I like the thread about the 45, figured this was another good idea.
I'm thinking about the S&W 617, I want stainless but what is the best?
I think stainless makes any revolver better. I've never owned either a 17 or 617 so my advice is hearsay but when I think of the answer to your question, that's what immediately jumps to mind. There may be eras of the 17 that were better than when the 617's were made though. I'll let the experts sort that out, but if I were looking for the best revolver, the 617 is what I think of. If it had to be more packable, I'd go 63 in a heartbeat. I've owned at least one of those and it was great. Wish one of each was in the gunsafe right now.
If for some reason you wanted a single action, I'd get a Colt Scout-sized New Frontier with the extra Mag cylinder or a stainless Ruger Super Single Six. My wife has the Colt but I'd actually kinda lean towards the Ruger on this one.
Overall, 617.
