The whole thing is relative, I have always had a basic rule of buying the best gun I could afford. Just out of school with a batchelors degree I paid the outragious sum of 118.50 for a model 28, I still have it. I paid 203.50 for my model 29 (1970 era dollars). My pre-17 K-22 was purchased for a little over 300 from the original owner in 1990s. No one was screwed and today I have some great toys. Buy what you really want and just don't worry about it.

I couldn't agree more. If it is what you want and you think the price is OK then go for it.

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May God Bless The USA

Here's what has surprised me.

Bud's Gunshop sells the 617 Plus 4-inch or 6-inch for $670, delivered. (No relationship with Bud's but they are a good benchmark.)

The average price trend in my 617P 4-inch track is almost as much as Bud's price for a new one. Here's the track:

Smith & Wesson 617 Plus Revolver in .22, Long Rifle 4-in Bbl. Bluebook of Gun Values (31st Edition) indicates between $326 in 95% condition and $631 in 100% condition for this gun. I have 33 recorded prices for this model gun from $350 to $795 over a period of 6 Yrs 8 Mos ending April 29, 2010. The average price as of that date was $499. No refurbs, no refinishes, regular sights. All represented as 95% or better. No distinction for engineering revision, if any, no special editions, no distinctions for box, papers, tools. Current or last MSRP is $940.

Here's how the data charts out. Keep in mind the trend is for the average price. Better examples would command higher prices. So as of April 2010, the average price trend is at about $620.



Here's the chart for the 6-in 617P.



In my opinion, if you can find a 95% or better used 617P for around $600, you're doing OK. New ones under $700 would be a reasonable price, too.

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Bob

I completely disagree.

I can afford high end guns. But why bother if there is a cheaper alternative that meets your needs. I don't need to spend $800 on a s$w 41 when I can get a Buckmark or Ruger or a 22a that shoots almost as well.

I bought a Springer Loaded 1911 but could afford an Ed Brown. Sure, by all accounts the Brown is a better gun. But the Loaded meets my modest needs just fine.

There are certainly times when one can go all out and splurge. I did for the 617. But I can do a *lot* of good things with the thousands I save annually by making good decisions with my money.

Buy the best gun you can afford is a poor approach for most gun uses. I'll cut some slack ona carry gun, but even then a Baer is probably as reliable as a Wilson.

Gr7070,

the world does not revolve around you! If you cut some slack on carry guns that indicates to me, that you are more into carrying than the shooting sports, something you had described as your *modest* needs.
Well, I have competed successfully in ISSF and action shooting and am a discriminating shooter.

Firearms are my hobby and the money is spent for my enjoyment, I grew up in the old world and was early on exposed to quality, had Montblanc fountain pens in high school, Dunhill pipes in college. Why should I deny myself a little fun and joy?

The money spent on guns is largely retrievable, and the higher end the guns are, the more a little difference will cost you.

This K-22 was only $250 plus tax but that was equal to almost 50 oz. of silver when I bought it.

The last couple of posts are really just different strokes for different folks. Some people just love to shoot, and if they can have a good gun for a good price, then that meets their needs. Other people really want to have the best available quality/collectible gun, and they are willing to spend the money to get that type of gun. I'd say that overall, the majority of people are looking for the best value for their dollar, and are not willing/able to spend on high dollar guns. Because this forum has true gun enthusiasts/collectors for members, I would think that many more people on this forum would be open to spending $$ on a high dollar gun...

To me, I'd much rather buy one really nice gun, than have two pretty nice guns, but that's just me... I was not as picky early on in this hobby, but really am now. To me, there is no comparison between a S&W Model 41, and a Ruger MK series, and I've got a couple of each of these guns... But again, that's just me. That's not to say that the Rugers don't shoot well, because they do (despite needing some trigger attention...), and are accurate. But, overall, the 41 is just a beautifully made piece.

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NRA Life Member

I'm fully aware of this, and in no way did I say or even imply such. I just shared my opinion like you and others.
???

Actually, it's completely opposite. I do not own a single gun for self defense. All stay locked up tight unless I'm plinking or competing in games.

If you have more money than you might ever need knock yourself out. Spend whatever you wish on what you wish.

As *you* said it's only a little enjoyment you'd be losing out on. The difference in enjoyment between a CZ and an Anschutz isn't that great, but the difference in money is. Especially if one looks at the Savage.

I also specifically recognized it is perfectly fine to splurge now and again, so long as you have the means.

That probably sounds more harsh than intended. It's a poor approach if it's applied without judicious reason. Which I do see too often on gun (and finance) boards.

The world may continue to revolve upon its axis.

Hey,

I did not mean to step on your toes but to me the difference in between an Anschuetz and a CZ is gigantic.

I very well realize that many people have different priorities. Mine are very different from yours and I do not mind buying high end guns, not for collecting but because I am competitive.





But his one had only one purpose, shooting high rings...

No problem!

As you might guess I'd probably opt for the Savage MKII, but I'd splurge for the BV model.

Of course I can't really appreciate an Anschutz anyway. I compete in the speed games (IDPA, USPSA-lite, Steel Challenge) and am just not patient enough (while shooting) for bench rest. Paitence waiting for a good deal I have.

;-)

I did the action games, too, for quite a while but as I am getting older - and having lived through two civil wars in the **** world - I am enjoying somewhat less dynamic competitions but am still far from a static benchrester.

I had noticed that after a dozen years of speed shooting my accuracy (something I had always been proud of) declined. I blamed my ageing eyes until I found that only I was to be blamed.

I got sloppy. I have to do my part too and not compromise when my skill is involved.

I visited Mackey's, between Jamesville and Plymouth, NC, this afternoon. Mackey's is known as one of the largest shops in the US. Their posted prices include sales tax. They had two 617, 4" barrel models at $857. Each.

$670 plus 7.75% sales tax, totals $721.93. Comparing your price to Mackeys, I say you've got a real deal.

With s/t Wednesday - I spent over $668 on my new 3" 63. I think the little 8-shot .22 was worth it... which makes my super 4" x10 617 worth even more. You'll forget the price paid after you shoot it a bit. I did - on both that 617 and the recent 63.

Stainz

Nowadays S&W listed the 10-rounds stainless steel 317 (both 4" and 6") as $940 in its website.

A few days ago I saw a beautiful new 10-rounds 4" 317 at my local gun store. I couldn't help but purchased it.

The 317 price might seem high for a .22LR revolver, yet the 317 is quality-made. Through all these years I have seen the 317 listed price went up and up, and I regret I didn't already purchased it years ago at much lower price than I paid nowadays. However, I am afraid that its price will only go even higher in the future, so I bit the bullet getting mine.

Regards,

I think you'll find the SS 10-shooter is a K-frame 617; the current 317's are 8-shot J-frames in Al. The 63 I mentioned is a SS version of the Al 3" 317K, for example. Congratulations on your purchase - my deepest regret is that I waited so long - the .22's are fun!

Stainz

Nice find, texagun.

While the price of .22LR has nearly doubled also, it's still under $20 per brick and that drives a lot of interest in any kind of .22s from plinking all the way to Rimfire Div. in Steel Challenge. And, Hell yes, they're fun!

I've long been jonesing a buddy's 6-shot 617 but have yet to find one at what I'd consider a reasonable deal (<$500). Had to settle for a M518 a couple of weeks ago. Yes, it's a Rossi clone of a 'Smith , but it's got a very good trigger, nice balance without the full underlug, a red-ramp front sight, no MIM, and it only cost me $225 . Before I get flamed, I acknowledge that I'm still on the hunt for a superior 617 or a new lock-less 43C, to compliment my growing collection of 'Smith wheelguns.

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GDubya
جنوب كافر فخور

I really like my 617. Since it is not a self-defense gun the internal lock does not bother me at all. I returned a 3" Kimber that was always giving my FTE and FTF despite several trips back to Kimber and couldn't decide what to get in its place. When I thought about the cost of ammo I decided on the 10 round 617. This is a very accurate, very comfortable handgun that I find I use more than my Browning Buckmark 22 at the range. And there is just something about a quality revolver (and I consider this very high quality, as good as my older S&W's) that a semi-auto just can't match. Something about the way a K-frame S&W fits in my hand that is really special.

Yes.

10 charge holes is at least 4 more than I ever feel like cleaning, though .

I purchased a freedom arms 22lr 252 for $1300 used. it is the biggest 5 shot 22lr you will ever see. It is also the most accurate revolver you will ever find. Love the smiths and I owen more of them than anything else but when I comes to accuracy they cannot touch a freedom arms.
Here it is shown next to my 610 no dash 6.5 inch barrel.

I paid $550 OTD for a Model 18 and I feel it is the best purchase I have made.

In fact of my top 5 guns... the .22 represents 3 of the bunch.

All this praise of the 617 has me interested, and jealous. I stopped by a local pawn shop last week and guess what? They had a 617-2 10 shot 6" in the case. It was in poor shape, some rust on the hammer, trigger, and the frame. The alum. cylinder was beat up.I got it for $275 OTD. I went straight to FEDEX and shipped it to S&W. I requested a stainless cylinder, replacement of any rusted internals, new sights, stocks etc. I will be into this revolver for about $700 with shipping and all. But it's not my fault. You guys made me do it!!! I was in such a hurry to get it shipped, I forgot to take a "before" pic. I will post pics when I get it back.

later

Back in the 1980's I bought and sold several S&W .22's both Model 17s and the 4" Model 18. I don't remember the exact prices but around $200-300. I always ended up trading them off for something else, assuming they would always be available. Later after 2000 when I wanted one it was always either the new 617 or occasional old model 17. I started trying to find another Model 18 with the 4" bbl and finally found one at a gun show last fall for $500 in like new condition. I was able to do some trading, giving up a Sig 232 and $100. I'll be holding onto this one since it was at the top of my "bucket list." I can shoot it in my garage using my bullet trap. I shoot CB caps, shorts and long rifle cartridges through it. (a good cleaning after each session). It goes with me often when I'm out wandering around and it has accounted for several crows that decided to land too near old country back roads. It also has taken down a several squirrels and a couple of rabbits. It is the epitome of versitility. I know of no other handgun I rely on as much as my .22 revolver

You can wait around and hope to run onto a Model 617 for less, but it might never happen. I saw one in November for $500 (slightly used) at a gunshop. I didn't even pick it up as I just didn't want to be tempted.

So, my suggestion is that you just buy one and get the pain over with. A year or so from now you won't think about the price. The only revolvers that compare favorably are Colts. I guess the Diamondback or Officers Model Match would be my preferred choice there but they cost more. The Trooper Mark III's run about the same as the Model 17's. Good revolvers.

Wow! What a response. I got the 617 4" and love it. My 1st revolver and I'm happy. thanks to all

I bought this post-war K22 Target Masterpiece (circa 1946) a while back for ~$700 or so. Grips number to the gun. It's one of my favorite revolvers, and I'm looking forward to shooting it with the son my wife and I are expecting.

--Neill

Yeah,,,,,What he said ,

I have a 17 and an 18 and they will outlive myself and my kids . Great shooters also .
Tom C
I guess this would be .04 cents now!

I had this for a while. I think I sold it to another forum member. It's a transitional dash 2 (stainless cylinder) and a very accurate shooter.



I kept the 617-6 Plus 4-inch barrel I have because I liked the way the shorter model handled better.

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Bob

Got to love them S&W rimfires!!!!

18-3 ( mismarked as a 17-3)


K22 (1950's)


48-3

Here is my 17-6. It is my favorite range gun. Buying a 617 no dash from two moon now. I have a feeling the 617 will become my primary range 22 as it is stainless and easier to maintain. I am thinking about sending it back to s&w to have a 10 shot cylinder added. Wonder if they could add a 10 shot cylinder to my 17-6

i reload....50 rounds of 38special is still about four bucks here

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SWCA#2208
KK4EMO

I have started with what I could afford and had a good time. I enjoy shooting so much, that I wanted to improve upon my skills. As that happened, my tastes evolved. My .02 cents is to buy a nice early model 17 k-22 if it is a revolver you want. If you would like an automatic, get a model 41 and be done with it. Life is too short to deprive yourself of doing the best you can in your hobby. If you want to get into things cheap, then expect cheap results. I enjoyed my journey of trading up, but wish I would have just saved for the best and been enjoying them for the past thirty years. There are many guns that shoot good. I assume if you wanted a Ruger, you would have it and not put up this post. I love my 1956 6" Colt Woodsman. It is my go-to .22 for the field. My money is looking for a k-22 with a single line made in the US and a speed hammer in a 6". You only live once. Don't worry about impressing the populous with curbside appeal of your stuff. Get a great gun that will go up in value and the enjoyment factor will continue for many years. Or, save it in your bank or retirement and let a politician or elitist millionaire end up with it. Good luck in your choice.........Sprefix

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Go big or stay home

What has teh caliber got to do with anything? You think it costs any less to make than any other K frame revolver? Why would it be cheaper? Less material? Less machining? Less labor?

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Dave

What has the caliber got to do with anything? Does it costs any less to make than any other K frame revolver? Why would it be cheaper? Less material? Less machining? Less labor?

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Dave

only you can answer that...to me...yes....the 617 is a VERY fine revolver and will easily outlast you,your kids,grandkids

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SWCA#2208
KK4EMO

I'm glad you bought the 617. I've been looking at them as well. I did buy an 18-3 some months ago. Paid a little over $700 otd. I went to the range Fri, Sat, Sun and Monday. Shot at least 1,200 through it, plus a bunch of center fire guns, .38 Special, .45 Colt and .45ACP.

I've been bidding on some 617 and 17s but they all go for $5 over my highest bid. My model 18 has been very accurate. Shooting clay birds on the hillside at 35-40 yards, then busting up the pieces. Not every shot, but often enough. My buddy and I shoot at the same birds to make a little game out of it. It really irritates him when I shoot the small pieces.

I have a couple older Model 17s and a pair of 17-6s but this little 617 always seems to follow me to the range !

Jerry

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.38/44 Outdoorsman Accumulator

My trio of recent S&W .22's - top down, a 5" 63, 4" 617, and 3" 63:



That picture was taken the day after the 3" 63 finally arrived. Within days, it was sporting the '60 Pro' grips I had on order:



That's my latest - a 60 Pro - sporting '60 Pro' grips - how odd! I actually have another set on order for my 5" 63 - on backorder, actually - the $42.97 + s/t + s/h for them from S&W is a bargain others have found now, too.

Yeah, $670 would be a good price for any of the three theses days.

Stainz

GLL put a set of diamonds on his 617!?! I've never seen that...
and it's got me thinking...

I might put a dark set on one of these for a photo!


GF

What kind of grips are these???? I have them on my K-22

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