S&W 1917 vs. Colt 1917

[The Virginian]

I have both of these revolvers and I must say I like the Smith and Wesson 1917 much better than the Colt 1917. One of the things I don not like about the Colt is the trigger has a two stage feel in double action and the single action pull is heavy compared to any other revolver, including other Colts. The S&W also seems lighter and balances better. Of those that own these guns, which one do you like better and why?

[jmcneil]

I'd say quit bragging and let me have one!

[SnWnMe]

The trigger reach is longer on the Colt. I just bought a New Service today. It's got the familiar stacking DA pull and sorta sluggish return that my Dick Spl has also.

[The Virginian]

That's one of the issues that I have with the Colt 1917, it takes quite a bit of effort to shoot it double action as the trigger is about 20 lbs. The S&W 1917 is smooth as silk with its double action pull. I also like the case hardened hammer and trigger better on the S&W.

[Falboy]

Since you don't like your Colt very much, I'll take it off of your hands...

[shil]

I like my 1917 Colt because it's so darn impressive because it's HUGE. I like my S&W for its handling qualities. I remember reading somewhere that the guys with big hands tended to favor the Colts, while those with smaller hands chose the S&W. I bought them years ago, when you could still find a decent example of either for a reasonable price. They're both great historical guns.... fun to shoot, too.

[The Virginian]

That is the reason I have both, just for the collection, but for shooting, I much prefer the S&W. If I had to go into battle with one, I still think I'd rather have the S&W since it is a more familiar action to me. Sorry, neither is for sale as they are in my historic section of my collection. I just got a Colt 1909 in .45 Colt in yesterday and I am going to restore it with the rust blue finish and fire blue appointments as it came from the factory.

[TangoRomeo]

Originally Posted by The Virginian

I just got a Colt 1909 in .45 Colt in yesterday and I am going to restore it with the rust blue finish and fire blue appointments as it came from the factory.

Some before and after pics would be greatly appreciated!

[The Virginian]

I am wondering if the Colts were finished in carbonia blue and not rust blue? What were the traditional finishes of the day?

[shil]

A Colt 1909, eh? Sweet! The blue was probably a military carbonia, but I am definitely no authority. Check this website. Very informative.
www.ronsgunshop.com/carbonia.html

[The Virginian]

I have been looking at his website prior to this post and was thinking it would be a good place to send my Colt 1909 after it has had all the polishing done to it. I am going to have the screws, ejector rod, cylinder latch and trigger fire blued by another vendor first.

[Richard]

The Virginian, I didn't reply earlier because you already know the story of the two Dicks. My father was also a Richard but he liked and carried Colts. His son, the other Dick (me), loves Smiths. I like Smiths so well I have no desire to own a Colt 1917 and I am not kidding. Regards from the "Other" Dick (Richard)

[The Virginian]

Dick:

I really have the Colt 1917 just for a collection standpoint, but for sheer joy of shooting, the S&W 1917 is far superior.

[The Virginian]

Does anyone know where to get replacement GI issue wood grips for 1917s that are affordable?

[The Virginian]

I just got another Colt 1917 with what looks like an arsenal refinish, do any of you know if they used carbonia, rust or hot blue at the arsenals? This one is not parkerized.

[Chuck S]

I have the S&W Model of 1917 US Army revolver. Can't compare it to the Colt's, I've never handled one. This is big enough for me and you guys are saying the Colt's is bigger!

I can't shoot many rounds from this beast without brusing my hand, but at 50 yards it's very, very accurate.

-- Chuck

[Josey]

I am thinking about a M17 MKII in 455 myself. A N frame is a sweet action. I like the old hand cannons. Colts are great to own and shoot. A S&W is simply a better feel for my hand.