I just put a S&W model 617 on layaway. I am really looking forward to getting this gun! I have been going over everything about this gun and as soon as I had all the paper work done I was questioning my decision. My only concern is the barrel length. I got the 4" barrel but now I am thinking i should of went for the 6' barrel. I have heard a lot of people say the 6" was a bit heavy out front and had a tendency to let the barrel drop. The weight of the 6" is 44.2ozs and the 4" is 38.9ozs so there is a few ozs difference. I plan to use this gun for Steel and range use only. So my question does anyone have any experience with either 4" or the 6" S&W 617? and if so, which do you like better? What length barrel do you think is the best for steel (on any style gun)?

It's what you like best - not the aggregate opinion of the board. There are people on here that would kill for the 4" version. Two things to note: 1) What is wrong with a gun being muzzle heavy? A muzzle heavy gun generally "hangs" better and helps steady things down. Not an issue with a .22, but it also helps mitigate recoil. 2) If you intend to shoot steel, the 4" version will transition better/faster from target to target.

 

Pick what you like.

 

Adios,

 

Pizza Bob

It's a personal preference, but I prefer the look and feel of the 4".

Isn't there also a barrel length limit for some of the revolver gun games?

I too prefer the 4", especially if the gun has a full underlug. 6" barrel is a target or hunting gun to me. Other than that, the longer barreled guns feel nose heavy to me.

I have a 6" 617 because I got a smoking good deal on it used. The extra weight doesn't bother me. If I was buying new I'd get a 4" (got a slew of 4" k frame holsters).

Isn't there also a barrel length limit for some of the revolver gun games?

 

Yes but that is IDPA, which is centerfire.

I like both 4 and 6" models. Its up to you. You really can't go wrong imo.