I'm interested in a 617 .22 and I'm tossed up on the 4 or 6 inch barrel. So you think there would be much difference in accuracy when shooting at 25 and 35 yards? I plan on taking it with me every time I go to the range. My current .22 (which will finally get to stay home) sees 200 to 300 rounds each session and I expect to do the same with the 617. Based on that info, what would be the better choice? Thanx

I have both.For range use, I would give the nod to the six incher.Both are accurate-the longer sight line of the six incher makes it a little easier for target use.

Mount a scope or reflex on either version and I'll bet the difference in accuracy will be minimal and probably dependent on the specifics of the gun. However, without the aid of optics the 6 incher will have it in spades over the 4 incher due to the increase in sight radius.

BTW, I can no longer focus on handgun sights in the lighting typical at an indoor range so I've become hooked on optics. I have a cheap 70 dollar Sightmark from GM on my 617 and from a benchrest without sandbags have been able to creep up on a 4 inch group at 50 yards. Tomorrow I plan on trying it on sandbags just to see what it can do when held perfectly steady. Without sandbags but with a good support, in my hands no squirrel is safe within 25 yards, for 50 yards I'll probably have to lay off on caffiene.

I also have both, extremely accurate and as the guys have already said here. Difference is minimal, the 6" a tad better @ 50 yards, just get one of each, you will end up doing that anyway!!!!

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Craig

To me, the 4" balances a little better than the 6", and it definately carries better if you plan on taking it to the woods, etc.

Based on your requirements, assuming you plan to use iron sights (no optics), go with the 6" barrel.
The longer sight radius should result in better accuracy at 25 & 35 yards.

Definitely handle both the 6" and 4" prior to purchase, as the 6" is one stout hunk of metal, which you may
find excessively muzzle-heavy due to the full-length underlug. I do not find it so... In fact, when target shooting offhand,
I prefer a muzzle-heavy gun because I find can hold it steady better. Try the original sights, but know there are aftermarket
sights that you (may) prefer. I like a gold bead front on a target gun, and SDM makes a nice one for the 617.

IMO, the 6" may shoot a little better but for balance and holster carry, the 4" is hard to beat.

I agree for a range gun the 6 inch is very hard to beat but the 4 inch reallt sweet also if you plan on carrying it.

I would go with 6 for sure for target shooting that's what I have. It would be better to carry a 4in but if it would be like my 6in a prelock with combat grips I would hate to see them carried at all that's why I have a Ruger MKII cause its alot cheaper and easier to replace

Thanks all for the great comments. I keep leaning toward the 6" but I think most of you have the right idea, get both! I have several 686's and really like the frame size and feel, I can't wait to get a 617. I'll continue my quest and when the drought is over I'll hope to own the 4 and 6 inch. You'll know when I get one, I'll have the "this guy must be excited" post.

For pure fun and excellent range results...I would opt for the 6 or 8 inch versions. I have a 647 in 17hmr with an 8" barrel and love the sight radius and excellent results it gives me in the field against squirrelly thingys.

The posts here are well thought out and the conclusions are valid (not that they need MY validation).

I have a 6" 617 with a Red Dot sight and it is an excellent combination.

The Simmons 30 mm Red Dot is available from "Overstock.com" with four reticules for under $50.00. I have a half dozen of them on various calibers with excellent results.

With a Red Dot I find little difference between a 4" or a 6" revolver (as others have already said).

Dale53

I just bought a 6" to match my 6" 686. No regrets and I also have an Ultra Dot on it cause of my old eyes.

I like my 6" 617 for Bullseye work out to 50 yards. It's a bit heavy, especially with the UltraDot I mounted on top (and doubly-so because Bullseye is shot one-handed, standing, unsupported), and sometimes I wish I had a 4" version (or maybe one of the -2s with the 10-shot alloy cylinder), but it works for me.