.22 equivalent of 4" 686?

[BTF/PTM]

Eventually I'll have a 4" 686 in my collection. Is there another S&W revolver in .22LR that's about the same weight and feel that could be had as a practice gun to save money on ammo?

[walter]

617

[lunde]

Concur...

[lunde]

Here's my six-shot 4-inch S&W 617 wearing Nill grips:

[lunde]

The only thing better than a 617 is a K-22 Masterpiece:

[tbui]

S&W 617 4" 10-shot

[tbui]

Nice! that will be my next gun.

The only thing better than a 617 is a K-22 Masterpiece:

[nikki#2]

Match made in Heaven.....er... Springfield: 4" 617-6, 10-shot, Ahrends grips.

[lunde]

When looking for a S&W K-22 Masterpiece, keep in mind that the entire country can be your shopping ground, because many are classified as C&R (Curio & Relic) because they were made more than 50 years ago. (C&R handguns are exempt from being on the certified roster.) Mine, shown above, was made in 1951. If you can get the serial number, the year of manufacturer is ather easy to determine. And, with each that goes by, more and more become classified as C&R. Lastly, if you have a C&R FFL and COE, although you still need to bring C&R handguns into California via a dealer (FFL holder), unless you hand-carry it in by vehicle or plane, you are exempt from the ten-day waiting period.

[nikki#2]

Agreed... For blued steel, the Model 17 6" K22 is a beautiful classic that should absolutely be considered! The equivalent in a 4" barrel would be the Model 18??? I forget... and be aware that the Model 18 comes with slightly different sights than the Model 17. The Model 17 has a Partridge front sight, whereas I believe the Model 18 Red Ramp front sight, which would match your 686 (someone correct me here!).

However, if your goal is to match your 4" 686 as close as possible, then I suggest the Stainless Steel 4" 617 is the way to go. Notice that unlike the K22 or Model 18, the 617 has a full underlug barrel, like the 686. That full underlug barrel significantly changes the balance of the gun. Also, with the exception of the early no-dash models, both the 617 and 686 have Round Butts, which will allow you to match the grips on both. 2 important points there; Same balance and same grips = Goodness!

Good Luck!