S&W Model 63 vs 617?

[SpyderRyder]

Yes 2 different frame types and barrel lengths.

Out of the box imo trigger smoothness is pot luck.

I've read issues with the 617. Anyone have issues with this revolver? Or has S&W resolved their problems with this. Model?

Any one shot both? Pros ? Cons?

Thanks!

 

[Rusty Shakleford]

pre-lock 617 if it has to be stainless. Had a couple of 34s and they are ok if you have small hands but no matter the grip the 34 crammed my finger to the trigger guard.

 

[Whetstone]

I know nothing about the 63, but I love my 617-6 that I have. It is full size, it feels and looks exactly like my 686, except the recoil.

 

[Scraper]

I have no experience with a 63, but my 617 has been flawless. In hindsight, I wish I had gone with the 4". The 6" is quite front heavy (lots of steel left up there with such a small bore), but I can smack my 8" plate at 50 yards with boring accuracy. I would like to swap out the front sight for fiber optic. Otherwise, she's good to go.

 

[SpyderRyder]

I have no experience with a 63, but my 617 has been flawless. In hindsight, I wish I had gone with the 4". The 6" is quite front heavy (lots of steel left up there with such a small bore), but I can smack my 8" plate at 50 yards with boring accuracy. I would like to swap out the front sight for fiber optic. Otherwise, she's good to go.

View attachment 4557686

That's a lot of gun right there. Im getting a fiber optic sight on a 686 4" - hoping to get it back next week. Which is why I'll probably get the 617 4" thanks for the feedback.

 

[RSB]

Yes 2 different frame types and barrel lengths.

Out of the box imo trigger smoothness is pot luck.

I've read issues with the 617. Anyone have issues with this revolver? Or has S&W resolved their problems with this. Model?

Any one shot both? Pros ? Cons?

Thanks!

I bought a 10 shot 617 here on the ODT, 5 shots and the cylinder would lock. It also had a big nick in the crown. Sent it to smith them knowing I wasn't the original owner. They fixed the problem and replaced the barrel. NO CHARGE!!!

On another note, I bought a Taurus Raging Bull in 41 mag and the box was missing the safety Key. I wanted the package to be complete, and you would have thought I was trying to steal gold from them. After a lengthy and testy discussion they relented and sent one key.

 

[Whetstone]

On another note, I bought a Taurus Raging Bull in 41 mag and the box was missing the safety Key. I wanted the package to be complete, and you would have thought I was trying to steal gold from them. After a lengthy and testy discussion they relented and sent one key.

they have some nasty customer service. I had once a brand new pt740 slim and first time at the range I had the front sight fly away. Called them, reluctantly they said that will send me a replacement, never did.

 

[SpyderRyder]

I bought a 10 shot 617 here on the ODT, 5 shots and the cylinder would lock. It also had a big nick in the crown. Sent it to smith them knowing I wasn't the original owner. They fixed the problem and replaced the barrel. NO CHARGE!!!

On another note, I bought a Taurus Raging Bull in 41 mag and the box was missing the safety Key. I wanted the package to be complete, and you would have thought I was trying to steal gold from them. After a lengthy and testy discussion they relented and sent one key.

I heard S&W makes good on servicing anything that needs fixed.

And seems to be a known problem with the 617. Although users can also be the culprit by dry firing these revolvers without snap caps.

Im looking forward to shooting one.

 

[Rusty Shakleford]

Sorry for not mentioning earlier the 34 I spoke about is a j frame .22 which would feel like the 63 as far as hand size. I have a 6” 617 it shoots very well but I have to give the edge to the older 17-4 I have it’s only 6 shot but I feel it’s a little more accurate than my 617 probably just preference though.

 

[SpyderRyder]

Sorry for not mentioning earlier the 34 I spoke about is a j frame .22 which would feel like the 63 as far as hand size. I have a 6” 617 it shoots very well but I have to give the edge to the older 17-4 I have it’s only 6 shot but I feel it’s a little more accurate than my 617 probably just preference though.

Nice. Always the older models for sure! I entertained the model 63 since I carry a 642 J frame. But just found me a new 617 4" today which will give me trigger time on the same style as the 686 4" that I shoot.