S&W Model 17-4 red front sight insert

[Humdinger]

I purchased this 1980 vintage Model 17-4 from an individual over a decade ago. It has a pinned barrel and all the factory options. It has a target stock, TT,TH, white outline rear sight, and an unusual red insert partridge front sight. I've never seen one like it before or since. It is perfectly executed with the same red plastic as seen in red ramp front sights of other S&W's. Is this a rare factory option or just a well done aftermarket addition? I like it but was curious to know if it is orginal to this revolver.



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[bamabiker]

No expert here but I've never seen one like that from the factory so I would guess a previous owner did it or had it done.

 

[paplinker]

What you have very much resembles a factory red post front sight.

The fact that the patridge sight bluing is a lighter color than the bbl gives me pause. Also the red is a bit more sunken in than I am used to seeing but the red insert part has evolved a bit. Being a -4 it may have changed again in style.

I think its likely original but your going to need a letter to know for sure. I have had a few guns with a red post.

 

[boykinlp]

What you have very much resembles a factory red post front sight.

The fact that the patridge sight bluing is a lighter color than the bbl gives me pause. Also the red is a bit more sunken in than I am used to seeing but the red insert part has evolved a bit. Being a -4 it may have changed again in style.

I think its likely original but your going to need a letter to know for sure. I have had a few guns with a red post.

Like paplinker said, this is the style that I have seen to come from the factory around the time period of your gun. I have a -3 with a red post like these. For that reason, and I definitely could be wrong, I think yours isn’t factory. JMHO.
Larry

 

[markeb]

Humdinger, I have the same style insert on my 27-2. I really didn't pay that much attention when I bought it many years ago. I don't think it's a factory modification. BTW, nice 17-4.