I have an option to buy a s&w model 17-3 at my local gun shop at a pretty good price, but I was previously holding out for a 63-2 or earlier. I've shot the 63-2 and liked it a lot. Great little gun and fun to shoot all day. The frame size was very nice and it felt perfectly balanced in my hand. However, it may be a while before I can run across a clean 63 pre lock so it may be a test of my patience. Will the 17-3 suffice or should I hold out? Thanks!