The Smith & Wesson Model 17 is a K-frame revolver that you’ll find chambered in .22 Long Rifle with a 6-inch carbon steel barrel and blued finish. Originally introduced in 1947 as the K-22 Masterpiece, it features checkered wood grips and single/double action functionality. You’ll encounter prices ranging from $600 for used models to $1,500+ for Performance Center variants. Its precision manufacturing, micro-adjustable sights, and flawless reliability make this classic wheelgun’s seven-decade production history worth exploring further.
Key Takeaways
- The Model 17 is a K-frame revolver chambered in .22 Long Rifle with a 6-inch barrel and blued carbon steel finish.
- Current market prices range from $600-900 for used models to $1,500+ for Performance Center variants.
- Features include micro-adjustable sights, checkered wood grips, and single/double action functionality with a 6-round cylinder capacity.
- Testing demonstrated flawless reliability with Federal Premium ammunition and precise cylinder timing with zero malfunctions.
- The revolver requires standard maintenance including regular cleaning, proper lubrication, and routine inspection for optimal performance.
Description
The precision engineering of the Smith & Wesson Model 17 is evident in its classic K-frame revolver design. You’ll find this .22 Long Rifle caliber Masterpiece features a 6-inch carbon steel barrel with blued finish and checkered wood grips.
The revolver’s single/double action functionality combines with its pinned Patridge front sight and micro-adjustable rear sight, delivering superior accuracy through its 6-round cylinder.
Price Range
While market prices fluctuate based on availability and condition, you’ll find new Smith & Wesson Model 17 revolvers retailing between $900-$1,200, with an MSRP of $997 for the standard Classic line model.
| Model Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Used Classic | $600-$900 |
| New Standard | $900-$1,200 |
| Performance Center | $1,500+ |
If you’re 21 years of age and ready with your credit card, expect to pay premium prices for specialty Wesson variants and collector editions.
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Model 17 gives you a 6-inch barrel length and weighs in at 2.5 pounds, making it a well-balanced .22 Long Rifle revolver. You’ll find the carbon steel construction throughout the frame, barrel, and cylinder, all finished in a classic blued treatment. The revolver’s 6-round capacity cylinder ensures you’ve got enough rounds for target practice or small game hunting.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.5 pounds |
| Barrel Length | 6 inches |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Chambering | .22 Long Rifle |
Weight
Weighing in at 2.5 pounds, Smith & Wesson’s Model 17 revolver strikes an optimal balance between stability and maneuverability. This masterpiece’s weight distribution comes from its carbon-steel frame, barrel, and slide construction, delivering a solid feel in your hand.
You’ll find the checkered service square-butt wood grips contribute to the overall weight while maintaining the revolver’s excellent handling characteristics.
Barrel Length
Built with precision engineering, the Model 17’s 6-inch barrel extends beyond typical .22 LR revolver configurations, complementing its substantial frame and weight profile.
This legendary Masterpiece 22 Long Rifle’s enhanced barrel length delivers superior ballistic performance and improved accuracy compared to standard 4-inch models. You’ll find this Classic revolver’s extended barrel creates a timeless best-in-class profile that’s made the S&W Model 17 a true piece of history.
Material Made Out Of
Masterfully crafted from robust carbon steel, the Model 17 showcases a precision-engineered frame, barrel, and slide wrapped in a classic blued finish. You’ll find checkered service square-butt wood grips that provide secure handling and traditional aesthetics.
The revolver features a Pinned Patridge front sight and micro-adjustable rear sight, both seamlessly integrated into the steel construction. At 2.5 pounds, it’s a solid, well-balanced firearm.
Chambered In
The Smith & Wesson Model 17 chambers the venerable .22 Long Rifle cartridge, making it a natural fit for target shooting and small game hunting. You’ll appreciate the revolver’s 6-round cylinder capacity, which provides ample ammunition for range sessions or field use.
The .22 Long Rifle caliber, combined with the Model 17’s 6-inch barrel, delivers consistent accuracy while keeping recoil minimal and manageable.
Capacity
Standard specifications of the Model 17 include a six-round cylinder capacity, paired with single and double-action functionality that gives shooters versatile operating options.
The 6-round capacity is accommodated by precisely machined chambers in the carbon steel cylinder, which maintains consistency with traditional K-frame revolver designs. This capacity allows for full compatibility with standard .22 LR revolver speedloaders and loading devices.
Trigger Pull
Precise engineering of the Model 17’s trigger mechanism delivers consistent, predictable performance across both firing modes. You’ll experience a light 5-6 pound pull in single-action and a smooth 10-12 pound pull in double-action.
The crisp break and minimal creep ensure optimal shooting accuracy, while the short, positive reset facilitates quick follow-up shots. For target shooting and plinking, you’ll find the trigger characteristics exceptionally well-balanced.
Safety?
Built with proven safety mechanisms, Smith & Wesson’s Model 17 incorporates multiple features to prevent accidental discharge. The single/double action system lets you carry the revolver safely with the hammer down, while the solid carbon-steel construction ensures reliable operation.
Proper handling is essential, as the revolver’s traditional design relies on its transfer bar safety and hammer block mechanisms for secure function.
Action
Operating as both a single and double-action revolver, the Model 17 gives shooters two distinct firing options.
You’ll find the classic single-action style allows for precise shots by manually cocking the hammer before each trigger pull. In double-action mode, you can squeeze the trigger for a continuous motion that both cocks and releases the hammer, enabling faster follow-up shots when needed.
Optic Ready?
The Model 17 comes from an era before optical sights became commonplace, featuring only traditional iron sights without provisions for mounting modern optics. You’ll find a pinned Patridge front sight paired with a micro-adjustable rear sight setup.
While custom options exist through specialized gunsmiths, adding an optic would require significant modifications to the original design, potentially compromising the revolver’s classic configuration.
Review
You’ll find the Model 17 Masterpiece’s blued carbon steel construction and micro-adjustable sights deliver exceptional accuracy and aesthetics, though the internal lock may deter some traditionalists.
The revolver’s reliability shines through with 500 rounds of flawless performance, featuring precise cylinder timing and zero light primer strikes or misfires. At $997 MSRP, you’re getting a premium .22 LR wheelgun that combines classic craftsmanship with modern manufacturing standards, making it particularly appealing if you appreciate traditional revolvers and target shooting.
Pros
Seasoned shooters will appreciate the Model 17’s flawless reliability, demonstrated through 500 rounds of testing without a single malfunction. You’ll find excellent performance with crisp cylinder timing and zero light primer strikes. The pinned Patridge front sight pairs perfectly with the micro-adjustable rear sight for superior accuracy.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Federal Premium 40gr LRN | Minimal fouling |
| S&W Micro-adjustable sights | Precision targeting |
| Pinned Patridge front sight | Enhanced sight picture |
Cons
Several design choices in the Model 17 may give potential buyers pause. The internal frame lock creates an aesthetic compromise, while the fiber optic front sight can affect the original design integrity.
| Limitation | Impact |
|---|---|
| Internal Lock | Visual disruption to frame |
| Lighting Performance | Limited sight visibility |
| Front Sight Design | Compromises classic look |
| Price Point | May deter casual buyers |
The $997 MSRP might seem steep if you’re not specifically seeking a premium wheelgun, and the sighting system’s performance can be challenging in low-light conditions.
Reliability
Through extensive range testing, the Model 17 proved itself as a highly dependable revolver with flawless operation across 500 rounds. You’ll find consistent performance with crisp cylinder timing and no light primer strikes or misfires.
The revolver maintains its reliability with minimal fouling when using Federal Premium Champion 40 gr LRN ammunition. Its sound construction ensures dependable function in well-lit shooting conditions.
Similar Models
Many revolvers share design elements with the Model 17, particularly within Smith & Wesson’s Performance Center lineup. You’ll find similar features in the Model 686 Competitor and Model 629 Competitor, both offering weighted barrels and 6-round capacities.
These Performance Center variants showcase customization options through their specialized designs, while maintaining the classic cylindrical chamber configuration common to all revolvers.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Beyond Smith & Wesson’s lineup, other manufacturers offer comparable .22 LR handguns with distinct features.
If you’re looking for comparable alternatives, consider the Ruger Single-Six revolver with its 6-round capacity and adjustable sights. Semi-automatic options include the Colt Woodsman, Browning Buckmark with fiber optic sights, Beretta Neos with its Picatinny rail, and the Sig Sauer Mosquito featuring ambidextrous controls.
Maintenance
Keeping your Model 17 in peak condition requires regular maintenance and careful attention to detail. After each shooting session, thoroughly clean the revolver to prevent corrosion. Pay special attention to cleaning considerations like proper lubrication of moving parts with light gun oil.
Store your Model 17 in a dry environment, and routinely inspect for signs of wear. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule ensures optimal performance and longevity.
History
Originally introduced in 1922, the Smith & Wesson Model 17 emerged as a precision-built .22 caliber target revolver known as the K-22 Masterpiece. The revolver’s collecting history spans over seven decades until its discontinuation in 1994.
During this period, S&W made notable improvements, including the Model 17-1 variant (1960-1961) that featured a distinctive 4-screw trigger guard and modified ejector rod.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Model 17 Smith and Wesson?
You’ll find the Model 17 is a classic .22 caliber revolver that showcases Smith & Wesson’s accurate craftsmanship since 1935. It’s built with a 6-inch carbon steel barrel featuring a blued finish and precise adjustable sights.
You can rely on its single/double action mechanism and 6-round capacity for exceptional performance. The checkered wood grips and exposed hammer make it a favorite among target shooters and collectors.
When Was the Model 17 Made?
Looking at the release timeline, you’ll find this iconic revolver first hit the market in 1931. Throughout its production run until the early 1980s, you’ll notice several variations, with the most significant being the Model 17-1 manufactured between 1960-1961.
You can identify this particular variant by its serial numbers ranging from K386805 to K468098. While production ended decades ago, you’ll still find it’s one of the most sought-after revolvers among collectors.
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
You’ll find that Smith & Wesson revolvers typically maintain excellent resale value, particularly their vintage models. These firearms are known for their quality construction and durability, making them highly sought after by collectors.
When properly maintained, they’ll often appreciate in value over time. The combination of superior craftsmanship, historical significance, and limited production runs of certain models makes them reliable investments in the firearms market.
What Revolver Did Dirty Harry Carry?
When released in 1971, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 saw a 300% surge in demand after “Dirty Harry.” You’ll recognize this iconic Hollywood firearm as Inspector Harry Callahan’s legendary .44 Magnum revolver.
The large-frame, double-action Model 29 wasn’t actually his duty weapon, but rather his personal choice. Smith & Wesson manufactured this powerful revolver with a blued steel finish and wooden grips, making it one of cinema’s most memorable firearms.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Model 17’s six-decade evolution from the K-22 Outdoorsman rather amusing – S&W basically spent years perfecting what was already an excellent wheelgun. While you’re paying premium prices for that iconic .22 LR configuration, you’re essentially getting the same revolver your grandfather swooned over in 1947. Modern manufacturing tolerances might be tighter, but let’s face it – you’re buying nostalgia with better machining.
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