I used to look down on revolvers. Then I grew up. I recognized them as cool firearms that are a lot of fun to shoot, and at their worst, they're better for self-defense than harsh language and a sharp stick. Far better.

Then Ruger announced it was ceasing production of most of its revolvers.

I get a newfound appreciation for wheel guns and Ruger stops making most of them, though the door is open for some of them to come back into being.

Luckily for me, Smith & Wesson has brought back a couple of fascinating models.

The new Model 22 of 1917 Classic recreates one of the most historically significant military handguns ever produced by Smith & Wesson. Chambered in .45 ACP and built on a blued N-Frame, this 6-shot revolver features a 5.5-inch barrel, authentic half-moon front sight, original-style lanyard loop, smooth walnut stocks, and a moon-clip cut cylinder compatible with both half-moon and modern full-moon clip patterns. Designed for collectors, military history enthusiasts, and revolver purists, the Model 22 of 1917 Classic captures the spirit and appearance of the original service revolver while delivering the performance standard of today's manufacturing process.

Also available starting today is the versatile Model 22 Classic, a modern interpretation of one of Smith & Wesson's most recognizable military-inspired revolvers. Built on a blued N-Frame and chambered for both .45 Auto and .45 Colt, the 6-shot Model 22 Classic offers shooters exceptional flexibility through its multi-caliber cylinder design. Purposeful refinements, including a 4-inch barrel and serrated ramp front sight, provide enhanced handling and sight acquisition while preserving hallmark features such as the original-style lanyard loop, smooth walnut stocks, and moon clip compatibility. The result is a revolver that honors its heritage while delivering practical shootability for today's enthusiasts.

Understand that these aren't tarted up modern-style revolvers with the Model 22 name slapped on it. These look like the real deal entirely, though made with more modern machining.

Recommended
Daycare That Tried to Shut Down Gun Store Neighbor Now Closing Its Own Doors Cam Edwards Armed Clerk Turns the Tables on Gunman Trying to Cover His Tracks Cam Edwards

The Model 22 Classic looks to have some serious versatility, especially if you're someone who already has a good bit of .45 Colt sitting around for some reason along with .45 ACP. Throw those in a moon clip and call it a day.

Are these defensive handguns? I wouldn't personally go with something like the 1917 Classic for that, due to the sights being less than ideal for me, but there's no reason beyond that where they couldn't. Plus, I'm a sucker for that old-school styling on a wheel gun. I grew up with my dad's Model 10 from the early 1970s, and to me, that's what a revolver should look like.

These models look like that.

I'm glad to see it.

Now, if I can get them to roll out a new Model 13 like this, I could replace Dad's old revolver that was sold decades ago with something that has a little more punch and versatility. Between that and a good .22, I'll be a happy camper when it comes to revolvers for a little while.

And I love to see old school come back, hopefully to roaring applause.