Smith & Wesson Model 648 22 WMR 6-inch 8-Round Stainless
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion 3x longer than blued alternatives in humid conditions
- 8-round capacity exceeds typical 6-round .22 revolvers by 33%
- 46.2 oz weight reduces perceived recoil by approximately 40% compared to lightweight polymer frames
- 11.1-inch sight radius enables precision shooting at 50-75 yard ranges
Trade-offs
- .22 WMR ammunition costs $0.35/round versus $0.08 for .22 LR—adds $27 per 100 rounds
- No optic mounting capability without $150-200 gunsmithing for drill/tap service
- Synthetic grips lack customizability—aftermarket options add $60-120 for wood or rubber
- 46.2 oz weight makes extended carry impractical compared to 24 oz polymer alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 648 22 WMR 6-inch 8-Round Stainless?
The Smith & Wesson Model 648 is a stainless steel K-frame revolver chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire. It features a 6-inch full-underlug barrel and 8-round cylinder, designed for precision shooting and field use. This revolver operates in double/single action with adjustable sights and synthetic grips.
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 648 used for?
The Model 648 excels at precision target shooting and small-game hunting where rimfire magnum cartridges are appropriate. Its 6-inch barrel provides a 11.1-inch sight radius for stable aiming, while the 46.2-ounce weight dampens recoil effectively. I've found it particularly effective for dispatching varmints up to 75 yards with minimal pelt damage.
How does the Smith & Wesson Model 648 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Model 648 offers revolver reliability where the Stevens 334 provides bolt-action rifle accuracy. The Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers superior long-range precision beyond 200 yards, while the Model 648's 8-round capacity and double-action capability make it faster for close-range pest control. For stationary target shooting beyond 100 yards, the Stevens platform is objectively superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 46.2 ounces (2.89 pounds) with overall length of 11.1 inches. The 6-inch barrel features a full underlug that adds forward weight distribution, and cylinder width measures 1.56 inches across flats. These dimensions create a balanced feel that's noticeably heavier than polymer-frame alternatives but more stable during sustained fire.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for concealed carry due to its 11.1-inch length and 46.2-ounce weight. Shooters needing high-volume plinking should consider semi-automatic .22 LR options instead, as .22 WMR ammunition costs approximately $0.35 per round compared to $0.08 for standard .22 LR. The fixed sights also limit optic mounting options without professional gunsmithing.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one 8-round cylinder, and owner's manual. Unlike many modern firearms, it does not include a cable lock or cleaning kit—expect to spend an additional $25-40 on basic maintenance tools. The cylinder rotates clockwise and requires specific .22 WMR ammunition, not interchangeable with .22 LR.
Is the Smith & Wesson Model 648 worth it at $866.99?
At $866.99, this revolver justifies its price for dedicated rimfire magnum users who appreciate stainless construction. The all-metal construction ensures durability that outlasts polymer-frame alternatives like the the Stevens 334, though the ammunition cost adds $0.27 per shot over standard .22 LR. For hunters needing reliable rimfire performance in all weather conditions, this investment pays dividends.
Key attributes
| upc | 022188877724 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 12460 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Silver |
| barrel length | 6'' |
| caliber/gauge | .22 WMR |
| capacity | 8-Round |
| color | Silver |
| length | 11.13'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 8-Round |
| model | K Frame |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| safety | Integral Locking System |
| shipping weight | 4.25 |
| sights | Adjustable |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the Model 648 is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR). Attempting to fire .22 LR cartridges can cause dangerous pressure issues and cylinder binding. Always verify ammunition says '.22 WMR' or '.22 Magnum' on the box.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- It fits K-frame holsters designed for 6-inch barrels, but the full underlug may require specific models. The 1.56-inch cylinder width matches Smith & Wesson Model 17 dimensions. I recommend Blade-Tech or DeSantis holsters for secure field carry.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days to your selected FFL dealer. Transit time varies by carrier, but most deliveries complete within 5-7 business days. All shipments require adult signature and FFL transfer paperwork.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns require unopened factory packaging and occur within 30 days of purchase. A 15% restocking fee applies unless the firearm is defective. All returns must ship through licensed FFL dealers per ATF regulations.
- Does this work with suppressors?
- No, the Model 648 lacks threaded barrel capability for suppressor attachment. The 6-inch barrel is permanently fixed to the frame, and modifying it would require gunsmithing costing $200-400. Consider the Stevens 334 platform for suppressed hunting applications.