I've been looking for a S&W .22lr revolver and am pretty set on the 617. Problem is, I can't find one. My LGS has a few of the new Model 17-9 for around $800 and they've been there unsold for a while. Im kinda tempted to pick one up, but the fact that they haven't sold in this environment is giving me pause. Any problems with the Model 17s that Im not aware of? Thanks.

I don't have such a new Model 17. But, I do have a 17-4 in hand and a 17-6 (NIB) on layaway right now. I really like the 17...great shooters. Mine are both 6 shooters. Here is a photo of the 17-4:

Is that a 6" barrel?

I have a 17-3 , 17-6 , and a 617 ,and a couple of days ago I picked up after a 4 month wait a new 48-7 classic and am very happy with it . I paid 800.00 for the 48 , so I would say get it if you don't mind blue other than stainless . Older ones are going for similar prices including 617's from where I am from and I have not seen a new 17 around yet so I would say buy it , it will hold its value .

No, it is 8 3/8's. The 17-6 I pick up in a few weeks has a 4" barrel (non-underlug).

I have a 17-9 and it is a great shooter. I also have a new 617 4". It also is a nice gun. I like the sights better on the 17, but the grips are a little small for my large hand. Soon as I get some new grips I will use the 17 more. Get the 17.

short answer = yes
longer answer is I still want my 617 6"

I have been waiting for a 617 6" to show up at the LGS.
A new IL MIM 17 6" 6 shot turned up "like new used" and I bought it for $700, half of that was a trade in.
I consider that high end of ok price.
I like it and have shot it well.
IMO it really just needs a few thousand rounds put thru it and then it will be a sweet shootin' piece.
The trigger will smooth itself up in time and I expect the DA pull as well.
If it wasn't for the friggn 22 mess right now I would have already pumped 1k thru it

You can't go wrong, no matter what kind of S&W .22 revolver you end up buying. I'm lucky enough to have a K-22, a 17-3, and a model 48. I love them all

__________________
Why, I aughta.....