[Ops Officer]

Originally, I wanted to install a gold bead front sight on my S&W 617 with a six inch barrel. But I have yet to find anyone who makes a gold bead sight for it. For example, a 14 ct. gold bead sight from SDM Fabricating is available in two heights: .250" and .300". The factory front sight on my 617 measures .175" high. I considered a fiber optic sight as well, but the ones I've checked are still too high. What do you recommend? Thanks.

[20nickels]

Contact Scott at SDM. I know from personal dealings that he won't sell you something you cannot use.

Scott D. Mulkerin SDM Fabricating Inc.3775 Foskett RoadMedina , Ohio 44256 330-723-3098email sdmfab@zoominternet.netweb www.sdmfabricating.com

[Ops Officer]

You're right about Scott. He emailed me promptly that he doesn't have a sight lower than .250". His personal 617 has green paint on the front sight. He also mentioned the factory doesn't make a rear sight to accomodate a front sight higher than .175". This is not good news. I was hoping the SDM Fabricating gold bead would work because it looks to be high quality.

Does anybody use an aftermarket front sight for the 617?

[Master Blaster]

Maybe you should call S&W's peformance center.
I'm pretty sure they can do front sights.

[JoeHatley]

HiViz makes a version specifically for the 617: http://www.hivizsights.com/Handgun-Smith-Wesson-617-model-revolvers-P51C9.aspx

You could always have a local smith drill your existing blade and install a short section of brass rod to create your own "gold bead".

Good Luck...

Joe

[Ops Officer]

Master Blaster, I'll contact the Performance Center, but I am not hopeful. SDM Fabricating told me S&W doesn't make a gold bead front sight. But the Performance Center is the custom shop at S&W and may give me a difference answer.

JoeHatley, thanks for reminding me about Hi-Hiz. I just had a green Hi-Viz installed on my 625 Model of 1989 4" barrel. I forgot Hi-Viz also made one specifically for the 617. Appreciate the URL. I emailed Hi-Viz and asked whether its front sight was the required .175" height so I can use my factory rear sight.

I'll get back to you all. Thanks.

[20nickels]

Please do post your results. I am looking for nightsights for my 617 as well. Am even considering dovetailing in a small (J Point?) electronic sight where the rear sight goes so it would still holster naturally.
I think SDM makes the gold beads for S&W.

[Rover 'n Rugers]

Sometime back in a gun magazine mention was made of a custom gold bead made up by Cylinder & Slide. I had Jim Stroh (Alpha Precision) make up one for a Magnum Carry once and he offered different size beads.