617-1 or -4
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HAWKEYE10
Member
Looking in my S&W book I can't see much difference between the two. Therefore I would choose the -4.
Reason is it has the box. I think having the original box
adds value to the gun. Don
Smithboomer
Member
I'd buy the 10-shot in a second.
Two things to consider....
You have two distinct things to take into consideration, the first is if you want a 6 shot or a 10 shot, if that drives you and you want a 10 shot, then the -4 is the answer.
Past that - if you don't care how many cartridges it holds - the other consideration is "enhancements", or engineering changes, generally (not everyone will agree), the later engineering change will have some "fixes" that the factory implemented for whatever reason to improve the gun. In the case of visual differences (again, aside from the cylinder capacity/number of flutes), the -4 engineering change has the later rear sight assembly that, to me anyway, looks more "finished", given that it is inset into the topstrap neatly. This rear sight assembly also has a larger screw that attaches it to the frame, which is a plus, the older style - smaller - screw can be problematic, they can loosen up and without a proper screw driver can be a challenge to get tightened properly.
There are probably other, non-visual, differences, but the rear sight is the most notable differenciation, and a big plus. Unfortunately I'm not a 10 shot guy, so I'd look for a -4 that is a six shooter....
Good luck on your decision.
You have two distinct things to take into consideration, the first is if you want a 6 shot or a 10 shot, if that drives you and you want a 10 shot, then the -4 is the answer.
Past that - if you don't care how many cartridges it holds - the other consideration is "enhancements", or engineering changes, generally (not everyone will agree), the later engineering change will have some "fixes" that the factory implemented for whatever reason to improve the gun. In the case of visual differences (again, aside from the cylinder capacity/number of flutes), the -4 engineering change has the later rear sight assembly that, to me anyway, looks more "finished", given that it is inset into the topstrap neatly. This rear sight assembly also has a larger screw that attaches it to the frame, which is a plus, the older style - smaller - screw can be problematic, they can loosen up and without a proper screw driver can be a challenge to get tightened properly.
There are probably other, non-visual, differences, but the rear sight is the most notable differenciation, and a big plus. Unfortunately I'm not a 10 shot guy, so I'd look for a -4 that is a six shooter....
Good luck on your decision.
Based on the information you've provided, I'd buy the 617-4. Sincerely. brucev.
Thanks to all
I appreciate all the thoughts so far. Keep them coming, pls.
Some clarifications:
-1 = 6 shot ,square butt old style cylinder release, non-mim Hammer and Trigger, Hogues, new style rear sight
-4 = 10 shot, rd butt, new sylinder release, mim H & T, Hogues, also new style rear sight w/ box
I appreciate all the thoughts so far. Keep them coming, pls.
Some clarifications:
-1 = 6 shot ,square butt old style cylinder release, non-mim Hammer and Trigger, Hogues, new style rear sight
-4 = 10 shot, rd butt, new sylinder release, mim H & T, Hogues, also new style rear sight w/ box
Last edited:
ol timer
Member
I like the action on the six shot much better than the ten shot. FWIW, ejection can be smoother also, given you are pushing 40% less spent brass, which with .22 rimfires expansion does vary. I also like the traditional six flutes on the cylinder, YMMV.
My -1 also has the new style sight leaf.
My -1 also has the new style sight leaf.
lafayne
Member
I suggest you buy both. I have 6 and 10 shot 617's in 4 and 6 inch. I like them all and shoot them all. I like the more traditional 6 shot appearance and beefy cylinder steel, but the 10 shot 4 inch with Ultradot 30 sure does shoot and has a better double action pull.
Wee Hooker
Member
Having both 6 and 10 shot 617's, I'll toss in with Ol TImer. The 6 shot DA cycle is just smoother and more representative of center fire timing/action. Important if your training with the gun, not so much if it's your only revolver and/or you won't do much DA shooting. Either would be nice ( I do preffer 4" in the 617) but the -1 would be my personal choice. That said, the 10 shot gun would likely have greater demand in teh used market should you decide to part with it.
p.s. Note that if your going to want speedloaders, the DS-10 is the only loader available for the 10 shot@ $25 each (but well worth it.) The 6 shot will allow you to buy cheapo HKS loaders or the DS 6 shot version.
Lots written here on the topic if you search.
p.s. Note that if your going to want speedloaders, the DS-10 is the only loader available for the 10 shot@ $25 each (but well worth it.) The 6 shot will allow you to buy cheapo HKS loaders or the DS 6 shot version.
Lots written here on the topic if you search.
Snapping Twig
Member
For me a 6 shooter is... well, a 6 shot pistol.
Make mine the -1.
Make mine the -1.
jt1
Member
Here is the only sensible solution. There will be no regrets over not buying one, and your only problem is which one to shoot first when you go to the range.
This is the S&W Forum, after all.
John
lafayne
Member
I have few regrets about buying any gun. I have lots of regrets about not buying when I had the opportunity. Look around - 617's are not plentiful in the market.
gearchecker
US Veteran
Good choice. 2 Model 617's at the same time are a rare find.
You were smart to take advantage of the opportunity to get them both. Post a pic of them together please.
You were smart to take advantage of the opportunity to get them both. Post a pic of them together please.
lafayne
Member
This may be the best decision you make all week.
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