Smith & Wesson Revives the Model 1917 With a Modern Twist

Smith & Wesson is bringing back a piece of World War I history, and TFB TV got an early look at the new guns straight from company headquarters. The revolvers are a modern homage to the Model 22 of 1917, itself built off the second model .44 Hand Ejector and converted to .45 ACP for wartime issue.

Key points

• Two configurations: a 5.5-inch barrel version chambered only in .45 ACP, and a 4-inch "combo gun" that also shoots .45 Colt.
• Period styling: the .45 ACP model keeps the blued finish, walnut grips, half-moon front sight, trench rear sight, and a lanyard loop, built on S&W's large N-frame.
• Moon clip tradeoff: the .45 ACP-only gun runs standard half-moon clips, including the Governor's two-shot clips, while the dual-caliber version sacrifices some moon clip compatibility (and .45 Auto Rim entirely) to accommodate rimmed .45 Colt rounds.
• Not a true replica: Smith & Wesson rep Chisholm tells TFB TV the hammer, frame, and lockwork are all modernized, so collectors expecting an exact 1917 clone will notice differences up close.
• Pricing: S&W didn't give exact MSRP on camera, but says to expect pricing in line with its other blued N-frame revolvers.

Quick take

This is less a museum piece and more a working gun with historical flair, especially the .45 Colt version, which TFB TV's James Reeves and Chisholm argue adds real field utility for hunting or defense. If the vintage lanyard loop and trench sights speak to you, it's worth a closer look.

Watch the full video: TFB TV