I had a 4" 617-6 which I sold due to continual problems with spent brass getting stuck in the chambers. I was so frustrated I sold it on an impulse, taking a big money hit. Turns out it may have just been the cheap ammo I was shooting. Well I still want a .22 and it seems like the older model .22s had less widespread problems with the spent brass issue.

Here's my dilemma. I saw a 6" model 17 (don't know what dash #) in a local gun store, and I'm also considering a couple of 6" 617s (all different dashes) for sale online. I want to get a six inch because of the better sight radius. However I'm thinking the model 17 might be a better balanced gun because of the partial underlug. It seems the 617s are selling for 200 to 300 dollars more than the 17s. I just love the look of a stainless Smith and don't know if I would be happy buying a blued gun. Am I being too picky?

In your experience, is the 6" model 17 better balanced than a 6" 617? Have people experienced the same brass ejection problems with the older model .22s? Please help me decide

-Dave

P.S. I love seeing pictures. Show me your 17 or 617 while your at it!