The model 97 is a good deal smaller and has a hammer mounted transfer bar. There are some difference in the rear sight ajustment as well.
The model 83 is the large frame gun. It has a hammer block rather than a transfer bar. The model 83 can be had in an array of very powerfull chamberings including .454 Casull, .475 Linebaugh and .500 Wyoming Express. The largest caliber chambered in the model 97 is .45 Colt. The little model 97 in .45 Colt is plenty powerfull enough using handloads for deer. The model 97 in .41 magnum is also well suited for taking deer size animals.
I guess it all depends on your needs or wants. Both models are examples of sixgun (or fivegun) perfection.

 

Rocky;

The difference is size and weight. The Model 83 is based on the massive frame of the 454 Casull cartridge. The Model 97 is smaller and handles the smaller Magnum cartridges such as 41 and 357 and the 45 LC. I've heard the 97 is slightly smaller than the orginal colt SA frame.
It's just what you want in a revolver, magnum full house loads go with a 83. If you want lighter weight and smaller go with the 97.
I've got both models, and I seem to like the Model 97 better. It carries real good on a hip holster. .41 Magnum or 44 Special. Those are the two I have in the samller frame. 44 Magnum in the Model 83.
It's your choice. Both frame sizes are a HOOT to SHOOT.

Dennis

 

That figures... I want a 44 Mag. Looking at their website, the 44 mag is made in both the 97 and 83. Guess I have a decision to make now...

Also, as far as mechanicals is the field grade the same as the 83 except for the matt finish?

 

Rocky;

Unless things have changed, the 44 Magnum is NOT offered in the Model 97. Only the 44 Special. But I could be wrong.
Double Check!

Dennis

 

The field grade is a one year warranty and the primer grade is a life time warranty.

Dennis

 

Rocky;

Unless things have changed, the 44 Magnum is NOT offered in the Model 97. Only the 44 Special. But I could be wrong.
Double Check!

Dennis

You are correct. Maybe I'll have to scope my gun, as it looks like my eyes are playing tricks. I've looked at the 97 page several times and always thought it went 44 special and then 44 mag. But, looking closer, it is 41 mag...

 

It is interesting though that the a 45 colt can fit in the 97. The case is almost exactly the same size as a 44 mag.

 

One thing you have to consider when choosing a Model 97 is Cartridge Overall Length. Since the cylinders in the 97 are shorter, you cannot shoot the heavier bullets, such as the Keith bullets in .41 or the 45LC. Unless you seat the bullets over the shoulder which generally results in accuracy loss. That's if you reload. Most factory stuff, wheather it be .41 or 45 will fit.
But in the 97, in the 44 Special cartridge, since the case is much shorter you can load heavyweight bullets in the 44 Spl.
My pet load in my 44 Special is a 180gr. XTP bullet, going 1200+FPS. out of the 5-1/2" barrel.
Good Luck in your choice and I hope I haven't confused you.

Dennis

 

Comparing my 83’s and 97’s side by side, the 83’s are tighter and more accurate. I ordered a 97/22 a while back and when the gun came in I was not satisfied with the 20 yard groups they fired with the gun. So I sent it back, they returned the gun telling me accuracy was with in spec and if I wanted rifle like accuracy I should have ordered the mod 83 silhouette gun. Who buys a $1600.00 pistol and doesn’t expect rifle like accuracy? On my 97/22 and 44 special the cylinder has a touch of play and the 83’s do not even after many many rounds.

Someone told me once the 97’s were designed for cowboy shooting and that’s why they are not as tight as an 83. Based on my gun to gun comparison, the 97’s are not held to as strict of tolerances as the 83.

If you want the full FA experience go with the 83. If you want a lighter all day to carry gun go with the 97. For the 97 I prefer the 44 Special and for the 83 I prefer the 475L, assuming you reload.

Take Care,
Scott

 

For any big bore, .44 and up, I would recomend the '83.
The '97 is more like a compact frame, it is quite small. My .357 is a '97 and it is about the most cartridge I'd want to handle in that frame. The .44 spl would be OK too.
I would describe the '83 as a 'normal' frame instead of a large frame.
A six inch '83 in .44 mag. field grade would be a very nice choice and probably would not seem too large.
I shot some mild .454 casull loads in the '83 and it was very tame. A .44 mag would be a sweet shooter in that frame, even the hot loads.

 

There is a suh-weet looking 44 spl on Gunbroker with the fluted cylinder and 5 1/2". Just about perfect. If I weren't addicted to old model Rugers I'd have the money to buy it.