Originally Posted by ZTatZAU

Hello to All!

I am new to the S&W Forum and recently acquired my first S&W firearm. It's a Model 629 Classic 44 mag 6.5" Revolver with a Power Port vented barrel and would like to learn a little more about the gun.

The particulars from the revolver's box end label are as follows...

Model: 629
Cal: .44
Barrel: 6-1/2
Fin: S
Stock: RB
Product Code: 103624
Serial No: CBE 48XX
Spec Order: 6183

Based on the above information, can anyone tell me...

1. Date of Manufacture and/or Date of Shipment?

2. Did this revolver come from the S&W factory with the Power Port vent, or is this Power Port likely a later added modification?

3. Unlike some other 629's I've seen online with "44 Magnum" engraved on the left side of the barrel, my revolver shows "Smith & Wesson" on the left side of the barrel with "44 Magnum" engraved just below on the barrel lug. Can anyone tell me when this change in markings occurred and which is the earlier or later version?

4. Likewise I have seen other 629's with different dash numbers; i.e, 629-6, while my revolver shows 629-4 below the s/n on the frame yoke. Can anyone explain what the different dash numbers indicate?

Thanks in advance for any information provided.
ZT