Model 29-2 or new one?

[Varooom]

Hello All,

Would like to add a Dirty Harry 29 to my small collection.

Would like to get a nice, clean 29-2 (wouldn't everyone?) but there are none in my area so I will have to buy off the internet with only pictures for a reference. Don't know what you will really get that way. It is also really hard to determine if you are getting a good price or not.

Because of this I was thinking of just buying a new one.

Of course the -2 will have the recessed cylinders and pinned barrel. A new one will not.

Looking at pictures of the -2 the cylinder looks to be back further (less gap between cylinder and frame) since the rounds are recessed.

Is this just a cosmetic thing or will a -2 shoot better than a new one?

Also is the pinned barrel looks great, but is it necessary?

Just trying to decide which way to go.

BYW: This will not be a safe queen, I like to shoot and reload.

Thank you for your time,

Varooom

[Laketime]

For a little more money you can get a 29-2 which is the one to get in my opinion.Nothing wrong with a new classic just not the same as the old ones. The classics should be stronger than the older ones if you intend to use a lot new hotter factory ammo that is available today.

[lrb1200]

My 2 cents,

Been in this for decades, you plan on shooting the
bejeeezus out of a 29, intent to increase your proficiency,
or the sheer enjoyment of shooting a 44.

The 29-2 is made out of unobtainium at this point,
and there are fewer beautiful examples of this era of S&W
history every year. My examples are all retired, would I shoot
any of them on an occasion, yeah.
Would I make any of them a regular range gun, not.

Get a new one, who knows, if you still have it 40 years from
now, it may also be a significant part of S&W history.

My early 70's 6 1/2" 29.

[series guy]

If your main criteria is a faithful copy of Harry's gun you need to find an early 29-2 w/6 1/2" barrel. If you want a gun that is very accurate and looks like Harry's gun buy a new one. Some of the 29-2s that I've owned have had cylinder throats as large as .434 and didn't shoot well at all with lead bullets.

[Varooom]

Thanks guys,

Been watching GunBroker lately.

They seem to be available in the $1,200 to $3,000 range. A few good examples in the $2,000 area.

Just dont know what you are going to get.
series guy mentioned oversized throats. They are not going to mention that on an auction.

I will keep looking for a little while but I think a new one is the best way to go for my intended proposes.

Thanks again,

Varooom

[ken158]

A new 29 will shoot as well as a -2 and maybe better... you must have the skill to match the gun’s ability. Pinned and recessed is no advantage other then what us old guys prefer. The pin really serves no purpose and recessed is just that. Non recessed supports the case very well. You say it is hard to determine if you are getting a good value off a GB sale offering. If enough quality pics are included and you following sold and not just asking prices, I think it is very easy to determine quality and price of your intended purchase. You are going to shoot and reload. I would suggest you buy a new gun for the lifetime warranty and get the plug if the IL bothers you.

[Varooom]

Thanks Ken158,

Showing my ignorance here, what does "get the plug if the IL bothers you" mean?

Thank you,

Varooom

[bigggbbruce]

Get a 29 of any vintage and go shoot it until it dies...I came up with a 4" Nickel 29-2 in March and only paid $500(really)

I'm in my 60's and plan on shooting it until I can't anymore...at that time my stepson can have it and do what ever he wants with it...

[merl67]

Originally Posted by Varooom

Thanks Ken158,

Showing my ignorance here, what does "get the plug if the IL bothers you" mean?

Thank you,

Varooom

IL=internal lock
Plug= plugs hole where lock used to be in frame.

[merl67]

Varooom how much experience do you have with the 44 mag, or any magnum revolvers?

[pharmer]

4" 29-2= much rompum' stompum'. 8 3/8 29-5 is about like +P in a Model 15. Something to consider. Joe

[shocker]

Originally Posted by pharmer

8 3/8 29-5 is about like +P in a Model 15.

44 special, true. 44 mag? Uh,no.

[CajunBass]

I've owned a couple of -2's over the years, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy one of the new ones. It would just depend on the price.

[Varooom]

Originally Posted by merl67

Varooom how much experience do you have with the 44 mag, or any magnum revolvers?

I have been shooting on and off for about 40 years.

Originally a 1911 guy but have gotten into revolvers lately.

Mostly Ruger Blackhawks. Have a 44 BH Bisley Hunter that I hunt with, and a couple BHs in 45 colt. Ruger GP 100 Match Champion and a Kimber K6 as my carry gun.

Always loved the Model 29, 6.5, blued (well, since about 1971). Did not realize S&W was still making them.

I really have enough guns. Told the wife the 29 will be the last one. We will see

[deyomatic]

There have been a few other "dashes," too...could probably find a -3 in the $750 range and, while it won't have the pinned barrel, it WON'T have that ugly Internal Lock.
I'd look for the -2, though. It will only go up in value (as long as you keep it nice) and, let's face it, that's what Harry Callahan had, right?

[zzclancy]

Frankly you don't want a new one. Just keep looking. I would go pre lock.

[muddocktor]

If you decide to get a revision newer than a -2, I would suggest buying a -4E and up as they have the endurance package. I've also been looking for a model 29 myself, but I would rather a nickel gun over a blue finish as I find they are easier to care for. And of the nickel finish guns, it seems they are -3 or older so far on GB.

[doctorfronk]

Last year I finally bought a brand new Model 29 ("Classic"), after waiting nearly 40 years to do so; however, am hugely disappointed with it for various reasons, reasons which will remain unsaid.

Anyway, a few months later I saw a used 8 3/8" long barrel 629 on consigment at the same gun dealer where I purchased the new Model 29; bought it as soon as I saw it on the display case!

is an older model--has the hammer-mounted firing pin, like on a 70s nickel plated Model 27.
I like its action much better than that on the new Model 29 (akin to what all other older S&W revolvers I own do, and the new 29 doesn't)...

[Nightowl]

I have a 29-2 I have had for 50 years. It was heavily used for a number of years and now I don't shoot too many .44 Magnum rounds. But, it is just as good today as it was when I bought it new. It does, however, have .432 throats.

I have newer ones too and if I were buying a .44 Magnum today, I would find a 29-5, or a 629-3 or -4, either Classic or standard. It would have the lifetime warranty, hammer mounted firing pin, forged internals, and NO LOCK. Mine shoot very well. Cylinder throats are right at .429, too.

[Carrier]

Originally Posted by doctorfronk

Last year I finally bought a brand new Model 29 ("Classic"), after waiting nearly 40 years to do so; however, am hugely disappointed with it for various reasons, reasons which will remain unsaid.

Anyway, a few months later I saw a used 8 3/8" long barrel 629 on consigment at the same gun dealer where I purchased the new Model 29; bought it as soon as I saw it on the display case!

is an older model--has the hammer-mounted firing pin, like on a 70s nickel plated Model 27.
I like its action much better than that on the new Model 29 (akin to what all other older S&W revolvers I own do, and the new 29 doesn't)...

If you don’t want to say here then please pm me as I’m looking at buying a new 29 Classic. Would really like to hear what issues you had as it might save me some grief.

[shakyshoot]

I went through the same debate not too long ago before buying my first 44 mag. I wound up with a brand new 629-6 and couldn't be happier with it. Super accurate and no issues whatsoever. Only problem is, I still want the 29-2 just as much as before, probably more. You won't go far wrong either way IMO.

[doctorfronk]

Originally Posted by Carrier

If you don’t want to say here then please pm me as I’m looking at buying a new 29 Classic. Would really like to hear what issues you had as it might save me some grief.

Because I did not want to add fuel to the fire (pardon the pun!),opted to refrain from saying anything more negative than what I stated...but in second though I believe merits to describe what I believe to be deleterious aspects affecting, in my view, my new Model 29 "Classic" revolver.
thus without further ado...

First off, I absolute abhor that hideous "Hillary hole" lock; I believe affects the action in some negative way.

Second, overall finish quality isn't what I expect from a $1100+ firearm (it doesn't come even close to older 29s), let alone this N frame revolver.
I find its "bluing" to be subpar (next to a blued Colt Phyton really looks cheap and cheese).

Third, action is gritty and rather heavy, much heavier than what I experience with older S&W revolvers (Model 27, K-22, SS 617, 629, and Mountain Gun. By direct comparison, a 70s Ruger Redhawk 44 magnum has smoother and lighter action, and is a gun that some believe to have a heavier action and no where close to Smithies).
Here again, it just isn't what I expect from such costly firearm.

Fourth...those damned cheap looking grips!
They should have stuck to Goncalvo Halves.

Fifth...quality control sucks!
My particular sample exhibits a very poorly stamped S&W medallion on the right side frame!
This is what peeded me off the most.
"Classic" my deplorable latino's butt.

Sixth...after learning that S&W had revolvers with off-center threaded frames (686s, I believe)...and because barrels are "crushed" to the frame rather than pinned or whatever else was done prior to latest assembly work, am wondering if my 29 was assembled properly.
But I shot it once (thus far) and seems to be ok, tho.

That, in a nutshell, is my opinion regarding THIS particular Model 29 sample...

[doctorfronk]

Am not bashing S&W...as other reputable firearms companies seem to be producing subpar quality guns as well (Kimber, for example).

I love Smithy revolvers and always will; am just not too impressed with their latest products (at least my 29 or my next door neighbor's new 656)...

[JH1951]

Hello Varoom. I was faced with the same 'shopping situation' a while back. Doing hands-on comparisons with the 29-2 and the newer Classic, the 29-2 won out.
I was more favorably impressed with the 29-2 overall. To me, the finish on the Classic just wasn't 'quite there', nor were the stocks. The 29-2 is a bit of an old school throwback being pinned and recessed, and I really like that.
Your opening sentence suggests that you 'want to add a Dirty Harry 29 to your collection', so chalk up another plus for the 29-2. Do yourself a favor and handle both, then make up your mind. Don't let impulse or impatience sway you too much.
I am exceptionally happy with the 29-2 that I picked up, and as long as I do not abuse it, I should be able to sell it for more than I paid for it due to market value increases.
Patience pays off......

[292]

Originally Posted by Varooom

I have been shooting on and off for about 40 years.

Originally a 1911 guy but have gotten into revolvers lately.

Mostly Ruger Blackhawks. Have a 44 BH Bisley Hunter that I hunt with, and a couple BHs in 45 colt. Ruger GP 100 Match Champion and a Kimber K6 as my carry gun.

Always loved the Model 29, 6.5, blued (well, since about 1971). Did not realize S&W was still making them.

I really have enough guns. Told the wife the 29 will be the last one. We will see

Please stop that crazy talk.

[292]

I'd definitely go with the 29-2. Shop around and you should be able to get 1 close to the new price. Especially if you're looking for a shooter.

[Varooom]

Thank you all,

Thank you doctorfronk!

I appreciate your honesty. I was ready to get a new one but the "Hillary hole" did it for me.

I will take my time and look for a nice -2.

Thanks again,

Varooom

[noro]

Varoom,

Choice is up to you and how much you can reasonably afford. You've done your homework and know the price ranges of the
29-2, and the brand new classic 29.

Not knowing your finances, would you consider a new 629
stainless? Right now prices are much lower for stainless than the
classic series. If you're considering a shooter and not a collector piece, this might be the way to go. I just picked up a new 629
and the fit, function, and finish are all excellent. Accuracy is great, and no defects at all.

[shocker]

"It's Dirty Harry vs. the Psycho Killer... which one is the cop?" Phrase from a movie poster I saw on college campus back in the 70's.

Anyway, the Colt Python from "Magnum Force" is a way cooler gun.

Back on topic, since you said the magic words shooter and reloader... get a modern 629, -5 or later. Stronger gun with the enhancement package, easier to maintain (besides the stainless, cleaning recessed cylinders is more tedious). MIM parts gets you out of the collectibles so you don't pay a premium for nostalgia.

BTW, I owned a 29-2 for 30 something years before I sold it and upgraded to a 629-5. No regrets. Sold the 629-5 and replaced it with a 69. No regrets there either. Technology advances.

[G-Mac]

Originally Posted by Varooom

Would like to add a Dirty Harry 29 to my small collection.

You just answered your own question(s).


You're welcome!

[jmclfrsh]

Try Armslist. Filter it to your state and you can meet the seller in person and examine it like you want to.

If it is an out-of-state purchase it can come to your FFL.

There are quite often 29-2s on there in very good condition. I purchased two 629s, a P&R 57 .41 Magnum, a 6” 29-3 and finally a 6 1/2” P&R 29-2 from a fellow in which it was his fathers whom passed away and he never even fired it. My 57 was the exact same thing. Was a kid’s dad’s gun and he never fired it.

They both shoot great and the prices are way below GB. I like to think the guns went to someone whom appreciates them, just like the dad probably wanted.

Lastly, I’d far rather have an older Smith than a newer one, but I’m 57, reload, and that is what I grew up with. The poor quality control I read about, the Hillary hole and the blueing not being what I am used to on a Smith & Wesson revolver are three strikes against them in my opinion.

Plus, the 6 1/2” 29-2 in hand just “does it” for me, as in “now THAT’S a revolver!”

You can find 29-3s for a reasonable price, often $750-800 without a presentation case and models with the case, tools and papers run about $1100-1200 typically.

[jmclfrsh]

One more thing. Look at pawn shops and gun shows, too. They are available there as well.

In any case, Google or look on YouTube on how to examine a used revolver. Timing and hammer push are two things you should first know what they are and secondly how to look for them when you initially examine a revolver you are potentially purchasing. I bought one of my 629s only by sight early on and I needed to purchase a replacement hammer and trigger because someone tried to make the trigger “better” only to ruin them in the process.

That added $400 to the price of the gun but I could not just try to sell it like that and screw someone else. I had it fixed and kept it, and it is very accurate. But had I known, I would have passed on it in the beginning.

[RMFnLA]

Originally Posted by series guy

If your main criteria is a faithful copy of Harry's gun you need to find an early 29-2 w/6 1/2" barrel. If you want a gun that is very accurate and looks like Harry's gun buy a new one. Some of the 29-2s that I've owned have had cylinder throats as large as .434 and didn't shoot well at all with lead bullets.

If he really wants a faithful copy of Harry's gun he might have to get a Model 57.

Rumor was that what was actually used in the first film because Model 29s were hard to come by and one wasn't available when they shot the film.

[Laketime]

Originally Posted by RMFnLA

If he really wants a faithful copy of Harry's gun he might have to get a Model 57.

Rumor was that what was actually used in the first film because Model 29s were hard to come by and one wasn't available when they shot the film.

False.Anyone can tell the difference between a model 29 6.5 inch barrel and a 6 inch barrel as the 57 came in.

[doctorfronk]

Originally Posted by Varooom

Thank you all,

Thank you doctorfronk!

I appreciate your honesty. I was ready to get a new one but the "Hillary hole" did it for me.

I will take my time and look for a nice -2.

Thanks again,

Varooom

Is been my pleasure providing some help.

Please understand that other than that horrible, hideous "Hillary hole," which is an standard feature on current S&W revolvers (political correctness **** strikes again!), everything else negative I described might be specifically related to my own particular 29 sample.

Anyway, out of sheer frustation began to look for older 29s and what I found is shocking!
Prices are at a par with what one would have to shell out for a Colt Phyton (bought one from a California resident recently, and am happy as a pig chomping on slop--is an absolutely beautiful revolver whose action is sheer delight!); seen some going for over $3000.

So if I want to get my "Dirty Harry" Smithy needed to veer my attention to the Model 57, which tho been chambered in .41 Magnum otherwise looks identical to Clint's Model 29.
Located one in absolute pristine condition at a more sane affordable price, and wanted to buy it.
However, a huge fly just crapped on the ointment...

Since I reside in the Venezuela-like progressive socialist state of commiefornia, found out from my FFL dealer that the only Model 57 I can purchase now has to be in the DOJ's roster...meaning that it has to have a "-6" after the model number...which I believe is the new "Classic" model with all of its attendant negative features!

Anyhow, be patient and get exactly what you want (although I wouldn't discount the Model 57 as a viable alternative).
Wish you the best in your quest...

[deyomatic]

Another couple of notes...

Doesn't S&W realize that they lose business because of that ugly internal lock? I refuse to own one, and it sounds like quite a few of the forum members agree. Put that foolishness to bed already...

If you decide NOT to get a vintage 29 and that you really DO want a new one..****ger Redhawk? Not as handsome as a pre-lock 29 and Harry Callahan certainly didn't use one, but it's probably more gun for the money than a new 29 classic.

[p8riot]

Picked up a nice 4" 29-2 about two weeks ago for $800, no box or anything. They are out there.

[BigBill]

The IL doesn't bother me but my smiths never go in a holster nor in the woods. My redhawks are for that. My s&w m29-10 means that it had ten upgrades done to it. It's the best m29 that smith can offer us. Don't like the IL leave them for me.

[G-Mac]

Originally Posted by BigBill

My s&w m29-10 means that it had ten upgrades done to it.

Not exactly. Each new version of a given model may have one or more changes. For example, from 29-2 to 29-3 eliminated both pinned barrels and recessed cylinders. Whether or not each new "dash number" represented an upgrade or improvement is open to debate.

[Laketime]

Originally Posted by G-Mac

Not exactly. Each new version of a given model may have one or more changes. For example, from 29-2 to 29-3 eliminated both pinned barrels and recessed cylinders. Whether or not each new "dash number" represented an upgrade or improvement is open to debate.

The dash 3 was defiantly the first cost cutting change, followed later by two more

[Jack Flash]

I have a 6" M29-3 and a 5" M629-5. I like both a lot and never felt the need for a Dirty Harry model. Maybe some day if I want to stand in front of a mirror saying through clinched teeth
"Well, do you, Punk?"

I really like P&R, but the -3 is just fine without them. It has a good trigger and the finish is excellent. Or it was excellent until someone dropped it on the cement. Oh well, that's why I got a good price on it.

Some would lament that the 629 has MIM hammer and trigger, but so far so good. I really like the 5" barrel, chamfered cylinder, and round butt. These features make it seem somehow more like a K-Frame. Many believe a 5" barrel is perfect for the N-Frame. I do like it. Stainless steel is great if you plan to shoot and carry it afield a lot. It has (should have?) the endurance package so if I ever decide to shoot a lot of full-power loads I will not worry much. As it is, I have so far only shot my own mild hand loads, in a .44 Mag case of course.

[greenmachine]

QUOTE: "If you decide NOT to get a vintage 29 and that you really DO want a new one..****ger Redhawk? Not as handsome as a pre-lock 29 and Harry Callahan certainly didn't use one, but it's probably more gun for the money than a new 29 classic."

Boo-Hiss!

[Snapping Twig]

I wouldn't trade my 29-2 for a IL version even with cash coming my way.

Keep your loads SAAMI and you can shoot it for several lifetimes.

[doctorfronk]

Carrier:

GunBroker.com has 6" nickle plated Model 29-3 available.

Is not the "Dirty Harry" look, but nickle plated Smithies are the rarest. Just saying...

[deyomatic]

Originally Posted by greenmachine

QUOTE: "If you decide NOT to get a vintage 29 and that you really DO want a new one..****ger Redhawk? Not as handsome as a pre-lock 29 and Harry Callahan certainly didn't use one, but it's probably more gun for the money than a new 29 classic."

Boo-Hiss!

I know...I know... I just hate the locks and that S&W keeps putting them on there. My 3 year old 442 doesn't have one...they should make it an option, then when they realize that people only tolerate them, they'd kill them already.