Can anyone recommend a good holster for a S&W 617 6" K-frame? I'm thinking of something that looks nice (i.e. leather) to wear on the hip outside the belt. Obviously this isn't for concealed carry. If there's some other kind of holster that makes more sense given that it's not for concealed carry, then I'm open to reason.

Check out S&W's DeSantis holster for the 617. It can be worn either cross-draw or strong-side, and it's beautifully crafted. I like mine a lot--and of course it fits my 686+, too.

Another option is Galco. You probably have a dealer in your area that stocks Galco holsters. I have their K/L frame open bottom OWB retention holster and it works pretty well. The only issue is that it's not something that will allow a fast draw with a long barreled revolver, it rides high enough that it feels like you'll be pulling up almost to your armpit before the barrel clears leather. While it's not quite that bad, the difference between a 4 inch barrel and a 6 inch barrel is quite noticable. You'll also find that almost all of the holsters that are stocked are basic black, so they won't have much eye appeal. However, I find it very satisfying to be able to purchase something off the rack and take it home the same day. I've also found that they wear like iron, fit well, and have a very reasonable price.

I have a Simply Rugged "120" for mine and it is perfect. I like to wear it crossdraw when I'm out shooting and it is the bomb.

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