Smith & Wesson Model 617 .22 LR Revolver

The Smith & Wesson Model 617 .22 LR revolver stands as a testament to classic design melded with modern manufacturing, offering an unparalleled shooting experience for a diverse range of enthusiasts. Engineered on the legendary K-Frame, a platform renowned for its balanced ergonomics and robust construction since 1899, the Model 617 adapts this proven heritage for the highly versatile and economical .22 Long Rifle cartridge. This unique combination makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to refine their shooting fundamentals, engage in competitive target practice, or simply enjoy countless hours of recreational plinking without breaking the bank.

Why the Smith & Wesson Model 617 is an Essential Firearm for Every Shooter

Are you searching for the best revolver to teach new shooters? Do you need a cost-effective way to practice your marksmanship skills without the recoil and expense of larger calibers? Or perhaps you're an experienced shooter looking for a precision rimfire companion for competitive events? The Model 617 directly addresses these common needs, making it a highly recommended firearm for a multitude of applications.

• For the Aspiring Shooter: The Model 617, chambered in .22 LR, is arguably the finest starting point for anyone new to firearms. Its minimal recoil and manageable report allow beginners to focus entirely on the core principles of shooting – proper grip, sight alignment, and trigger control – without developing a flinch. This foundational training builds confidence and skill, preparing them for larger calibers down the line. It's often asked, "What's the best first handgun?" For many, especially those interested in revolvers, the 617 is a top contender.
• For Advanced Skill Development: Even seasoned shooters can vastly benefit from the Model 617. Practicing with .22 LR allows for extended range sessions, enabling high-volume repetition critical for muscle memory and skill refinement. Whether it’s honing your double-action trigger pull, practicing rapid sight acquisition, or perfecting your slow-fire precision, the economic nature of the .22 LR round means you can afford to put thousands of rounds downrange. This makes it an invaluable tool for maintaining proficiency and even overcoming habits like anticipating recoil from more powerful handguns.
• For Competitive and Recreational Shooting: The Model 617 shines in various competitive disciplines, from bullseye shooting to steel challenges. Its 6-inch barrel provides an extended sight radius and inherent accuracy, while the adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing to fine-tune your groups. For those simply looking for a fun day at the range, the 10-round capacity and smooth action ensure an enjoyable and engaging experience, whether you're plinking cans or punching paper. "What's a good revolver for plinking?" The 617 is often cited as the definitive answer due to its reliability and low cost of operation.

A Deep Dive into the Smith & Wesson Model 617's Enduring Design

At the heart of the Model 617's appeal is its foundation on the iconic K-Frame. Introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1899, the K-Frame revolutionized handgun design, offering a perfect balance of size, weight, and strength. Initially designed for the .38 Special, its inherent versatility allowed Smith & Wesson to adapt it for the .22 LR cartridge, creating a training analog that feels remarkably similar to its centerfire counterparts. This means that a shooter practicing with a Model 617 gains valuable muscle memory and familiarity with the K-Frame's renowned ergonomics, which seamlessly translates to larger revolvers like the Model 10 or Model 19.

Key Features That Set the Model 617 Apart:

• Caliber: .22 LR: The choice of .22 Long Rifle is a primary advantage. It’s the most widely produced and affordable ammunition in the world, making high-volume training accessible. Its low recoil makes it comfortable for shooters of all experience levels and ideal for extended practice sessions without fatigue.
• Capacity: 10 Rounds: A generous 10-round capacity in the cylinder minimizes reloads, allowing for more continuous shooting and practice of longer strings of fire, beneficial for both competition and training scenarios.
• Barrel Length: 6 inches: The 6-inch barrel is a sweet spot for accuracy. It provides an excellent sight radius for precise aiming, which is crucial for target shooting and developing a keen eye for marksmanship. The added weight at the muzzle also helps to stabilize the revolver during the shot.
• Sights: Partridge Front, Adjustable Rear: This sight configuration is a hallmark of target-oriented firearms. The Partridge front sight, with its square post, offers a crisp sight picture against a variety of backgrounds. The micro-adjustable rear sight allows shooters to dial in their elevation and windage settings with precision, ensuring that the point of impact matches the point of aim, whether you're shooting at 10 yards or 25 yards. This level of adjustability is vital for competitive shooters demanding accuracy.
• Grip: Synthetic: The synthetic grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, essential for maintaining control and consistency during firing. It’s designed to absorb some recoil (though minimal in .22 LR) and offer a non-slip surface, even in varying weather conditions.
• Action: Single/Double Action (SA/DA): The SA/DA action provides versatility. In double-action mode, a long, deliberate pull of the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it, which is excellent for practicing controlled shots and developing strong finger discipline. In single-action mode, the hammer is manually cocked, resulting in a very light, crisp trigger pull ideal for precision shooting and achieving the tightest possible groups.
• Frame Size: Medium - Exposed Hammer: The K-Frame is considered a medium-sized frame, offering a balanced feel that is neither too bulky nor too small for most hands. The exposed hammer allows for easy manipulation of the action, whether cocking for single-action shots or decocking for safe handling.
• Finish: Satin Stainless: The satin stainless finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly durable and resistant to corrosion. This makes the Model 617 an excellent choice for use in various environments and ensures its longevity with proper care. It’s easier to maintain than blued finishes and holds up well to frequent handling and range use.
• Overall Length: 11.13 inches: This length provides a stable platform for shooting, contributing to the revolver's accuracy and balanced feel.
• Material: Stainless Steel Frame/Cylinder: The robust stainless steel construction of both the frame and cylinder guarantees exceptional durability and strength. This material choice ensures the revolver can withstand countless rounds and years of use, making it a reliable investment for any shooter.
• Weight Empty: 44.2 Ounces: At 44.2 ounces (approximately 2.76 pounds) empty, the Model 617 has a substantial feel in the hand, which helps mitigate even the minimal recoil of the .22 LR and contributes to its steady aim. This weight also gives it a "big gun" feel, which is excellent for training purposes where the user might eventually transition to larger, heavier revolvers.
• Purpose: Competitive, Recreational: These categories perfectly encapsulate the Model 617's primary strengths. It's a top-tier choice for competitive events requiring precision and high round counts, and an undeniably enjoyable firearm for casual plinking sessions, offering hours of affordable fun.

The Smith & Wesson Legacy and Where to Find Your Model 617

Smith & Wesson has been a pillar of American firearms manufacturing for generations, synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability. Their revolvers, particularly those built on the K-Frame, have earned a legendary reputation for their craftsmanship and performance, serving countless law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and civilians worldwide. The Model 617 continues this proud tradition, offering the same meticulous attention to detail and robust construction that users have come to expect from a Smith & Wesson product. When you choose a Model 617, you are not just acquiring a firearm; you are investing in a piece of firearms history, designed for enduring performance.

For those looking to acquire this exceptional training and recreational firearm, the Smith & Wesson Model 617, identified by SKU 160578 and UPC 022188605785, is readily available. You can purchase your very own Smith & Wesson Model 617 revolver, and explore a wide array of firearms and accessories, conveniently at DEGuns. Their comprehensive selection and commitment to customer service make DEGuns a highly recommended source for your firearm needs. Visit deguns.com to discover why the Smith & Wesson Model 617 continues to be a favorite among firearm enthusiasts seeking an outstanding .22 LR revolver.

Smith & Wesson Model 617 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	617
Caliber	.22 LR
Capacity	10 Rounds
Barrel Length	6"
Front Sight	Partridge
Rear Sight	Adjustable
Grip	Synthetic
Action	Single/Double Action
Frame Size	Medium - Exposed Hammer
Finish	Satin Stainless
Overall Length	11.13"
Material	Stainless Steel Frame/Cylinder
Weight Empty	44.2 Ounces
Purpose	Competitive, Recreational
UPC	022188605785
SKU	160578