I'm new to the forum as to asking a question,long time lurker. On the model 17 what dash number did S&W stop recessing the cylinder for the bullets and also when did S&W stop pinning the barrels on the model 17? or do they still do those two things?

The barrel pins went away c. 1982.

The counterbored charge holes remained on the rimfire revolvers. It went away on the magnum centerfire guns c. 1982. The L frame was introduced in 1980, and none of those revolvers had either feature.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

I have a 17-3 from 1980 that is P&R.

So I would say -3 was the last.

That gun is solid, well built, and very accurate. My only gripe is the external finishing/polishing of this particular example. I've been meaning to get it out and have some fun. I originally got it to dispatch chippys, but they've grown wiser after nabbing a few. So haven't used the old girl in some time.

Again, the counterbored cylinders did not go away on the rimfire revolvers, even today.

The pinned barrel on the Model 17 was eliminated c. 1982. That was five years into 17-4 production. So, early 17-4 revolvers had both P and R. In the midst of the -4 run, the P was eliminated.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Got it, Thanks for the quick reply, now i'm going to go find one of the earlier ones.