I have a couple of 83's and one 97. The 97 is a 44 Spl in a 5.5" barrel. The 97 is a lighter frame FA that is about the size of a Ruger but with the tighter tolerances. Because of the lighter frame, it isn't for full boogie loads but in the intermediate range, your gun will let you know how far you can push it. If you like FA's and don't want to spend about $2K+/-, then the 97 is for you.
I own a .22, a .32H&R, and a .45 Colt /.45 ACP convertible. I owned and sold a .44 Special. They're all excellent. If you don't need or want the power of a .44 Mag. or greater, I can highly recommend the 97.
Posts: 272 | Location: North Carolina,USA | Registered: 17 August 2004
My one and only FA is a M97 in 45 Colt. It is a fine piece that carries well, has plenty of power and is incredibly accurate. I picked it up used for much, much less than retail.
Posts: 1580 | Location: Either far north Idaho or Hill Country Texas depending upon the weather | Registered: 26 March 2005
I've got a 4.25" .44 spcl that has become my everyday carry gun when I walk the dogs or go afield. Carries NICELY in an EPS tom 3persons.
The 97's are great guns. Tough price$ but once you have one You don't look back. I recently shot one in .357 with light mag loads, more like std .38's. It was VERY comfortable compared to mine with 950 fps 250 gr loads. Gets me thinking that maybe I need ANOTHER 97!!
I owned a couple. Sold them all when S&W came out with the X frames and am happy I changed. FA makes a fantastic revolver but for the money the Smith X frames are a better buy.
My biggest fear is when I die my wife will sell my guns for what I told her they cost.
I've got a 97 in 45 Colt w/7.5" bbl. It ia an awesome revolver - extremely accurate and locks up tighter than my safe. Unfortunately the grip shape does not agree with my hands. Get my knuckle busted pretty much every shot (250 LSWC @ 1000 fps). Dammit all anyway! Although it is nowhere near as fine a piece, the Ruger Bisley is much easier for me to shoot.
