I have just reviewed 18 pages of posts looking for performance information on the S&W Model 617 10-shot. Using the search feature produces very limited results.

I love Smith revolvers, particularly those with the full underlugs. I have the 686 but want a .22 version and the 617 is a beautiful specimen. I've heard "rumors" they can be finicky and somewhat problematic but I want to hear it from the horses mouth, per say. I want to know what actual owners say about the 617. I'm looking at either the 4" or 6" model. What problems plague the 617, if any ? Thanks in advance for your help.

I have a 617 6" 6 shot, but I am in the market for a 4" 10 shot. I love mine...not finicky at all. I shoot mine mostly with Remington or Federal bulk from Walmart.

I'm not aware of any real issues with the 617. Like any rimfire they can be finicky with ammo and may shoot better with some brands/types. They are probably the best full size .22 revolver made today.

Here are some photos of my two 617-4s. I like the 4" the best as it balances well with the full lug. I had to get rid of the factory rubber grips so I put Ahrends grips on.

Wow. Nice guns ! Do the new production guns come recessed or flat-faced ?

I have a 617-3 6 shot and a 617-4 10 shot. Both have 6" barrels. I sent the ten shot back to S&W for a full tune-up and factory target sight/trigger options. It is now my favorite rimfire revolver to shoot. It does a great job with CCI Velocitors for hunting, but shoots well with most 22LR ammo.

Hi Sarge,

I bought one to be a practice gun for a 4-inch Model 19 and Model 686. There were no mechanical problems and the trigger was smooth right out of the box, perfectly suited to double-action fire. I just hated that round butt on a duty-size weapon. I carried a Model 19 for years as my duty weapon and my hand was used to the combat stocks offered by S&W. None of the stocks I was used to would fit properly on a round butt. There was a piece of the stock that was unsupported and broke off ruining a rather expensive pair of grips. Because of that I tried to trade the 617. I had a trade going with another forum member a while back for a Model 17 that was in not as good a shape. In the end he demurred citing concern the 617 as having an aluminum cylinder. I put a magnet to it and it stuck. The 617 remained pretty much unused until I picked up a Model 13 with round butt and 3-inch barrel. That changed everything. The 617 makes a great practice .22 instead of constantly firing .38’s and .357’s for a Model 13 3-inch or a Model 19 2 ½-inch. I had even considered shortening the barrel but thought better of it. That would appreciably reduce its value without a significant increase in utility. Later I picked up a Model 18-3. I found the 617 to be more accurate with a smoother action. If you are not bothered by using those “conversion grips” it would work just as well for a four or six inch barrel K or L frame.

Just my thoughts.

Bill

I was reading some reviews on Buds Gun Shop online and noted complaints about canted barrels, barrels coming loose and sticky cases. I was hoping these were just flukes but like I said, I wanted to hear from you guys and see what the consensus was. I appreciate the responses. Keep 'em coming.

They are recessed.

I waited a long time to find my 617. Luckily, member 410bore on this site had one for sale and we made a gun trade. Six shot or ten shots, it's the same frame revolver and the cylinder turns the same direction. Unless I'm unaware of more holes mean more problems. Aside from me adding a HIVIZ front sight, the below 617 is stock. I've had no issues to warrant any negative feedback.

I have a 4 inch model dash 6 purchased new. Not a bit of trouble. Great accurate shooter once sighted in.
A little pricey for .22 but is perfect for practise as fit and feel is like larger caliber revolvers and very easy on the wallet!

No complaints with my 10 shooter. Other than 4 extra holes to clean.

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NRA Certified Instructor & RSO

I concur. I was forced to purchase the same model new, as I could not find a 4 inch w/o the IL for sale after searching for quite some time. I purchased "The Plug" from our fellow forum Bullseye Smith and added a set of Ahrends smooth RB frame to SB grip conversions. NOW I'm VERY satisfied with the look and VERY happy with how it shoots. IMO, the 617 is the very best .22 LR revolver currently manufactured. They are NOT cheap, but they are worth every cent.......

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'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.

Every shooter should own at least one of these in either 4" or 6", doesnt really matter which length. Accurate, reliable, easy to clean, fun to shoot and cheap to run.
Mine will be getting a new .500" target hammer in a couple of weeks.
Campfire

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I love my 4" 617 10-shooter. Long ago I owned a 17 6" and I always thought that there was just too much wasted space around the 6-shooter cylinder. I found a used 617 for $520 and grabbed it. It has a better double action trigger than single and is a great practice gun for my bigger smiths.

I have put a bit more than 10,000 rouds through mine without a single issue. In the old blued K-22 without an undelug I liked the 6 inch barreled versio but with the 617's full underlug that became a bit too muuzzle heavy for my taste - I shoot the 4 inch S&W 617.

Just a couple of things to be aware of concerning the 617.

One is that cocked barrels do happen and in some cases it may be intentional. Before you decide that a slightly tipped barrel is plain wrong you should actually spend some time shooting from a rest and zeroing the the sights. If you find this results in the rear sight well centered in it's adjustment range, it's an indication the barrel was tipped to regulate the sighting to the frame. If the rear sight is way off center either return it for warranty service or have a gunsmith re-set the barrel on your dime.

Second, in most cases problems with sticky extraction are related to the ammo you've chosen to shoot. Some of the 22LR ammo being sold can be VERY foul shooting ammo and this can cause issues with extraction. In addition it can also lead to problems getting fresh rounds fully seated in the chambers, which then leads to issues with misfires. I've found the Winchester Xpert HV to be exceptionally accurate in my 617, however I've also found that I need to run a dry brush through the cylinder every 50 rounds or I'll start having issues related to fouling in the chambers. Because of this I normally use the Federal Bulk ammo because it's much cleaner shooting and the moderate loss in accuracy isn't that critical when just plinking.

BTW, in terms of accuracy I've managed 2 inch groups at 35 yards from a rest often enough with the Winchester that it's an expected result. As for the Federal, normally it'll range between 2.5 and 3 inches at the same distance. As for the wider variance in group size, IMO it's all me. When I'm shooting the Federal I tend to shoot faster because I don't have to worry about cleaning the cylinder during a range session.

Now for some specifics relating to the 617. Mine has the 6 inch barrel and it's weight is the same as my 6 1/2 inch model 610. Basically, they are unexpectedly heavy for someone not familiar with them. On the plus side is that the recoil is near nill and the 22LR is also a rather quiet shooting caliber. This makes them nearly ideal for starting a new shooter out. In addition they can also provide a good break from recoil for experienced shooters coping with a flinch.

If you are looking for a recomendation, I'd say start with the 4 inch version. As much as I enjoy my 6 incher it does get a bit tiring in an extended range session. That shorter barrel will be less muzzle heavy and also easier for a new shooter to hold steady. As for the perception of a difference in accuracy, that is simply a function of the sight radius. When equipped with a scope the 4 and 6 inch versions will display similar levels of accuracy and the 4 inch may prove to be a tiny bit more accurate.

Just from my own experience, I have a 10-shot dash 8 4".
I love it to death, IL and all. Honestly, I have had better luck accuracy-wise from it than I do my mint cond. 1958 vintage M17 8&3/8". Tried everything from Wallyworld bulk to Eley Match and CCI Green Tag. 617 won out everytime.

'Bout the only thing that could make me come offa my 617 is a clean M-1 Garand.

Like you I wanted an 617 4" for a practice gun and for shooting Ruger Rim Fire. I received a 4" model from my wife for Christmas and have shot around 1200 rounds through mine.

With the 1200 rounds through the gun I have never had an issues with sticky cases. In one session I shot around 400 rounds without any cases sticking or reloading issues.

The one issue I did have was with the cylinder not turning easy in double action after 150-200 rounds. After advise from others on this forum I stopped using bulk Federal and now only use CCI blazers or mini mags in the gun. What I found was leading on the top strap. There is a screw hole for the rear sight located in the gap between the forcing cone and the cylinder. Lead seems to collect here depending on the brand of ammo used.

I have 4 Smith & Wesson .22 Revolvers, 317 3",63 4",18 4",and 617 4". The most accurate for me is the model 18 followed by the 617 and 63 4". My favorites are the model 18 and model 63, however; the 617 4" makes a great practice gun and fun to shoot against semi's for Ruger Rim Fire.

Good luck with your search, the 617 is a great gun!

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MOTOCOWBOY

Wow. These are some really great responses to my questions. I really appreciate the candid and detailed answers regarding the 617. It sounds like a very good investment.

There is one problem with this however. It now appears I'm gonna be short some $700.00 + dollars as a result of a new purchase. Folks, I certainly appreciate your help. Thanks a bunch !

Works well all the time. Fun with the Monarch scope from bench rest.

I've never had any issues with my 10 shooter.

Wearing Nill grips and custom FO front sight.

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USPSA CRO
Patriot Guard rider

If you look hard enough you can find anything even blown up rugers - the smith 22's are great guns I have some that have been shot weekly for years - I can't think of a more durable , accurate revolver then a K frame 22

Just had to resurrect this thread. My 617 and it's first kill using CCI .22LR Shotshell.
A 2' long Copperhead taken from 5' away. Yes, it was a near disaster.
Good thing I was watching my footing.

I've been looking for a 4" 617 NIB for four months now. My LGS is telling me to be VERY patient, but has quoted me a price of under $800 "out the door", so I've resisted going the GB gougers route, but I can hardly stand the wait! I'm digging up ancient threads now!?!

For those that do have any sticky chambers with the 617, there has been a thread on the Gunsmithing forum regarding using a Manson Standard "Finish" reamer in the chambers. Since I did have some problems after 3-4 cylinderfulls in a couple different S&W .22 RF. I can report it works great, and at no sacrifice to accuracy. Just this Tues., after having reamed the 617-6 6" I shot on the standard B3 T&R target at 50 ft 20 consecutive rounds in the X ring and after 100 rounds of Winchester bulk 1280 fps rounds they could all be ejected with just minimal thumb pressure. I have since reamed a Pre 18, 34-1, 63-1, & 17-4.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

The first bought new a 10 shot 6" with an Il, I had no issues & was a bit more accurate than my current 4" 10 shot, but it felt muzzle heavy to me. It took me a long time to find a 4" for under 500$, and had to sacrifice a bit on condition. The current 4" is a -6, the chambers are fine & do not stick, HOWEVER the tolerances are so close, that carbon/unfired powder build up can bind the cylinder after app 100-150 rounds +/- depending on the brand of ammo. A couple of brushes nylon/bronze/stainless are needed for me. The stainless & bronze are rarely needed if I stay on top of it. Even though the 617 is a K frame & my 681 an L frame, they are for all practical purposes identical/ fit in the same holsters, and make for an excellent practice piece as well as being fantastic for steel challenge or bowling pin, (learn to shoot it double action only). +1 on the ansac speed loader & loading block. I'm still real fond of my ruger MKll bull bll but find I am using it less & less. With practice they are almost identical in accuracy & speed for me.

Have a 617-6 4". New this winter, shot hundreds of rounds and love it. Did change some springs to get a little lighter DA pull. Had some issues with hard extractions, tried honing the chambers without much success then one reamer that didn't help much. Ended up with a PTG Sporting reamer from Midway. This has a little more taper to it than the first one I tried and has cured my problems. Doesn't affect the accuracy and lets me run a whole range session with no problems
e.
PTG Solid Pilot Chamber Finish Reamer 22 Long Rifle Sporting

Mine had a tight spot on the recoil shield. Fixed quickly on warranty.
Now, its just perfect.
Likes Wolf Match Target ammo.
No extraction issues whatsoever.
Added the Uncle Mikes conversion grip.

New, it was $700 from D&L in Rhode Island. Great people.

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-jwk-
US Army '72-'95

I bought one new from Bud's, a 6". They had them in stock for less than $700 and I jumped at the chance. They were gone the next day.. I also have a canted barrel, just enough for me to see, one has to look close but it is over rotated. It does not effect the accuracy and may have been done intentionally. The trigger is great both SA and DA, I often put a spring kit into revolvers but no need with this one. NO issues with function, although case extraction can get sticky after a couple of boxes of ammo. It really depends on the ammo, Remington is the worst. Overall a very very nice 22LR revolver. Cleaning with 10 holes is a bit of a chore.

Passed on a 6 incher a while back, have regretted it ever since!

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NRA LIFE MEMBER

I recently bought a new 617 with 4" barrel and have shot over 1000 rounds with no problems. It likes anything CCI and Fed Auto Match ammo also.It groups Remington ammo well but it is very dirty and leaves alot of lead on the top strap. I haven't had any extraction problems have shot as much as 200 rounds without cleaning. I wish I had the money for a 617 years ago when I was a young man running my trapline but I made do with my old H&R 10 shot.

Sarge45 -- We have only rattle snakes here and I was wondering just how aggressive the Copperheads are? As long as you do not step under a downed log or rock ledge the rattle snakes will either leave you alone or at least give you fair warning. I heard snakes like the Black Mamba will come after you. Is that true of Copperheads?

On the subject of the SW 617 (4" 10 shot) I have shot that revolver way more than my 629's or 686's and it just keeps on working. It is a great classic and extremely reliable.

After hearing from my LGS that I might be an old man before they have a 4" 617 in stock, I started calling the local pawn shop/gun stores in the area. The third call was a huge success, not with a 4", which I'm still patiently awaiting, but they had just received a NIB 617 with a 6" barrel. I jumped on it. ($729.99+tax!) I'm picking up my new baby next Monday!

Congrats on finding one. I have a 617 with the 6" barrel. I find for a target revolver like the 617, the 6" barrel adds a bit of accuracy you will find very pleasing.

The trigger in single action is pretty good. As for double action, well, it's a little heavy, but this is common for rim fire revolvers.

Here is a picture of the one I have.

I about passed out when I saw this for sale on my local board. This would probably be the last gun I sold if I had to.

A couple years ago I was cruising through a LGS and spied a used 617 4" 10 shot for under 6 bills (included a holster). It never left my hand only to fill out the paperwork and dig out the cash. What a dream to shoot. Everyone at hunting camp always wants to take it out and shoot it. It's a perfect compliment to my 4" no dash 686. SWEET!

I have a trade in front of me. A 6" 617-4 for my SIG 225 (2001) Both LNIB. The 617-4 is a 2nd owner that he has never fired it. The 225 has had 50 rounds through it (I test fired when new.)
Looking at on line pricing these days, seems like a fair trade.
Sound like a good swap? (Probably a dumb question on this board) )

No trying to be offensive, but you would be very foolish to not make that trade. You could find dozens of 225s , for a lot less money , than another 617-4. Make that trade!

If/when you do get one, the best improvement you can make, IMHO, is to shoot the snot out of it. It just gets better & smoother. After app 10,000 rounds/brushing/cleaning, the binding cylinder issue is almost non existent and just about everyone that fires it, swears it has had an action/trigger job.

Thanks guys. I have cash offers of $800.00 on the 225. That's the trade value I am basing this on. Mint 225's have been in high demand lately. Will follow this one as mine is much nicer. http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=423721629

Thanks again!

I have a 617 6" no dash and I absolutely love it! I wish it was a 10 shot but 6 will do for now. Do the newer guns come with a TH and TT?

Ditto to all the other positive comments. The 617 will become your favorite range buddy. Mine are always in my range bag. Don't forget to get a speed loader or 10.

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srv1,
S&W sells a 0.400 mim trigger & a 0.500 mim hammer for the 617.
I installed an old 0.400 stainless trigger + the 0.500 MIM hammer on my 4" & an older chromed 0.500 trigger on the 6". Another 0.500 hammer is on back order with S&W. Also Hogue grips + the hogue cylinder release. Installed Wolff 13 lb rebound spring & a Wolff Type 2 reduced main spring in both the 617's. The profile barrel is on a 617PC gun that I imported from Germany.

Are the newer triggers serrated?

Smooth. Older triggers will replace the mim triggers. Drop right in w/o any issues.

I didn't own mine for more than a couple of outings with it. There were no functional issues, other than most lead .22 gums-up the chambers fast, then you have to use some oomph to chamber successive rounds.

I just couldn't abide by the 'feel' of the timing vs. the 6-shot K-frames I've had so much time with. To a lesser extent, the same issue I have with a + series L-frame.

I never was a fan of smooth target triggers. I like mine serrated. My 629 had the smooth trigger and I did not like it. The serrated gives me a better feel and grip. I prefer all of my guns to have serrated triggers. I guess I will have to use a shoe instead.

James

Had the six-inch model and liked it although it was a bit muzzle-heavy. I also think they're overpriced. 700 and up for a .22LR is a bit much, IMHO

I shot my 617-6 6" today. It's got a much smoother trigger, in both single, and double-action than my new Ruger SP101 .22 (which is an 8 shot, not 10). The 617 is pricey, but worth it IMHO. I'm STILL waiting for my 4-incher to hit town, by the way. It's now been 6 months since ordering, but I've been told it shouldn't be long now.

I have a 10 shot 4". It never gave me an ounce of problems. It is actually one of my favorite firearms.