Let's see your U.S. Model 1917 S&Ws!

PALADIN85020 · #1 09-21-2010, 01:52 PM

When I was a youth, these fine old revolvers could be had surplus for around $35.00. For many of us, the U.S. Model 1917 revolvers in .45 ACP were our first revolvers. They were cheap and the ammo was plentiful after WWII. Today, like many things, these old N-frames have become collectors' items. One of them could still serve well for a self-defense revolver, particularly with modern full-moon clips!

I have kept one; it's particularly interesting because it carries British proof marks. Whether it was lend-lease or not, I haven't a clue. Somewhere along the line it got repatriated.

I'm sure many of you have one or more of these old war horses that were spawned in the World War I period. Let's see what ya got!

John

s&wchad · #2 09-21-2010, 02:14 PM

I have two US Model 1917 revolvers. The British got their hands on one of mine too, it's stamped everywhere including between the cylinder notches. The other is an off brand.

DCWilson · #3 09-21-2010, 02:14 PM

That's a handsome gun with some appealing character lines on its surface.

Here's one I got several months ago. I haven't shot it yet, and from appearances it can't have been shot much at all by prior owners.

January 1918 -- still has the early production characteristics like the dished stocks, radially grooved hammer and GHS cartouche instead of the flaming bomb.

I also have a shooter grade second contract Brazilian (shipped 1946, made from 1920s parts). It shoots OK, but it needs a little more work before I will feel I have finished the light repairs and adjustments it needed to be tight and reliable.

There's also a 1917 Colt that is in pretty good shape. It and the Smith make a great pair.

popgun · #4 09-21-2010, 05:33 PM

Here's mine

bmcgilvray · #5 09-21-2010, 06:07 PM

Very fun revolvers to own and shoot. Here's the one that lives here.

Here it is shown reminiscing with its old army buddy 1917 Colt.

GF · #6 09-21-2010, 06:32 PM

This one's the "house gun", parkerized before I got it. Purchased for the princely sum of $250

.

I keep a little bit of everything clipped up for any kind of shootin' that I need to do!

"One of them could still serve well for a self-defense revolver, particularly with modern full-moon clips!"
paladin85020

Yes it could. Yes it does!

GF

m-1911 · #7 09-21-2010, 08:35 PM

Some of the 1917 herd. Looking to add one to the stable on Wednesday

JLM · #8 09-21-2010, 08:51 PM

m-1911, All I can think is "OMG!"

I salute you, sir.

jrd1976 · #9 09-21-2010, 08:56 PM

m-1911

That is disgusting and you have my congratulations.

Pisgah · #10 09-21-2010, 09:31 PM

Here's mine.

My grandfather served in the Army Medical Corps in WW1. When he mustered out in 1920, he bought his sidearm, and that's the original receipt for it that the gun is lying on.

lonegunman762x51 · #11 09-22-2010, 02:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by m-1911

Some of the 1917 herd. Looking to add one to the stable on Wednesday

You could share,,,,,,dang it. I have been hunting for a nice example for my military revolver collection forever. In the last three years there has not been one worth owning locally.

We have one gun shop that is owned by two miserable guys who put everything on gunbroker then spend all day shill bidding it through the roof, they had a decent 1917 and refused to sell it for the price on the sticker. They told me and a few other guys, "go to gunbroker and try and buy it there." UGH!!!

The only other guy had one with a replaced barrel, it had been replaced with a claw hammer and pipe wrench from the looks of it.

bettis1 · #12 09-22-2010, 05:28 AM

A complete rig. The M1917 Smith is an early first year with the GHS inspection mark and grooved hammer. It shipped to Springfield Armory in Jan. 1918. The M1909 Graton & Knight holster is dated 1917. The unused WWI web belt and half-moon clip pouch and lanyard are all dated 1917.

Bob

gjamison · #13 09-22-2010, 06:04 AM

i have 2 both are in very nice shape, gary i hope you
get that one on wednesday, i was going to try to go
but my gun funds are a little low. was in ohio for a show
did some buying. let us know how that 1917 looks. heres
one of mine...

4864 · #14 09-22-2010, 01:33 PM

This was carried by my Great Great Uncle in WW1. He was a Lieutenant in the 1st Infantry Division. Bullet hit to the crane and yoke area saved his life.

jsmith · #15 09-22-2010, 06:56 PM

This one is definately worthy!

I posted this one last year on the forum, serial #45. This one probably would have been in the first week of production. It lettered as being in the very first shipment to the Springfield Armory.

jsmith

james56 · #16 09-22-2010, 07:28 PM

This one was owned by a FBI agent that later became police chief for, four Different Police department's, where it was his carry gun. This research took almost 19 months to accomplish Theres alot of history to this weapon. The M-1917 was refinished at S&W in 1979 then he retired it.

computeruser · #17 09-22-2010, 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pisgah

Here's mine.

My grandfather served in the Army Medical Corps in WW1. When he mustered out in 1920, he bought his sidearm, and that's the original receipt for it that the gun is lying on.

That is great family history you've got there. I'm envious!

K.R._Rabbit · #18 09-23-2010, 11:42 AM

I picked up this 1917 a few weeks ago, an upgrade for me. I found this one with the plastic stag grips and missing the lanyard ring, I replaced the grips with the correct dished grips and a original lanyard ring. This revolver is an early one, it has the grooved hammer and the GHS acceptance stamp. The bore and front of the cylinders are mint and this gun shoots great. There is just something so comforting about this big, heavy revolver in my hand. I really enjoyed putting this one back together and I want to say thanks to everyone on this forum who helped me find the parts I needed.
Rabbit

rayb · #19 09-25-2010, 10:57 PM

Mine. I've posted this before. I believe it may have gone to Russia after WWI with the US Army's 339th Infantry when they were assigned there. Research continues.

rayb

4330Inroute · #20 09-26-2010, 12:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marvin Gardens

I'll Play!

Here is a bring home from the War to End All Wars. Early gun, probably first month of two of production.

Regards,
Bob
California

I know there is no dumb question except the one you don't ask but I'm puzzled. The U.S. Holsters shown with the 1917's are they carried butt forward? They look like a left handed holster carried on the wrong side. How do you draw the handgun out of them?
To be original issue and to have held up this long sure does attest to excellent workmanship.

Muley Gil · #21 09-26-2010, 12:34 AM

"The U.S. Holsters shown with the 1917's are they carried butt forward? They look like a left handed holster carried on the wrong side. How do you draw the handgun out of them?

It's called the cavalry draw. You turn your hand so that the back of it is towards your side and twist as you draw. Remember, the principal weapon of the cavalry trooper was the sword, carried on the left side and drawn with the right hand. The revolver was drawn with the left hand.

Muley Gil · #22 09-26-2010, 12:47 AM

Here's a commercial parts gun:

turnerriver · #23 09-26-2010, 02:14 PM

S/N 1185

I loaned Wyatt Burp a holster to use for a pattern & he sent me this as a first class thank you.

Regards,
turnerriver
SWCA # 1426

ronnie gore · #24 09-26-2010, 02:58 PM

here is a s&w and a colt

kwill1911 · #25 09-26-2010, 03:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pisgah

Here's mine.

My grandfather served in the Army Medical Corps in WW1. When he mustered out in 1920, he bought his sidearm, and that's the original receipt for it that the gun is lying on.

Would it be possible to see a close up or a scan of that receipt?

Thanks,
Kevin Williams

handejector · #26 09-26-2010, 04:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PALADIN85020

I have kept one; it's particularly interesting because it carries British proof marks. Whether it was lend-lease or not, I haven't a clue. Somewhere along the line it got repatriated.
John

After the Battle of France was lost, Dunkirk was evacuated in May and early June. The Brits and French had literally been pushed to the beach, and all troops that were leaving had left by June 4. Tens of thousands of French troops had to surrender because they could not be evacuated.
Britain had to assume invasion was iminent.

As Sir Winston said in the last paragraph of his speech to the House of Commons on June 4, 1940:
"I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and if the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once again able to defend our Island home, to ride out the storm of war, and to outlive the menace of tyranny, if necessary for years, if necessary alone. At any rate, that is what we are going to try to do. That is the resolve of His Majesty's Government-every man of them. That is the will of Parliament and the nation. The British Empire and the French Republic, linked together in their cause and in their need, will defend to the death their native soil, aiding each other like good comrades to the utmost of their strength. Even though large tracts of Europe and many old and famous States have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of Nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end, we shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender, and even if, which I do not for a moment believe, this Island or a large part of it were subjugated and starving, then our Empire beyond the seas, armed and guarded by the British Fleet, would carry on the struggle, until, in God's good time, the New World, with all its power and might, steps forth to the rescue and the liberation of the old."

If you have never read this speech, READ it.
If you can find a recording in Churchill's voice, LISTEN to it.
Dear Lord, could any man give a better speech than Sir Winston?

With that background laid, the point of all this-
Roosevelt ordered that "surplus" WW I weapons be sold to Britain.
Some were:
A total of 500 of the Model 1899 Navy 38 M&P's and Model 1902 Navy M&P's
20,000 Model 1917's

You will see all 3 models occasinally from this sale.
They were delivered between June and Sept, 1940.
So, when you see one, you KNOW you are looking at an S&W that saw The Battle of Britain!

PALADIN85020 · #27 09-26-2010, 06:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by handejector

Roosevelt ordered that "surplus" WW I weapons be sold to Britain.
Some were:
A total of 500 of the Model 1899 Navy 38 M&P's and Model 1902 Navy M&P's
20,000 Model 1917's

You will see all 3 models occasinally from this sale.
They were delivered between June and Sept, 1940.
So, when you see one, you KNOW you are looking at an S&W that saw The Battle of Britain!

Lee,

Thanks for that additional information. Looks like I may have a Battle of Britain relic!

Best regards,
John

4330Inroute · #28 09-27-2010, 01:44 PM

Thanks Muley Gil After reading your answer I looked up pictures of cavalry. I see how this draw would work. These holsters and 1917's are a real treat to see. I've always wanted one. I jumped at the chance to trade for a 1917 Colt years ago but I still want a Smith 1917.

By the way Winston Churchill was half American.

BHP FAN · #29 09-28-2010, 05:19 AM

mkk41 · #30 09-28-2010, 11:31 PM

Two old war buddies.

ElmerKeith · #31 10-07-2010, 04:49 AM

I have a question to all who use the M 1917 not only as a safe queen but for shooting the gun.

Do these M 1917 45 ACP revolvers regularly shoot to point of aim at 25 yards?

What about replacement parts? Are they still available today?

What should be considered when purchasing a M 1917 for using it as a working gun?

Thank you

Mack · #32 10-07-2010, 08:53 AM

Another Lend Lease with a bit of character.

bmcgilvray · #33 10-07-2010, 12:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ElmerKeith

I have a question to all who use the M 1917 not only as a safe queen but for shooting the gun.

Do these M 1917 45 ACP revolvers regularly shoot to point of aim at 25 yards?

What about replacement parts? Are they still available today?

What should be considered when purchasing a M 1917 for using it as a working gun?

Thank you

My Smith & Wesson Model 1917 shoots to point of aim with most any 230 jacketed or cast lead .45 ACP factory equivalent load as well as heavier 250-255 grain cast lead bullets intended for use in .45 Colt.

My Colt Model 1917 groups well but shoot low and left with all the above loads.

Replacement parts? I've not required any replacement parts for the 1917's I've owned but the internet is your friend and scarcely anything can't be immediately found there...for a price.

Ask and ye shall receive. The Forum can be a great place to obtain needed parts and members appear to be considerate in trying to help out.

If you are going to put a Model 1917 to work (and there's no good reason not to do so) then just keep it cleaned and lubricated. Don't expect a really nice example to maintain its collectible value once put to work but a garden variety worn example could retain most of its value while giving service if cared for.

If they don't suffer from such stupidity as slinging the cylinder shut Hollywood style or abuse with over-hot handloads, the Model 1917 will likely give absolutely no trouble. They are pretty sturdy and spry for being 90-year-olds.

Chuck Jones · #34 10-07-2010, 12:46 PM

It's the same old story, 1 week after buying the new one I ran across an old commercial model in nice shape at a reasonable price. I've only been looking for 20 years.

...of course I still have them both.

/c

Bat Guano · #35 10-07-2010, 01:01 PM

Curses. I got to play with one of those old $29.95 warhorses as a kid but by the time I had that kind of big bucks they had all been sold to more affluent collectors. Then the prices rocketted through the roof and stayed there. For decades now.

I have GOT to find myself a nice shooter 1917 one of these days, dang it...

cooker · #36 10-09-2010, 05:26 PM

Newbie here,just joined this forum for the main reason to research this piece I just accquired,rifling is excellent,action smooth as silk,serial # in the 33,000 range.Mainly was trying to figure a ball park value for insurance reasons,have seen everything upwards of $200 on,BUT,have at least learned some decent history.

Dave T · #37 10-09-2010, 08:22 PM

Cooker,

Who ever told you that '17 was only worth $200 was hoping to buy it from you. Not the best picture in the world but I think I see some original blue finish. Based on the prices I've been quoted (I'm looking for one too) your gun should start around $500 and upon closer examination might go higher.

Dave

cooker · #38 10-10-2010, 04:43 AM

Thanks Dave T,thought so,not really a collector,just tend to fall into stuff at times. The bluing looks to be all original with just a couple areas slightly "holster faded",looks a LOT better in person than the photo shows(light glare),when I get a chance an going to take some better shots.All writing is VERY legible,on barrel,under,and on butt plate,and no British marks(from what I read above),looks likme it belonged to an officer that probably had an office type job his whole life.I carried a Model 28 for 8 years in daily service that looked a lot worse.

jimmyj · #39 10-10-2010, 10:45 AM

Hi:
Was the boxed ammo for the Model 1917s already in the 1/2 moon clips?
Jimmy

handejector · #40 10-10-2010, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jimmyj

Hi:
Was the boxed ammo for the Model 1917s already in the 1/2 moon clips?
Jimmy

Yes it was.
I call the long box the "zig-zag" type, and the second box the "spoons" type.
Spoons type is VERY rare- I have never seen another box!

jimmyj · #41 10-10-2010, 01:06 PM

Thank you, Mr. Jarrett for the informmation.
Jimmy

bettis1 · #42 10-10-2010, 01:12 PM

Lee,

I sure need a box of those .45's in the moon clips for my display if you run across one (either style--or both) please let me know.

Thanks,
Bob

mkk41 · #43 10-10-2010, 09:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Muley Gil

Please , I beg of thee , I must know who made those grips and where to get me a set or two!

Muley Gil · #44 10-11-2010, 01:53 PM

Those were made by Forum member Kurac.

They have a nice "Coke" profile and are very comfortable in the hand.

Do a Forum search and he'll set you up.

mkk41 · #45 10-11-2010, 07:11 PM

Thaanks Gil! I simply cannot shoot my 1917 with the original stocks , and later Magnas are too 'square'. A friend has a similar set from Eagle and they feel much better.

Cocked & Locked · #46 10-12-2010, 08:26 AM

blasphemous 1917's

K.R._Rabbit · #47 10-13-2010, 12:14 PM

Wow, that 1917 in nickel really looks bad-***!

Win712 · #48 10-14-2010, 10:14 AM

I've shown this modified Model 1917 before. I purchased it from the now 80 year old son of a Detroit Police Department, homicide leuitenant, that was on the force from 1928 - 1953. Supposedly the modifications were done by a friend of his on the department by the name of Lew Sanderson. The grip frame was modified to accept the semi round but service stocks or the Sanderson's. The barrel shortened to 3 1/2" and a elevation adjustable front sight and windage rear sight. The holster pictured is a modified 1917 gov't issue that was carried by the leuitenant. The gentleman that I purchased this revolver had no children and wanted to sell it to someone that would appreciate it's history. Greg

Airedale · #49 10-26-2010, 02:35 PM

I just picked up a 1917 (sn: 1269XX) a few minutes ago. I'll look in the big book when I get home for a production date. Edit: SCSW no real help on date of manufacture. Anyone have more info?

It is a well done reblue with a set of diamond S&W medalion grips on it.

Looking forward to shooting it this evening.
Dave
Added pic:

tjpopkin · #50 10-26-2010, 09:11 PM

I have both new and old, Colt and S&W. The early Smith is,by far, the nicer of the 2 1917's, and is about a 95% gun. It shoots fine, but the modern PC gun is a lot more accurate.

Terry