Number one is to get competent handgun safety and skills training. Not everyone you meet at the range will have the best advise.

Once you are comfortable with the 617, think about what you intend to do with a centerfire handgun. Informal range gun? Formal target shooting? Compitition?

The next gun should suit and follow the direction you want to take. You will know when it is time. If you have a club to attend watch what others like to shoot. make a few new friends and ask questions.

I love my S&W K-frames in .22 and .38 spec. You might think about a M14 or M15. They are great handguns. Maybe a M19 or similiar if you are thinking about 357 magnum.

Don't rush it and enjoy that 617.

LTC