Which To Buy - Model 17 or 18

[pwjp2011]

I met a guy who is cleaning out his gun collection, has both a model 17-3 and an 18-3. Told me that I could buy one or both.

Cant really do both due to $$ and permit nonsense here. I am beyond confused. This is going to for the range, targets and plinking.

I see that the 17 is a bit heavier but the 18 seems to balance better.

If you were going to buy one which one would you buy?

 

[Engine49guy]

Same price and same condition I prefer the Model 18.

 

[22hipower]

One may have a slightly "better" trigger, or one that you prefer more than the other. Six of one, half a dozen of the other though. Can't go wrong with either. You might also check the tightness of the cylinder chamber holes after firing some number of rounds. Some of these are much tighter than others and can be irritating if they're too tight and bind up after a relatively short shooting session. I have one 17-2, a beautiful gun in great condition, but gets sticky after firing just a couple cylinders. A problem that's not all that hard to solve anyway, but if there's a difference I'd take the one with the less tight cylinder chambers.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

 

[BAM-BAM]

IMO and experience.......

6" 17 for the range

4" 18 for the field [and a training aid for Centerfire carry revolvers]

 

[Ameshawki]

18 is what I bought.

 

[NYlakesider]

I have both. I find I shoot the 18 more!

 

[Engine49guy]

The 18 is slightly less prevelant compared to the 17 series so should be easier to find a Model 17 later, if you plan on carrying it around the farm on your hip a 4" is easier to holster, if you will only use it for target shooting and transport it around in a zipper case the 2" longer barrel / sight radius and flat face Patridge fs might give you an edge over the 4" with Baughman ramp blade front site.

 

[Fishinfool]

Assuming the 17 has a 6" barrel & A Patridge front sight, that would probably be my choice for a mostly range gun. If I were going to be carrying it concealed, or on my belt in the woods, then the 4" model 18. In the end, either is a good choice. What feels better in your hand?

Larry

 

[BLACKHAWKNJ]

Model 17-traditional, classic target revolver.
Model 18-understudy for the M-15/Combat Masterpiece, M-19.

 

[Baxter6551]

Like the others have said. Both work great for target shooting (I have both) but the 18 much better for plinking / field carry and training aid for larger caliber revolvers. And … as others have said … can’t go wrong with either. Try and get both if at all possible with the finances. Maybe see if you could get one now and if he would hold the other till $ and permit issues allow.

 

[Oldengineer]

I have both and they seem to have equivalent accuracy. The 18 therefore is more versatile and would be my pick. The model 18’s also appear to be a bit more desirable……and cost more.

 

[Model19man]

The Model 18 was discontinued a long time ago by S&W. The Model 17 was more recent. Lots more Model 17's around. I have a Model 17 and love it but I would pick the Model 18.

 

[Dvus]

Model 18 in a heartbeat.

 

[chief38]

I like the 4" M18 better myself.

 

[desmobob]

IMO and experience.......

6" 17 for the range

4" 18 for the field [and a training aid for Centerfire carry revolvers]

My thoughts, also. I have a K22 Combat Masterpiece (pre-Model 18)

 

[GSP Fan]

I have both as well. Can you shoot them and see which feels better for you? It's a toss up pick the one you like the best. There is no wrong decision.

 

[Nesmith]

I have both models, but if I had to choose one, it would be the Model 18. It’s a great all-around .22 revolver.

 

[pantannojack]

" I don't need permission when I go a fishin ; Never have to ask for the keys..."

Get both. They don't surface that often.

 

[Truckman]

The correct answer is always the same with such choices - "YES!"......Ben

 

[bobsguns]

I just re-read the 2nd Amendment & I didn't see anything in there about a "permit"...............