartridges, S&W included chamber inserts for firing standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition, giving the revolver added versatility.
Model: 53
Serial: K443025
Date of Manufacture: 1961
Caliber: .22 Remington Jet / .22 Long Rifle
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 8 3/8" Pinned
Optics/Sights: 1/8" Baughman Quick Draw Front with Installed Bushnell Magnum Phantom 1.3x20mm Scope
Stock/Grips: Oversized Walnut Target Stocks with S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Model 53 is a unique and often overlooked entry in the company’s storied lineup, chambered for the experimental .22 Remington Jet cartridge—a centerfire round designed to deliver rifle-like velocities from a revolver. Introduced in 1961 and produced through the mid-1970s, the Model 53 was built on S&W’s K-frame and featured a six-shot cylinder, adjustable sights, and barrel lengths of 4", 6-inch or 8 3/8". What made the Model 53 truly innovative was its chambering: the .22 Jet was created by necking down a .357 Magnum case to accept a .22 caliber bullet, with the goal of achieving extremely high velocities—upwards of 2,400 feet per second. This was a radical concept at the time, offering small-game hunters and varmint shooters a flatter trajectory and more punch than conventional rimfire cartridges. To accommodate both the Jet and more common rimfire cartridges, S&W included chamber inserts for firing standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition, giving the revolver added versatility.
However, while conceptually forward-thinking, the Model 53 faced several practical challenges. The .22 Jet's high-velocity claims were typically achievable only under ideal conditions and with a sealed chamber, such as in single-shot rifles. In the revolver platform, cylinder gap and case setback issues often led to performance inconsistencies, especially under rapid fire or with dirty chambers. Case setback—where the cartridge moves rearward due to high pressure and locks up the cylinder—was a particular problem that detracted from the revolver's reliability. Despite these drawbacks, the Model 53 has developed a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its rarity, mechanical uniqueness, and the bold ambition of its design. Today, the Model 53 is a fascinating piece of firearms history—a revolver that pushed the boundaries of handgun ballistics and showcased the kind of innovation that defined mid-century American gunmaking. Its niche status and limited production numbers now make it a prized addition to any serious Smith & Wesson collection.
Contents:
Contents:
This example will ship with the 7 nickel wash-coated steel inserts as pictured above!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
