I've searched around for other threads referring to 617 dash numbers, but didn't find the specific information I was looking for.

I just purchased a brand new 617-5, and was wondering when did they start and stop making these? It would also be nice to know when they produced each of the other models if anyone knows of a list that gives details on each of them.

The newest thread I could find related to the different variations was from around 2010, and it indicated that the 617-6 was the newest and current production model. Is this still the case, or is there a 617-7 and above?

I was also wondering if there are any benefits to the 617-5 over other models?

Thanks for everyone's input.

I bought a new -6 last month. I don't know what "dash" took them to 10 rounds capacity, but in my case, I'd prefer 6 rather than 10. My gun club has a "max 5" loading rule, and with 10, it's harder to line up the correct empty chamber under the hammer (less metal between each chamber).
A goof and you have a "dry fire", which S&W says "don't do it".

My range also has the "max 5"rule. This is a definite downside to the 10 shot. I wish they still offered the 617 in a 6 shot.

I found a list that listed which ones were 6 and 10, which oddly they went back and fourth.

617-0 (I don't know if if it's actually -0 or just no dash, that's just what was listed) = 6 shot
617-1 = 6 shot
617-2 = 10 shot
617-3 = 6 shot
617-4 = 10 shot
617-5 = 6 shot
617-6 = 10 shot

Max 5 rule!? What a dumb rule. I've never heard of such a thing.

I saw a picture of a 617 that had been dry fired a bunch with no snap caps, and the cylinder looked horrible. Definitely a gun that you don't want to dry fire. I made sure to load mine up with 6 snap caps before testing the trigger.

Would your gun club at least let you put snap caps in the gun to fill the other 5 chamber holes?

Yea 3 in a rifle and 5 in a hand gun. Becoming more common. I guess it is to prevent mag dumping .

I do not think the -5 and -6 were back and forth,
but, rather they were different guns, produced at the same time.

The closest thing to that was that my range used to have a 1 shot per second rule, but they got rid of that a couple years ago after people were complaining. Half the time people buy their ammo from the range, so it would only benefit them anyway.

Volunteer to help maintaining your gun club's ranges and you'll learn real quick-like why high-capacity cylinders and magazines aren't popular there. Too many people try to see how quickly they can empty their guns with inaccurate shooting resulting in target backer frames, walls and ceilings being shot up. Holding on target with five rounds isn't nearly as difficult as with ten or more.

Ed

That's correct. The -3 and -4 where made concurrently until the -5 and -6 replaced them. The -6 is the only 617 produced today.

Once again...I am SO HAPPY I have my own Range on my property. What a ridiculous rule.

I just talked to the range officer,,, she says ten rounds, minimum,,,

It is great to have an understanding wife!!

Of course,, she gets first dibs on the bench when it is time to can tomatoes,,,