I have a 629 Mtn Gun. For the small difference in weight, I would prefer the std 629 myself, if for no other reason than the sights. The Mtn Gun has black sights. They're great for a 6 o'clock hold on a white paper target, the more visible sights of the std 629 are better for EVERYTHING else. I doubt anyone can tell much difference in recoil between the two, I suspect that a std 629 with wood stocks would weigh in pretty close to the Mtn Gun equipped with heavier synthetic stocks, too.