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The Rimfire Report: The Ultimate Kit Gun - Scoped S&W 617
The Rimfire Report: The Ultimate Kit Gun - Scoped S&W 617
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍United States
A few weeks ago, we explored the notable features and capabilities of the Smith & Wesson 617 Mountain Gun—a premier choice in the arsenal of .22LR revolvers. This revolver stands out due to its superior construction and versatility, making it an ideal candidate for the kit gun concept. This piece intends to illustrate how the 617 can seamlessly transition into a scoped revolver setup, a technique championed by notable shooters like Bill Wilson and J.D. Jones.
The heart of this modification is the Smith & Wesson 617 Mountain Gun, the only current rimfire model in its lineup that showcases the high-grade Typer Gun Works walnut 'Bear Hug' grips. Accompanying its exceptional aesthetic, the gun retains traditional 617 features such as a 4.125” barrel, a stainless steel frame, and an adjustable rear sight, which I recently replaced with a Weigand Machine WEG-A-TINNY rail. For those interested in a more adaptable option, there are Picatinny rail adapters available for various handguns, suggesting that customization is both accessible and beneficial.
In my quest for a more enjoyable shooting experience, I decided to integrate a Burris 2x20 Handgun Scope into the 617’s configuration. Burris is among the few optics manufacturers that still produce quality long-eye relief handgun scopes, and its matte silver finish aligns splendidly with the 617’s aesthetics.
To optimize my setup, I sourced a custom Falco Holsters D112 “Lumberjack” leather holster; this piece is generally designed for larger handguns equipped with scopes, yet it fits the 617 beautifully. This holster includes a removable 10-round bandolier/shot card, which while functional, poses a challenge when dealing with smaller cartridges like those used in this revolver.
Considering the practical aspects of scoped handguns, I encountered common challenges related to field of view (FOV). The scope, while enhancing reaching out to targets, sacrifices peripheral visibility, which can make it tricky to account for environmental factors, such as nearby property or wildlife. Applying some practice, I found the S&W 617 capable of delivering precise shots at about 35 yards on a soda can-sized target. At such distances, the visibility around the target remained adequate to avoid collateral damage.
As I further refined my shooting technique—from the holster, for example—I found that maintaining a stable sight picture was achievable at ranges between 10 and 50 yards before the visuals began to deteriorate. Combining the revolver with CCI Clean 40-grain ammunition demonstrated solid performance, reinforcing its reputation for accuracy in the .22LR realm. Although I faced relentless weather conditions, the use of Re-Nine Safety Target Cones helped in establishing effective shooting distances, ensuring a focused approach despite the variables at play.
While not a substitute for precision platforms, using the Burris scope certainly enhances target clarity with enough magnification for responsible shooting despite the typical challenges of a revolver. For casual shooting enthusiasts, engaging with steel silhouettes at 100 yards remains a rewarding endeavor. However, the setup’s downfall resides in the revolver’s weight—unloaded, it tips the scales at an impressive 48 ounces.
The exploration of this revolver modification is more than a mere novelty; it offers a functional alternative for handgun hunting enthusiasts, particularly in regions where legal allowances exist. The unique attributes of handguns make them incredibly valuable for stalking game, allowing for greater mobility compared to traditional rifles. For those in hunting-friendly states, this rig could effectively eliminate pests such as groundhogs or prairie dogs.
In conclusion, while the experience was originally born from personal curiosity, the setup I’ve outlined holds substantial merit. The combination of a scoped Smith & Wesson 617 lends itself well to small-game hunting, fulfilling a niche that is both underexplored and exciting. I welcome any feedback on similar setups you might have tried or variations that enhanced your experiences. Thank you for reading The Rimfire Report, and I look forward to our next discussion!
ShoQ’s Take: This exploration into the capabilities of the Smith & Wesson 617 with added optics offers valuable insights for both novice and seasoned hunters. The practicality of a scoped revolver may find its place among small-game hunters and those looking to diversify their methods in states favoring handgun hunting. However, factors like weight and shooting dynamics highlight aspects that enthusiasts should consider. As engagement with varying setups continues, the community can benefit from sharing firsthand experiences to carve out innovative paths in small-caliber hunting. What remains clear is that there’s an evolving dialogue on how these adaptations can elevate our understanding of firearms’ roles in diverse hunting scenarios.