My First 617

[tcmitchvol]

I'm new here so thanks in advance for everyone's patience and latitude. I added a nice used 6" 617 to the collection over the weekend. Got it from Cabelas for less than $500 so I'm pleased. I plan to shoot it this weekend and confirm it's solid.

I've read here and seen folks have trouble with these in the past. I'd like to start working on the trigger but before I start I want to see what the consensus is on lightening it up a bit.

I've done a few DIY trigger jobs on 686's and these have come out pretty good with new reduced power springs and some polishing here and there. Not sure if the same will work on the 617 or if I should send it to a pro. Looking for the best solution for reliability and smooth pull.

Thanks in advance for the advice.

 

[gunzo]

Welcome from another newbie here. I have a 617 with a reduced power spring kit but don't know which brand I used. I've installed Wolff, Bullseye, & Trapper in the past, all with good results.

I have had missfires in this gun but all have seem to be ammo related, cheap bulk stuff that causes problems in other guns. With quality ammo I have good results.

My 617's round count is nearing the 10,000 mark & I enjoy it now as much as the day I brought in home. My vote is to give the springs a try.

 

[AveragEd]

I have Wolfe spring kits in both my 617-0s and they go "bang" every time!

Both guns also have target hammers and triggers; the 6" came that way; I upgraded the 4" and installed a Millett rear sight.

Ed

 

[fyimo]

617's are great shooters and a blast to shoot for cheap on the ammo side of things.
617 no dash 6 inch

Model 617 no dash 4 inch

 

[TrailRated]

Fairly new too! Congrats on the 617. I have the 4" bbl and love it.

 

[AveragEd]

I had a conversation about 617s at the rifle range of one of the gun clubs I belong to this morning. The other shooter was an older gent who owns a lot of very nice guns and can best be described as "finicky" and "eccentric."

He told me owned an older six-shot, steel cylinder 617 he bought new in the early 1980s (that makes it a no-dash, I'm thinking). He also bought a new 4" with a 10-shot steel cylinder a few years ago (MIM and possibly a lock, I'm now thinking). He later decided to thin the herd and sold one of them. Here's where the pain comes in. He figured the newer gun was "better" and sold the no-dash one for about what he paid for it new - $300!

When I told him what nice no-dash 617s are bringing these days, his eyes bulged a little and he only said, "Really?"

No, he doesn't have any more 617s but he said he does have a "quantity of S&W .357s and .44s" but has no idea what models they are. Knowing this guy, I'm betting they are all 19s, 27s and 29s. Yes, I gave him my name and phone number.

Ed

 

[Rapidray]

Mine is on lay-a-way!

$549.00 as new with the box. 6 inch, 10 shot. Does have the IL. Picking it up on Friday and I sold my Colt Rail Gun. If the funds reach me by Friday, I will get the R8 also. Either way - Saturday I will be a happy camper!