Thoughts on a S&W M617

[contender]

I've been quietly watching out for a S&W M17 off & on for several years. No luck in finding one in the right price range or condition.
Well, I found a 617 10 shot and figured "What the heck!" It'll be here soon.

So, what kind of info or experiences can anybody here offer about the 617 10 shot? Especially if they also have experience with a M17.

[pacecars]

Is it a steel cylinder or aluminum

[paul105]

Here are some targets I shot with my 4" 617. The first two were at 25 yds with a 2x leupold. The second two were at 100 yds with a 4x leup. There was a bit of wind.
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First target was with the 617 even though the target says 317 (gezeritis) both with 2x leup.
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20 shots w/4x leup at 100 yards shot fairly rapidly
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10 shots at 100 yds w/4x leup
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I have a couple of M17s which I actually prefer over the 617. I've never put them on paper except at 25 yds to sight in. They always seem to hit what they are pointed at.
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the 617
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the 17s
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Paul

[leftysixgun]

Mine (4” model) leaded really bad when I first got it. I scrubbed it out, switched ammo brand and its been fine since. I did have to installed a slightly taller front sight. Fun shooter, 10rd cylinder is nice

[ldmay375]

I have a couple of 4" 617's. One prior to safety lock bs, and one with it. My wife also has a 4" with the safety lock bs.
We have only plinked with them. I do need to group them and attempt to find what ammo they like best.
I will say, she impressed me with an 8" target at 100 yards free hand and a cylinder full. I probably should have her group them.
We have a lot of fun shooting them.

[AxeHandle]

My 17/617 experience tells me be careful with modifications to lighten the trigger. Ended up with only a trigger rebound spring change and an Apex hammer. Tried the hammer spring and bad things happened.

[Thunderjet]

I own a 617 with a 6 inch barrel. It is a very early model with the aluminum cylinder. I see no point in sending it back to S&W to have a steel cylinder installed for free.
If I miss with this revolver it is my fault.

[Thunderjet]

I own a 617 with a 6 inch barrel. It is a very early model with the aluminum cylinder. I see no point in sending it back to S&W to have a steel cylinder installed for free.
If I miss with this revolver it is my fault.

[contender]

I haven't gotten the gun yet. It's in the process of being shipped to me. So, I don't know if it has the aluminum or steel cylinder or not, (I think it's the steel one.) Of course I'll try out the gun prior to any "work" I may deem necessary. And I'll try out different ammo for sure.
Apparently y'all are enjoying them.
And Axe,, I'll leave any serious internal work for a pro. I'm not very good inside a S&W.