I've still got the recalled 17 hmr version of the Remington 597. It has never once failed to operate as intended. That's why I've had such a tough time parting with it. However, the last time I shot it a week ago, I discovered a cracked empty and realize it's just a matter of time until I get a out of battery firing.
I'm going to go ahead and do the 22 mag barrel swap that Remington is offering. Looking at the specs for the 30 grain Vmax, it appears as if I'll be giving up very little in veloctity and only a little bit in accuracy.
I hope it's accurate and functions well though, because the 17 version has been fantastic gun in both regards.