Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 08-13-2010, 06:28 PM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?

I've got a line on a couple of used Model 617's locally at decent (not great) prices. They're both 6", but one's a 6 shot and the other is a 10 shot. I'm interested in one to use as a practice clone for my Model 14 so a 6 shot is tempting, but are there compelling reasons to go with the 10 shots instead? Would one or the other retain a better resale price? Does the action of a 10 shot feel significantly different than a 6 shot?
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 08-13-2010, 06:32 PM
ken158 ken158 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: VA
Posts: 4,656
Likes: 1,431
Liked 4,474 Times in 1,919 Posts
Default

Ya know, a six shot revolver is kinda classic plus better chance of getting one without the IL - if you need more rounds, get an auto.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #3  
Old 08-13-2010, 06:44 PM
madmikeb's Avatar
madmikeb madmikeb is offline
SWCA Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Midcoast Maine
Posts: 1,552
Likes: 1,955
Liked 2,144 Times in 585 Posts
Default

I have 10 shot 617's in 4 and 8-3/8 barrels and a 6" 17 6 shot. They are all nice but I have to say that I like to shoot revolvers in steel plate and bowling pin shoots so the 10 shot is the only way to go. But for target, plinking and hunting the 6 shooters work just fine. So I guess it comes down to what you want to use them for. I personally can't say that I notice any difference in the feel of the actions. As far as resale goes I really haven't got a clue which would hold value better!
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 08-13-2010, 06:54 PM
whip2 whip2 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: North east Ohio.
Posts: 14
Likes: 2
Liked 4 Times in 3 Posts
Default

10>6 All things being equal, the math seems pretty simple to me.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 08-13-2010, 06:55 PM
Camster Camster is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Sep 2001
Posts: 3,795
Likes: 993
Liked 1,923 Times in 956 Posts
Default

The 6 shot guns usually have target hammers and target triggers,the 10 shots may not.I would lean toward the six shot version,since you mentioned having a Model 14.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 08-13-2010, 07:22 PM
Wayne M Wayne M is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Indiana
Posts: 847
Likes: 0
Liked 14 Times in 11 Posts
Default

If either gun is a pre lock gun get that one. If they're BOTH pre lock.......get a loan!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 08-13-2010, 07:32 PM
Dot_mdb's Avatar
Dot_mdb Dot_mdb is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Florida, USA
Posts: 707
Likes: 173
Liked 213 Times in 120 Posts
Default

I own a 6 shot. The best part is that you only have to clean 60% of the amount of chambers you would have to clean with a 10 shot.

Bill

Last edited by Dot_mdb; 08-13-2010 at 08:36 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #8  
Old 08-13-2010, 08:01 PM
CAJUNLAWYER's Avatar
CAJUNLAWYER CAJUNLAWYER is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: On da Bayou Teche
Posts: 18,393
Likes: 18,408
Liked 58,509 Times in 9,611 Posts
Default

10 shot-the price per hole is lower.
__________________
Forum consigliere
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #9  
Old 08-13-2010, 10:10 PM
5Wire's Avatar
5Wire 5Wire is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Portsmouth NH USA
Posts: 2,454
Likes: 1,723
Liked 1,575 Times in 625 Posts
Default

I can't come up with any good reason to avoid the internal lock on a recreational revolver, except, perhaps, cosmetic reasons. The ten shot is a lot of fun, more trigger time until empty.
__________________
Bob
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 08-13-2010, 10:14 PM
snowman snowman is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Rural NW Ohio
Posts: 3,387
Likes: 5,180
Liked 2,444 Times in 1,097 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dot_mdb View Post
I own a 6 shot. The best part is that you only have to clean 60% of the amount of chambers you would have to clean with a 10 shot.

Bill

Amen! If you despise the clean-up as much as I do, listen to Bill.

Andy
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #11  
Old 08-13-2010, 10:16 PM
goldenlight goldenlight is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: USA
Posts: 1,158
Likes: 2,291
Liked 394 Times in 221 Posts
Talking

I'd personally prefer the 10 shot.

Because.....it holds 10 rounds, instead of just 6!
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 08-13-2010, 10:50 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

I have a 10 shot 6" and 6 shot 4". I like the 4" better because i can shoot it better. Amazing for a guy with old eyes.

John
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 08-13-2010, 10:50 PM
lafayne lafayne is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Default

I have four 617's. Three are pre lock - one 4 inch and two 6 inch - 6 shot. My one 10 shot is a 4 inch drilled and tapped so it sports an Ultradot 30 and it gets a lot of shooting. One of the 6 inch has a better double action trigger and it also gets shot a lot. It is hard to pick a favorite. All are very accurate and I like and shoot them all. Given a choice and for similar dollars, I would buy the 6 shooter. They are hard to find now.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 08-14-2010, 12:42 AM
ol timer ol timer is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Rocky Mountains
Posts: 348
Likes: 0
Liked 28 Times in 14 Posts
Default

6 spent cases eject easier than 10.
__________________
NRA - All Day
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #15  
Old 08-14-2010, 10:26 AM
CAJUNLAWYER's Avatar
CAJUNLAWYER CAJUNLAWYER is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: On da Bayou Teche
Posts: 18,393
Likes: 18,408
Liked 58,509 Times in 9,611 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ol timer View Post
6 spent cases eject easier than 10.
Just load 6 for practice and maybe shoot one or two cylinders fully loaded at the end.
__________________
Forum consigliere
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 08-14-2010, 11:15 AM
Belgian686 Belgian686 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Belgium, Europe
Posts: 207
Likes: 288
Liked 384 Times in 80 Posts
Default

I prefer the 6-shot versions, as the cylinder looks better IMO than with a 10-shot version. Same goes for a 8-shot model 63, which is not so good looking as the 6-shot old version. However, 6 or 7 on a 686/686+ have almost no 'visual' impact, but with more a gun looses it's classical look and seem like cheap stuff.

If it would be an unfluted cylinder, I would mind less. But maybe that's only me.
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 08-14-2010, 11:51 AM
primersp primersp is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: france
Posts: 211
Likes: 80
Liked 90 Times in 43 Posts
Default

i have a 10 shoots 4 " the only bad thing it's long to clean when i bought it i'm looking for a 34 or 18 ,2 months lather i see a add for a 34 4" like new and at fair price (250 euro)
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 08-14-2010, 01:45 PM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default

I called the dealer and they're holding the pre-lock 6" 6 shot for me. I'll check it out later today and if everything looks good I'll put a deposit on it and get a purchase permit on Monday.
Anything in particular I should look for beyond the usual checks? Is there any way to tell if it's been dry fired? From what I read on the S&W site that dry firing a rim fire revolver can damage the firing pin.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 08-14-2010, 03:00 PM
scooter123 scooter123 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Metro Detroit, Michigan
Posts: 6,916
Likes: 179
Liked 4,287 Times in 2,102 Posts
Default

On the 617 with the standard firing pin, IMO the only harm that dry firing will do is stress the hammer. The fact is the firing pin doesn't extend far enough to contact the cylinder so the only real harm is the shock that the hammer strike causes. There isn't anything present to cushion the hammer fall when it falls so that it shoots the firing pin forward and then hits the frame, so it's a heck of a shock. I seen reports of hammer spurs breaking off due to excessive dry firing and suspect that it no applies to any S&W with a frame mounted firing pin.

Best way to avoid this problem is by using snap caps to act as a cushion for the firing pin and hammer. However you cannot find snap caps for rimfires, so in this case it's best to save your fired brass and use an undimpled area on the rim for each dry fire strike. It's a big PITA but it will protect the gun. BTW, if you compare the noise with an undimpled area under the pin to one that has been struck, you'll note that it's distinctly different.

BTW, I prefer the 6 shot 617. Not only is there less to clean but it's also less time waiting for smoke to clear. I do most of my shooting at indoor ranges because outdoor rages in my area are a minimum 35 mile drive. One thing about shooting 22LR in a revolver is that it's a very smoky shooting round. So much so that I have to wait for hte smoke to clear after 6 shots so I can see the target. With my 6 shooter, I'm reloading at that point, so the smoke has a chance to clear. With a 10 shooter it would probably mean shooting 5 at a time with a pause as long as a reload takes to wait for the smoke to clear. So, for me, a 6 shooter is a more logical choice. Plus, it's traditional and I like tradition.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 08-14-2010, 05:14 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

From what I'm reading most of you prefer the 6 shot because It "looks" better or more "traditional". That is a poor way to choose a firearm. I'm not trying to be mean or personal, just an observation.

IMO that is very faulty way to make a decision. The choice should be by the one that shoots the best. That is not always possible so the one that locks up good and doesn't have timing issues. One that appears not to have been messed with. Other things to look for would be barrel/cylinder gap. Is there any end shake, etc.

John
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 08-14-2010, 05:20 PM
stevieboy stevieboy is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Posts: 1,450
Likes: 0
Liked 40 Times in 25 Posts
Default

I own a 6-shot 617-1 4". I prefer this configuration because it exactly replicates my K-frame Model 66. The trigger pull is virtually identical to that of the 66 and thus, the gun makes a perfect training gun.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 08-14-2010, 05:26 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

Why wouldn't a 10 shot 4" make a good training gun for your 66?

John
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 08-14-2010, 06:03 PM
scooter123 scooter123 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Metro Detroit, Michigan
Posts: 6,916
Likes: 179
Liked 4,287 Times in 2,102 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by jspick View Post
Why wouldn't a 10 shot 4" make a good training gun for your 66?

John
The problem is that you'll train yourself out of the need to reload after 6 shots. In an actual gunfight making that mistake could get you killed. It will also have a rather severe effect on your scores in a competition such as IDPA because when you get a click instead of a bang it will take a bit of time for your brain to shift gears.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #24  
Old 08-14-2010, 07:36 PM
stevieboy stevieboy is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Posts: 1,450
Likes: 0
Liked 40 Times in 25 Posts
Default

Exactly. When I shoot, I've trained myself to count to six.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 08-14-2010, 07:48 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

You train yourself to count to 6??????

If you live where you need that kind of mental training then you would better off moving someplace a little more friendly. I live in grizzly bear country and have prepared myself. But not to combat status like you. Living like that is waaaaaayyyyyyy intense way to live.

There has to be a better palce to live.

John
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 08-14-2010, 07:56 PM
Wayne M Wayne M is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Indiana
Posts: 847
Likes: 0
Liked 14 Times in 11 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by CAJUNLAWYER View Post
10 shot-the price per hole is lower.
Good one! Reminds me of the guy when ordering a large pizza and asked if he wanted it cut in eight pieces or twelve replied "Better make it eight, I don't think I can eat twelve."

Sorry......couldn't resist.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 08-14-2010, 08:37 PM
one eye joe's Avatar
one eye joe one eye joe is offline
US Veteran
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: New England
Posts: 4,190
Likes: 3,543
Liked 3,996 Times in 1,627 Posts
Default

IMHO there are FEW ''valid'' reasons to favor a 6 shot over a 10 shot. Anyone who can ''train'' themself to count to 6, ought to be able to ''train'' themself to count to 10 also. Hopefully nobody's carrying a 617 for SD, so that ''reloading in a gunfight'' scenario is moot. Being too lazy to clean 4 more cylinders is shameful. The IDPA angle has some credibility, however. In any event, either configuration of the 617 is a fine revolver.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 08-14-2010, 08:49 PM
Loco Weed Loco Weed is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Alabama
Posts: 276
Likes: 3
Liked 7 Times in 5 Posts
Default

I have a ten shot because they don't make a fifteen shot. The more the merrier.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #29  
Old 08-14-2010, 08:49 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

Right on-- one eye joe. Well said.

Now that is a unique perspective there Loco Weed. ha ha

I have a 6" 10 shot and a 4" 6 shot. I like the 4" better, not because it is a 6 shot but because I can hit with it.

I honestly believe that the 6" is to front heavy "for me". I do have some health problems and the meds gives me tremors and I have to work harder with the 6" to shoot it well. If the 4" was a 10 shot I would probably favor it, even with the dreaded lock!!!

John
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 08-14-2010, 10:01 PM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default

Well, that was a disappointing trip. The 6 shot 6" looked like it hadn't been cleaned or maintained in a few years and didn't carry up properly on 5 of the 6 chambers. I pointed it out to the kid who waited on me and his reply was "Yeah, we don't do anything to the used guns we take in." That certainly gave me serious doubts. I pointed out the uneven build up around the forcing cone and showed him the timing problem and asked if they'd knock any off the price because of the issues. He took it over to another guy who rapidly dry fired it a bunch and said there wasn't any problem, but they'd take $25 bucks off.
I was reasonably confident I could fit a new hand and fix the timing for $25, but I didn't know what other problems I might find and didn't like the guy's attitude, so I left with my money still in my wallet. Too bad, I would have liked having a 6 shot 617 to practice with so I'm not shooting up all my target loads in my Model 14. I guess I'll keep looking.
FWIW, the 10 shot 617 had even worse timing issues and didn't reliably lock up on one chamber even in single action!
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 08-14-2010, 11:18 PM
Sparrowbird Sparrowbird is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Central Illinois
Posts: 101
Likes: 1
Liked 8 Times in 7 Posts
Default

I ain't seen anyone say anything about a 10 shot 8 3/8. I sure do like it!!!!!!!!!!!
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 08-14-2010, 11:18 PM
jspick jspick is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Montana
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 539
Liked 586 Times in 186 Posts
Default

ric426,

Sorry to hear that. That is why a lot of used guns are on the used market. It takes a lot of shopping to find one that is a keeper. There is a 4" model 67 I know of that has been for sale for several months now because of timing issues. As long as the price stays high it won't sell, but if the price drops I will have a project gun. It is a solid gun, just not worth what they are asking for the condition it is in.

One thing to check is if the gun is real dirty. The dirtier it is the looser it will be and sometimes will cause timing issues. I bought a 66 once that was filthy and had timing issues and was loose. It looked real good other than being dirty. I took it home and took it all apart and gave it a good cleaning and WOW, no timing issues, locked up tight and was a great shooter. Not all turn out like that but if one of my smiths starts getting "loose" I take it apart and clean it up and shazam! It is tight again!!

The big thing is the slot the hand goes in. If there is dirt on the hand or in the slot that can cause lots of problems.

John
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 08-14-2010, 11:57 PM
gr7070's Avatar
gr7070 gr7070 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: May 2010
Posts: 1,047
Likes: 53
Liked 234 Times in 147 Posts
Default

If y'all need a training gun to be so similar to the actual gun that a 10-shot is too different to replicate a 6-shot then a .22 really isn't close enough at all.

The lack of recoil is far more different a 6 v. 10 timing is.

Buy whichever y'all like most, but I wouldnt let any silly notion that 10 shot isn't close enough to the real gun when neither of them doesn't have any recoil to speak of.

The 617 us an awesome gun and so is the 686. It's great their similar; it's partly why own both. However, they're similarities end long before we get to minute timing differences.

Last edited by gr7070; 08-15-2010 at 12:01 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 08-15-2010, 12:15 AM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default

Well, part of that notion of using the 617 as a training gun is to work on basics like trigger control and sight picture, but when you get right down to it, it's a good excuse to get another gun.

Plus, it'd be a good gun to use to introduce my wife to shooting.

See? I can come up with all sorts of justifications.

I haven't totally ruled out the 617 I looked at. I'm just trying to decide if I want a project gun right now. If the guy at the shop had shown a different attitude instead of acting like I was being unreasonably picky, I might have put my money down, but I didn't want it bad enough that I couldn't walk away and think about it.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 08-15-2010, 12:18 AM
clang444 clang444 is online now
US Veteran
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: IL
Posts: 1,852
Likes: 1,023
Liked 3,562 Times in 951 Posts
Default

Some of the 10 shot 617s had aluminum cyliders - that would be a turn off to me.
__________________
My sgntr is mor thn 30 chrctrs
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 08-15-2010, 12:22 AM
gr7070's Avatar
gr7070 gr7070 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: May 2010
Posts: 1,047
Likes: 53
Liked 234 Times in 147 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ric426 View Post
If the guy at the shop had shown a different attitude instead of acting like I was being unreasonably picky, I might have put my money down
that sounds a bit like cutting off your nose to spite your face. If the gun is worth having at the price and it's what you want don't let the guys attitude stop you.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 08-15-2010, 12:59 AM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by gr7070 View Post
that sounds a bit like cutting off your nose to spite your face. If the gun is worth having at the price and it's what you want don't let the guys attitude stop you.
Well, you haven't seen my face!

Like I said, I haven't ruled it out, but I wasn't so anxious to buy it that I couldn't walk away and think about it some more. After reading some more comments in other threads I may roll the dice and go for it. It sounds like a thorough cleaning and some TLC might bring the timing back to where it should be and I wouldn't mind spending the time tinkering with it. I can't do anything until I pick up a purchase permit on Monday anyway.
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 08-16-2010, 12:00 AM
beach elvis beach elvis is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Joplin, MO.
Posts: 646
Likes: 133
Liked 417 Times in 120 Posts
Default

Be glad you didn't take the one that got dry-fired.
Now, it's possible, if not probable, that there are peen marks on the edge of each chamber.
It's also possible that the firing pin has been damaged or at least had its service life shortened.

For thems what knows not: Rimfire revolvers aren't meant to be dryfired without snap caps or at least spent cases in the chambers.
(Needless to say, please check that the cases ARE spent.:-)
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 08-16-2010, 07:58 AM
fyimo's Avatar
fyimo fyimo is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Arkansas
Posts: 18,773
Likes: 6,048
Liked 5,762 Times in 1,992 Posts
Talking

You wouldn't go wrong with either one as they are built like tanks. I have a very early 617 6 shot model with a 6 inch barrel and I love it but I'm sure the 10 shot model shooters love theirs as well.
Reply With Quote
  #40  
Old 08-16-2010, 09:58 PM
ric426 ric426 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: S.E. Michigan
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 4 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by gr7070 View Post
that sounds a bit like cutting off your nose to spite your face. If the gun is worth having at the price and it's what you want don't let the guys attitude stop you.
You sir, are absolutely right. I went back today and gave it another look and took it home with me. It didn't look like it'd been abused, just not maintained very well. They gave me $25 off based on the overall condition and after an hours worth of detailed cleaning I can see that it's really in pretty good shape. Judging by the incredible amount of crud under the extractor alone, it's a testament to S&W that the gun could cycle at all.
It's cleaning up real nice and I'm feeling pretty good about it. Another couple hours of detailing, some action polishing and new springs is going to yield a nice gun. I think it'll be the gun that my wife will like to learn to shoot with. That alone will be worth the price.
Thanks to all for the advice and opinions. It's nice to have folks around to keep my thinking on track.
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 08-16-2010, 11:25 PM
PattonTime's Avatar
PattonTime PattonTime is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: Minneapolis,MN
Posts: 668
Likes: 38
Liked 104 Times in 65 Posts
Default 617

My opinion is that they are all wonderful guns. I own a 6 shot four inch a 10 shot four inch and two 6 shot six inchers. I like the 10 shot a lot .
As far as condition, all 617's were made after 1989 so they have fully transferable lifetime warranties from the factory.
I bought a 686 2.5 inch gun from a fellow forum member, it had very excessive endplay but looked very nice cosmetically.
I never even told him I did not want to haggle about it, I just called Smith customer service, sent it in and got it back as new . It is now one of my favorites. Isn't Smith & Wesson great !!!
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 08-16-2010, 11:40 PM
gr7070's Avatar
gr7070 gr7070 is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: May 2010
Posts: 1,047
Likes: 53
Liked 234 Times in 147 Posts
Default

I guess it costs them labor which can be rather expensive, but it's hard to imagine they wouldn't bother cleaning up the gun some.
Reply With Quote
  #43  
Old 08-17-2010, 12:28 AM
Kanewpadle's Avatar
Kanewpadle Kanewpadle is offline
US Veteran
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Wrong side of Washington
Posts: 10,167
Likes: 13,001
Liked 17,085 Times in 5,125 Posts
Default

I just bought a used six shot 617 no dash. I too looked at a brand new 10 shot.

I did a little research online and found there are some problems with the newer 10 shot 617's.

Mine has the wide trigger and hammer. No lock. And it's a pleasure to shoot. Six or ten shots, doesn't matter to me.

IMO, the older revolvers are built better.
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 08-17-2010, 06:40 PM
Ethang Ethang is offline
Member
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Detroit
Posts: 1,051
Likes: 770
Liked 909 Times in 398 Posts
Default

My 617 6 shot was a training gun for a community college police academy. I don't know the round count but it has to be a lot. Mine still locks up tight and is much more accurate then I am. I have shot several thousand Wally World federals through it. This would be one of the last guns I ever parted with. Your made a good buy no matter what the condition was.
Reply With Quote
  #45  
Old 05-10-2017, 06:41 PM
buckyjames1 buckyjames1 is offline
US Veteran
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Virginia Beach Va.
Posts: 240
Likes: 3
Liked 121 Times in 55 Posts
Default

Is it possible to time a 6 shot to an original 10 shot 617?

Reaming...reaming to a .22WMR, thats why
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #46  
Old 05-11-2017, 07:19 AM
one eye joe's Avatar
one eye joe one eye joe is offline
US Veteran
Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot? Model 617: go for 6 shot or 10 shot?  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: New England
Posts: 4,190
Likes: 3,543
Liked 3,996 Times in 1,627 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by PattonTime View Post
My opinion is that they are all wonderful guns. I own a 6 shot four inch a 10 shot four inch and two 6 shot six inchers. I like the 10 shot a lot .
As far as condition, all 617's were made after 1989 so they have fully transferable lifetime warranties from the factory.
I bought a 686 2.5 inch gun from a fellow forum member, it had very excessive endplay but looked very nice cosmetically.
I never even told him I did not want to haggle about it, I just called Smith customer service, sent it in and got it back as new . It is now one of my favorites. Isn't Smith & Wesson great !!!
ITS NICE TO READ SOMETHING POSITIVE ABOUT S&W CUSTOMER SERVICE, FOR A CHANGE......
__________________
'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
22lr, 617, 686, extractor, fluted, idpa, k-frame, lock, model 14, model 63, model 66, rimfire, sig arms, ultradot, unfluted

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
WTB: Deluxe Moonclip Tool w/ 6-shot 45 acp & 8-shot 357 mag arbors ptgarcia WANTED to Buy 1 07-26-2016 07:01 AM
8 shot speed strip for 5 shot j frame sipowicz Concealed Carry & Self Defense 36 05-29-2014 12:00 AM
Swapping parts to convert 686 (6 shot) to Plus (7 shot) Zumkopf S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 1 11-13-2013 11:29 AM
Shooting from the Hip on Top Shot Target shot by McGivern bmg60 S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 3 09-21-2011 03:08 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 05:24 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)