Price Check - Model 17-3 with 5 Inch Barrel

[gearsource]

While browsing a local gunshop I came across a nice, 95% condition S&W Model 17-3 with a 5" (five inch) barrel.

Comes complete with box and papers.

I can't find a five inch anywhere to compare prices, even Gunbroker completed auctions.

Also, when did the Model 17-3 first come out? I didn't have the time to check particulars, but the grips looked pre-1980.

What would values be on newer/older variants?

Thanks.

 

[murphydog]

Never say never, but factory 5" K-22s/model 17s are very rare. If it is 5" from the muzzle to cylinder face it may have been shortened, or needs a factory letter as it could have been a special order. Are you able to post photos?

 

[gearsource]

Never say never, but factory 5" K-22s/model 17s are very rare. If it is 5" from the muzzle to cylinder face it may have been shortened, or needs a factory letter as it could have been a special order. Are you able to post photos?

I will check with the Shop manager and see if a couple of photos can be arranged, but it may take a little while.

I just called the shop, and got a little more information. The end label on the S&W box the gun came in (unsure as to whether it is the box it came from the factory in) says 6 inch. It also has paperwork dating the gun to 1955. When I was there, the shop manager measured the barrel from the muzzle to the frame, not the cylinder face and came up with 5 inches. Was this method incorrect? (I am very much a newby to revolvers in general).

Thanks for the help and the interest.

 

[Nframe_is_no1]

Yes, that method was incorrect. If he had gone to the cylinder face, as you said, which is the correct method, he would have gotten 6 inches.

 

[civil1977]

The 17-3 was made from 1967-1977 so 1955 isn't correct.