Just found this forum and signed up so am sort of test driving at this point. I'll try not to hit any curbs or run off the road so to speak. I have several S&W revolvers including a .22 and M1917 45. I'm looking seriously at getting a Model 29 but find there are many variations. Some not as good as others. Any thoughts on the Classic 50th Anniversary Model 29 .44 Magnum? Maybe an earlier version is as good, but I'm leery about all the 29-??? versions. Anyway, that's where I am at the present.

the 29-2 was made for a good long while and is very popular..it's the one carried in the dirty harry movies

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SWCA#2208
KK4EMO

You should be able to find a nice, original Model 29 for less than the Classic. That's what I would look for. Good hunting!

I was looking at one at the lgs it was BEAUTIFUL!The bluing is so nice almost made me put it on layaway.It is a 4 in. I think Im going to the lgs.Typed myself in to getting it!

Welcome Colonel, and thanks for your service.
Being somewhat of a traditionalist when it comes to Model 29s (I have a few), I prefer the older models which are readily available for considerably less and in excellent condition.
Without doubt the Classic is a very servicable revolver. I would not pay $969 for one, however.
That said, there are some advantages to these.
Getting a new one, you will also have the benefit of S&W's lifetime service warranty.
The new MIM lockwork is generally very smooth right out of the box, another plus for these guns. Again, many do not care for it, but I have never heard of a MIM part failing in a S&W revolver.
I won't go into the internal lock, which is another can of worms.
FWIW, last week a fellow brought a 29 Classic into the little LGS so sell (bad idea, obviously). They offered $250 (which he accepted) and put it in the case for $495. (I advised them to ask about $550) It sold the same day.

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-jwk-
US Army '72-'95

COL GEORGE M LIND,

I agree with everything krehmkej has said. Each generation of model 29 has something unique to offer and with so many changes over the years it can be a difficult decision.

I, like many people on this board, love the old craftsmanship and finishes of the early models. In reality, however, they can't compete with the durability and factory supported warranty offered with the newer guns. I own both and they both fill all the "nitches" I need.

On one hand the value of a well maintained and tight early 29 will never decline from their normal current pricing, in fact, they are continually climbing in value. A new 29 will cost more but that can be "a wash" in favor of the new gun if either should ever need servicing. The S&W warranty is an excellent one....

I'd suggest if you're going to shoot the gun frequently you may want to consider a new one. If you don't plan to shoot thousands of "hot" rounds through it and want to protect your investment then the earlier guns can be your best option....

Yours is a happy dilemma many are struggling with today....

JMHO

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Terry

I'm in central Florida, (moving soon, thanks be to goodness) and NICE 29 prices are north of $700 A very nice (99%) 29-2 4" no box or papers, recently went for $1,200. I guess I'm being punished for past infractions.

Better steel and closer tolerances equals a longer lasting and more accurate sixgun, if your not bothered by the lock(Im not) then go for it - I like them and I'm glad s+w is making them