Colt MK III Trooper 22 vs. S&W Model 18 or 17

[bluecrush]

I'm really looking at both of these revolvers. Can't carry in HI so it's strictly a range gun. I'm sure some of you have owned both. Please let me know your thoughts on which one you liked better and why.

Right now I can't make up my mind. I may just buy both and see.

Thanks in advance,

Crush

[big_gus]

Of these, I like the model 18 the most for collecting because of looks and production numbers were much much smaller than the 17. The trooper is definitely the biggest/beefiest of the 3 and is built like a tank! For target shooting and plinking in general, its hard to beat a
model 17 imo. All 3 are great choices and almost impossible to wear any of them out. Just don't snap/dry fire them because the firing pins can be damaged or broke.

[Bart45]

I have one of each, and the edge would go to the K22; however, the MK111 is great. Both of mine are from the '80's, and workmanship is superb. The K22 action seems to me to be a little smoother, and Smith guaranteed 1.5" grouping @ 50yds.

[Wyatt Burp]

Of these, I like the model 18 the most for collecting because of looks and production numbers were much much smaller than the 17. The trooper is definitely the biggest/beefiest of the 3 and is built like a tank! For target shooting and plinking in general, its hard to beat a
model 17 imo. All 3 are great choices and almost impossible to wear any of them out. Just don't snap/dry fire them because the firing pins can be damaged or broke.

That's nice to know about the Model 18. I would go for the Model 18 because the K-Frame is just a great frame size in general, and perfect for a not too heavy .22. Plus, I have one and never owned a Trooper. I paid $189 for this one around 1988. Traded it to a freind and offered him $450 for it back two years ago. If Model 17's are more plentiful, then I would go for one of those in a second. Here's mine. The most accurate handgun I've ever owned back in my hands. Good luck on your choice. You won't go wrong whatever you do.

[22_Matt]

From someone who owns all 3. If you are using it mainly for target shooting, you will like the 17 better. The Trooper is a great gun, but it's a bit heavy. Now if you were asking about a 17 vs a Colt Officers Model 22, then I'd say the Officers Model every time.

[Lawman67]

I like Colts ,but my most accurate 22 lr is my model 17 S&W. THe Colt Officers Model Match is close behind. THe Trooper Mark3 6 inch is overly heavy. THe S&Ws are lighter ,more accurate ,and more available at lower prices. Look for an older S&W, the new ones are not worthy of the Smith and Wesson name.