Both the Colt and S&W versions of the 1917 revolver are collectors items. Just like anything else in this hobby stay away from refinished or beat up examples. As long as an example is mechanically sound they can be used and enjoyed and are fun to shoot with either 45ACP or 45 Colt rimmed ammunition.
One caution here: There are NOT a lot of spare parts available for either of these revolvers so avoid acquiring one that's missing anything.
Jim

The 2nd Amendment IS an unalienable right.