I got bit by the .44 magnum bug! I have a number of handguns, one being the .357 mag 686P which is an incredible gun. My dilemma is this: I like the looks of the 629 Classic with the 5" barrel and full underlug, and the same for the 629 4" with partial underlug. This gun will be used for paper targets, maybe some hunting in the future, and SD/HD. Which would be a better all-around pistol...I've got experience in handguns so the recoil, weight, etc. will be no problem. But please don't tell me to buy one of each, because I probably will! I'm looking for any experience you might want to share on these fine S&W revolvers...any impressions are welcome. Thanks in advance.

I don't care for full underlugs, or barrels longer than 4", but those are just my personal preferences. If you plan on using it for hunting make sure your state permits the 4" barrel, some states have restrictions on them.

I agree with Jellybean...go with the 4"er, but make sure you can hunt with it first, if thats a requirement.

I have a very pretty 4 incher listed in the classifieds if you're interested...

quote:

Originally posted by Jellybean:
I don't care for full underlugs, or barrels longer than 4"

The only full lug guns I like are the L frames, and nothing longer than 4 inch.

Mike
SWCA 1975

Well.....not just to be different but the 5" barrel in the S&W lineup is one of the best balanced, easiest to use guns they make. The 5" Classic is a great all around 44 and if they discontinue anything it'll probably be that one first. There will always be a boatload of 5" 44's out there but the price will go UP(just look at the asking price for 5" 625's since they've been dropped). And just because you asked, I won't say it!

quote:

Originally posted by Jellybean:
I don't care for full underlugs, or barrels longer than 4"

+1

I really like the balance of the 5 inch classic full underlug .44. It has a longer sight radius for more accurate shooting, and a little more weight to assist in controlling recoil. I have a 4" 29-2 I have not shot in about 20 years as I switched to the 5 inch.

Tough choice. Any barrel from 4" to 8 3/8" is fine for what you describe. 5" is a good compromise, but like all compromises, it's too much of one thing and not enough of another - too short for best hunting results, too long and heavy for hiking, too big to conceal, etc. Having said that, I killed a deer with my 5" Classic a couple of years ago, I carry it concealed now and then, and I hike with it all the time.

So I like my 5" Classic, but for the same weight, I could get a standard 629 with a 6" barrel. Or I could get a 4" that's significantly lighter. Or maybe what I really need is a Mountain Gun...

As others have noted, 5" Smiths balance well and they look great. About the only real drawback is that nearly all holsters are made for 4" or 6.5" guns, so you have to go to a custom or use one that's a bit too long.

Check the law where you live. If the bullet hits the vitals, barrel length doesn't matter.


Okie John

We are limited to a 5" handgun for deer hunting in Ohio (that is, 5" or longer). I do really like my 5" 625 but my deer hunting has all been with either my Model 29 (8 3/8") or Ruger Red Hawk (in bad weather and it has a 7.5" barrel). Due to vision problems, both have a scope.

I use the Bianchi Ranger Hush system cross the chest holster and find it a VERY practical rig. It easily adjusts to light to heavy clothing (we have to wear the gun exposed) and carries with comfort.

Dale53

Id get the 5 inch as well, its the best compromise and if you hunt with it it would make a better hunting gun than the 4 inch.

I have a 5" 629 Classic and feel it to be the best compromise for a gun that isn't too big to carry all day in the woods and controlable for extended range sessions.

Unless there are legal issues, forget the bbl length. Go with the one that is most comfortable in your hand. There are circumventions for carry problems, etc. but there isn't much you can do to change the balance.

FWIW, I prefer the 629 classic with the 5" bbl because I like a muzzle heavy feel.

If you are going to shot it a "lot" with full house loads the full underlug will absorb a lot of recoil.

My two favorite 629s are the Mountain Gun and the 5 inch Classic. For a hunting or range gun, I would choose the Classic. For a "packin' pistol" with a lot of horsepower, you can't beat the Mountain Gun.

One disadvantage to the 5 inch Classic, there is very little leather made for it, Bianchi does make the 5BHL for it. And custom leather is always an option.