We'll, after a day at the range I've decided to return the Ahrends Tactical grips because, although comfortable to hold, they are just too big for my hands, and a bit of a stretch to pull the trigger comfortably, especially with the hard trigger pull of the 617. I contacted Terri at "gripseller" via email explaining the situation and had a refund in my paypal account five minutes later. I then ordered the Ahrends Retro Combats in Moradillo wood. That is just about the best customer service you could ever hope to receive. No questions asked, no hassles, just good business sense. They'll get my business again if ever the need arises.
I'll post a new pic when the new grips are received and installed.