I used to have a 1914 Colt New Service chambered for .455 Webley for an emergency British order when they were beginning to understand how massive WWI would become and they realized they wouldn't have enough Webleys in the short term.
That New Service was the same pistol as the 1917, other than the chamber being shaved for moon clips.
It was the tightest, sturdiest revolver I've ever owned. The fit and finish were amazing. And granted, that was Colt peacetime production, but you could just feel the quality. I have little doubt their M1917s were just as well-made.
I also own a Smith version of an M1917, though, and I like that one better. It's lighter, the balance feels better, the ergonomics make more sense to me, and in general it points better for me. But it rattles; the tolerances are much looser than they were on that Colt New Service.
Enjoy it!
