Anyone Woods Carry A 629 6" ?

AgentSmith · #1 05-05-2009, 02:53 PM

I've been looking around for a nice 629 4" or 5" with no luck at all. I'd prefer not to do the "internet" thing this time.
Well, I found a 629 Pre-Lock 6.5" Power Port model like new for a decent price.
I planned on carrying this as a woods gun on foot, and on the 4-wheeler, etc.
However, I'm apprehensive about the barrel length and weight making it too uncomfortable to carry. FWIW, I'm only 5'10" 210#, 34" waist, not a "big guy" by any means.
Any advice appreciated.

SmithNut · #2 05-05-2009, 03:11 PM

I think carrying a 6" gun for an extended amount of time would become drudgery, I've done it and won't consider doing it again.
One option is to send it to S&W and have them install a 4" barrel (standard or Mountain Profile). Might cost ~$150-200 (not sure), but it would be what you want for carry purposes.
You could then sell the Powerport barrel to recover some of your expense for the conversion.

29aholic · #3 05-05-2009, 03:15 PM

Agent
When I first started packing a handgun deer hunting it was a 6" 29-3. I was about 5' 5" and maybe 110lbs at the time. I bought me a good crossdraw holster that worked well. Tried shoulder holsters and didnt like them. I have since cut the bbl to 5" and still carry it every year. No problems

viceunit · #4 05-05-2009, 05:25 PM

I have carried a 6.5" 29-2 in a crossdraw rig for many deer seasons, probably a dozen, and on other woods expeditions. I have a new Lawman Leather Dirty Harry shoulder holster I have not tried yet, but hope it is comfortable. But the crossdraw holster worn slightly in front of my hip at an angle has been very comfortable and offers easy access even sitting. Plus, in inclement weather I can put my coat over the gun to keep it dry or my forearm over it protects the gun from getting scratched on tree branches or fences, whatever. I am about your size and I never experienced a problem.

okie john · #5 05-05-2009, 06:29 PM

I use a 4" Model 29-2 or a 1911 for general knocking around in the woods. I've hunted a fair amount with my 5" Model 629 Classic. It's workable as a woods gun in a good holster on a good belt, but it's a bit too big and heavy to be perfect.

I'd keep looking for a 4" 41, 44 or 45. They're absolutely perfect for what you describe. The Model 22 Model of 1917 would also work if you can stomach the lock.

Okie John

Czbilly · #6 05-05-2009, 06:31 PM

I find the other opinions interesting. I too carry a 6.5 cross draw and find it very comfortable. I wear a seperate wide belt loosly and slide it around to get it where I want it. A couple speed loaders in holders opposite the pistol helps balance the whole rig out.

SmithNut · #7 05-05-2009, 08:03 PM

You know, just about anything can be done, big or small. Over the years I've developed a keen sense of what works for me and the only way I'd consider carrying anything large enough to not fit in my pocket is going to go strong side, IWB. That pretty much limits my barrel lengths, for all practical purposes, to 4", even though I have a nice Kramer IWB that hides a nice Ruger Bisley 45 Colt pretty well, but I digress.
My comments above are meant to convey the discomfort of a long barrel slapping against my thigh, either strong side, or cross draw, having the option of a shorter barrel is the cat's meow to me.
I won't carry via shoulder rig, just doesn't work for me from a practical standpoint, and cross draw still means a gun attached OWB and jumping around if I'm active. Not something that I find comforting for an all day adventure, in the woods or in town. I like to sit down from time to time, and having to figure a way to do so with a long barrel is not the easiest thing to do without a fold up chair or conveniently positioned stump out "in the field". I'm getting old and comfort is pretty high up on my list.
As I say, anything can be done, but from a comfort standpoint with a large gun, I prefer it close in, secure and comfortable.
I've got a few thousand dollars in (once) used holsters that won't get any more belt time to confirm that I've fell prey to the "it might work" philosophy, only to be - once again- reinforced that OWB belt carry isn't a workable solution to me.
Thanks for listening...

AgentSmith · #8 05-05-2009, 08:16 PM

Thanks for the info.

For my situation, IWB with an N-frame isn't going to happen.

It's either cross-draw, or some type of shoulder rig. I'd prefer a cross-draw, but can't see how the 12" length of the 6.5" bbl 629 could possibly be viable.

Saw a nice rig mentioned by Clint Smith in the latest Hangunner. $165!!

GoHogs · #9 05-05-2009, 08:17 PM

I carried a Mag-Na-Ported 629-1 6" (pinned but not recessed)in a fabric Assault Systems shoulder holster every step, every day for many deer hunting seasons. When in a tree stand the barrel would prop it up relieving any weight at all. I got used to it and it worked well. Still have it.
Being older now, I tend to appreciate toting a 4" M58 in a cross draw UM belt holster a little more and enjoy not having the drag on the old shoulders.

Dale53 · #10 05-05-2009, 09:35 PM

I hunted for many years with a S&W Model 29 (8 3/8" barrel with SCOPE) or, in bad weather a 7½" Ruger Red Hawk with a scope). I carried both, cross the chest in a Bianchi Hush System in rough country and NEVER had a problem. I am 5'10" tall and at the time weighed 180 and was in reasonable shape. The combination of the cross chest holster, attached also to a wide, padded Bianchi waist belt with a belt pouch on the off side made a VERY workable combination.

When it came time to shoot, I had full confidence in my hits (one to a customer).

If I were just woods rambling, then normally I would prefer a 4" handgun. However, when grouse hunting I often carried a 6½ Model 624 with a crossdraw holster along with my Beretta O/U Shotgun. I often hunted in REALLY rough country and again, not a problem.

Use what works for you and never look back...

FWIW
Dale53

Ron H. · #11 05-05-2009, 10:10 PM

Sir, a 6-1/2-inch N-frame, especially with a full underlug barrel, is more than I want to lug around all day. If I had to, though, I'd want a separate gunbelt with a stiff holster that prevents flopping around. I've carried a 7-1/2-inch Super Blackhawk that way, and it worked tolerably well. A shoulder rig is another option, but comfortable shoulder rigs are less common than one might think.

IMHO the better plan is to keep looking for a shorter gun.

Hope this helps, and Semper Fi.

Ron H.

BUFF · #12 05-06-2009, 12:38 AM

I'm with Ron H. A standard profile 6 or 6-1/2 inch N frame would be my limit for general woods carry. A full-length underlug barrel of 6-1/2 inches would cross the line of comfort for me.

My hips aren't too pronounced, though, and heavy guns tend to keep trying to pull my pants down unless I cinch the belt so tight it begins to cut off circulation!

For 10 years, I wore a 6 inch Model 66 to work daily. It was on a separate belt (Sam Browne), but with a high-ride holster and a muzzle-rear cant, it was fine as far as sitting, either in a patrol car or a regular chair or bench.

skeete · #13 05-06-2009, 02:40 AM

I have carried the 6" and 6 1/2" 629 when in bear country and the extra weight over the 4" is balanced by the fact it will hit harder. That is a comfort that out weights the extra discomfort of the weight difference between the 4" and 6" barrels. In small bear country or mountaim lion country I really like the SW 329 though I hate to fire it with my carry loads of Garretts.
Shoulder holsters IMO are not comfortable at all. A heavy contoured belt like Galco's and a close riding Roy Baker pancake holster is no problem for this average size guy.

g17 · #14 05-06-2009, 12:51 PM

As Curtis wrote, I also carry a 6" 629 in a Bianchi cross draw holster with no problems. I have 4" models but the 6" is what goes with me to the woods.

handyman · #15 05-06-2009, 01:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by AgentSmith:
I've been looking around for a nice 629 4" or 5" with no luck at all. I'd prefer not to do the "internet" thing this time.
Well, I found a 629 Pre-Lock 6.5" Power Port model like new for a decent price.
I planned on carrying this as a woods gun on foot, and on the 4-wheeler, etc.
However, I'm apprehensive about the barrel length and weight making it too uncomfortable to carry. FWIW, I'm only 5'10" 210#, 34" waist, not a "big guy" by any means.
Any advice appreciated.

There are a couple on Guns America right now in 4".

model14 · #16 05-06-2009, 01:38 PM

You are 5'10", 210 pounds, with a 34" waist? Are you kidding me? You must be Mr. Muscle 2009, or something like that

J Danley · #17 05-06-2009, 02:13 PM

Quote:

I planned on carrying this as a woods gun on foot, and on the 4-wheeler, etc.

That is what I use my 4" 629 for. I camp and ride ATVs in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

I carry mine in a cross draw shoulder holster.

deckert · #18 05-06-2009, 02:16 PM

Sure, it can be done... I did it for a few years myself. But a 6" 629 is a big, heavy weapon and you will know it's there!

I went to a 4" .41 Magnum... much easier to tote all day. Not much lighter of course but a more comfortable package.

AgentSmith · #19 05-06-2009, 02:27 PM

Quote:

You are 5'10", 210 pounds, with a 34" waist? Are you kidding me? You must be Mr. Muscle 2009, or something like that

I was a competitive powerlifter for years. Finally gave it up last year at 37 years old.

I'm astonished at how scarce 44mag revos are in my area. No ammo, no guns........I'll keep searching.

Nice rig above J Danley.

VAdoublegunner · #20 05-06-2009, 02:31 PM

Do you like Single Actions at all? A 4 5/8" Ruger Super Blackhawk packs very nicely, they are usually easier to find than 4" 629s and a good bit less expensive.

29aholic · #21 05-06-2009, 02:47 PM

Agent
Here's you an alternative, and one I have considered myself. I saw him at Tulsa and these are cool...good price too.

http://www.davidjohnstonleathe...es/GuidesChoice.html

Stainz · #22 05-06-2009, 06:06 PM

Several years back, I said good-bye to my 4" 629MG and hello to a new current stock 629 4". It joined a similar current stock 6" 629, both sharing the same larger hammer & trigger; w/o rear & rr front; and my preferred partial-lug barrel. While the 629MG weighed 39.5 oz, the 4" 629 weighs 41.5 oz and the 6" 45 oz. I added the X-frame (.460/.500 Magnum) grips to pad the backstrap and make the recoil a bit more tolerable.

Some years back, I had a SRH in .454 equipped with a Weaver H2 2x28mm scope - and visions of serious hunting by carrying it in a across the chest holster, due to the size with that scope. It never went to fruition - and the SRH is a memory now. Skip ahead to last fall - and I replaced my 6" 629's rear sight with a Weigand scope rail - and mounted that same Weaver (see below). Again, nothing happened - no holster was found - and it is back to iron sights now. Still, scoped - it was like a rifle - so different from the 4"! Now, needing protection in the woods - get the 4".

It is uncanny - the 2" additional barrel inches really help. The combo did make a 'rifle-like' affair. Sharing the exact same hammer, trigger, and lockwork with the 4" helps. This time of year, both sport wood grips - and are my .44 Special/Russian plinkers.

Stainz

northslope · #23 05-07-2009, 09:16 AM

I backpacked a couple of times with my 629 Classic 6.5". The weight wasn't really the problem for me -- I was carrying 35 lbs of stuff on my back anyway -- but rather the holster location (under and just below my backpack hip belt) started to rub a hole in my thigh.

I've since wised up and carry my 629 Trail Boss "tanker style" across my chest.

--Neill

piebiter · #24 05-07-2009, 10:02 AM

+1 on a crossdraw carry. I carry my 6" model 629-1 or my 6" model 57 in a Bianchi Cyclone crossdraw belt holster. Although sometimes I do use a Bianchi Ranger shoulder rig.

1x2 · #25 05-07-2009, 10:58 PM

AgentSmith,

My rig is the same style as JDanley's, except that it hangs higher on my chest and I use a full-flap holster. It slides under my armpit or around on my back if I really want it out of the way. I carried a 629 Light Hunter (7 1/2" bbl including the muzzle brake) for some years without effort, but then, I have the frame for it- 5'10", 150 lbs. As I sold it, this year I'll be carrying a 7 1/2" Ruger Redhawk in the same holster.

It goes fishing with me every weekend; hike a couple miles in, fish, hike a couple miles out- no issues.

1x2

Vanilla Gorilla · #26 05-09-2009, 01:59 AM

I carry my 6 inch 29 in a El Paso Saddlery Crosshair. When off wandering the woods and camping, I'm either carrying the 29 or a 5 inch Model 27, and neither one really bothers me. BTW, I'm 6'2 and 245 (down 25 pounds!

) and it's not an issue to me at all.

Some say the size is a problem, but I don't see it. Some say the weight is, but I carried a 1911 Operator and 2 spare mags for several years until recently going to the M&P. A good belt makes all the difference in the world, there.

Down South · #27 05-09-2009, 07:04 AM

I have a 629 Classic w/5" barrel that I mounted a UltraDot on. I carry the revolver in a Bandoleer holster and it works well.

HDS · #28 01-20-2010, 04:38 AM

I don't see a big problem if you go with a crossdraw holster.

buckeyeshooter1 · #29 01-20-2010, 02:46 PM

I carry mine crossdraw in a Bianchi 111 crossdraw. It is comfortable sitting and out of the way if you are working outdoors or carrying a rifle.

Krull · #30 01-20-2010, 04:21 PM

*shakes head*

I'm not gonna insult anybody here,but all the cries of "it's soooooo heavy!!" reminds me of the knife community,there they say the same of a pocket knife...that's all of nine ounces

Anyway,I strong side carry a 629-1,two speed loaders,24rds of ammo in pouches and a fifteen inch Kukhri any time I set foot out the door.

no problems on my end.

Evil One · #31 01-20-2010, 07:14 PM

If weight and positioning of the gun are an issue... a tanker style like a Guides Choice are what I would suggest. I carried my 6" 629-1 in a Bianchi X15.

Jim

Snowbandit · #32 01-20-2010, 07:55 PM

I have 3, 4, & 6 1/2 inch barrel .44's here and the only one that ever gets out of the house anymore is the 4-inch. There is no way I would even consider dragging that 6 1/2 gun around if I didn't have to. You also mentioned the gun you were looking at was ported? That alone would be enough for me to put it in the back of the safe and forget I even owned it. Go hunt down a Mountain Revolver or Mountain Gun for everyday carry. You'll be glad you did.

phils · #33 01-21-2010, 12:43 AM

I am only 5'9" and have had no problem carrying a 6" M629 in hip or cross draw holsters. However I do prefer a cross draw holster for long term comfort.
A shoulder holster is good too, but not in hot weather.
Go for that 629.

skeete · #34 01-21-2010, 04:07 AM

I have carried a 6.5" 629 in a Roy Baker pancake holster on a 2 1/2" gun belt with speed loader set and some other items and I find it uncomfortable on long extended hikes. I like the velocity/energy of the longer barrel and the Garrett rounds when in bear country but I finally had it and bought a 329PD and down loaded it with Remington Express 240 SP's. While the 329 is NOT a fun gun to shoot it is a lot more fun to carry. I do find myself praying I only run into a small bear

I carry it in a Kramer horse hide pancake and it is so comfortable it is my CCW gun. I think a lot depends on how long you are going to carry it. I wonder why S&W does not make a 6" 329?

Evil One · #35 01-21-2010, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skeete

I wonder why S&W does not make a 6" 329?

http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore...L%20Hunter.pdf

Jim

borntoraisehogs · #36 01-24-2010, 02:43 AM

I wear my 6 1/2 on my belt quite a bit . Works great on horse or atv . I have to take it off when getting in a vehicle .

smithman · #37 01-24-2010, 04:50 AM

I carry a 6" 629-4 into the hunting woods in a flap holster with no trouble.

devildog66 · #38 01-24-2010, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AgentSmith

I've been looking around for a nice 629 4" or 5" with no luck at all. I'd prefer not to do the "internet" thing this time.
Well, I found a 629 Pre-Lock 6.5" Power Port model like new for a decent price.
I planned on carrying this as a woods gun on foot, and on the 4-wheeler, etc.
However, I'm apprehensive about the barrel length and weight making it too uncomfortable to carry. FWIW, I'm only 5'10" 210#, 34" waist, not a "big guy" by any means.
Any advice appreciated.

I do carry a 629-3 6" in a Simply Rugged pancake holster with the inside out straps for added versatility of IWB or OWB. Riding in the car with a 6" barrel is noticeable and I wouldn't want to travel cross country with that strapped on in IWB mode but I have spent a day in a tree stand with it OWB and no issue. I am, uh, squattier (okay, built like a bridge troll) than you at 5'6" 195 and comfort is fine with the revolver. I would check out the Chesty Puller rig offered by SR as an alternative.

Good luck!

NE450No2 · #39 02-20-2010, 01:14 AM

I carried a 6.5" Mod 29 for several years as a work gun, on and off duty.

Off duty I carried it Mexican style inside the pants. This was back in the day, before quality IWB holsters were avialable. The long barrel kept the gun from falling out of your pants, the cylinder riding above your belt.

Even later when I carried a 4" on duty, I still carrried the 6.5" off duty as it was more comfortable and secure, until I got my first Milt Sarks IWB holster for a 44 Mag.

Then I learned to always buy my pants 2" bigger in the waist to allow for the gun, and holster, IWB.

Now I would never carry a handgun IWB with out a quality holster... Now WE know better...

Now I even have an IWB holster especially for a 6.5" Mod 29 that positions the cylinder just above the belt, pretty slick [De Santis No 46].

In the woods I have carried it in a Safariland Hi Rise strong side holster or a shoulder holster. It does take time to get used to a shoulder holster, but once you do they are very handy. I wore one every day for several years.

Later, I found that a cross draw belt holster, gives the best access to a handgun for civilian sporting purposes, everything considered.

Now I most always carry my 4" 44 Mag, my FA 475, of my 6.5" 44 Mag in one.

With a cross draw it is very easy to carry when sitting as in a vehicle, ATF, Horse, Boat, Snomobile or just sitting on the ground while hunting, and still have ready access to your gun.

Most of the time, I carry a 4" 44 Mag in a De Santis dual Angle Hunter in the cross draw position when in the field.

ScottJ · #40 02-20-2010, 01:21 AM

I haven't gotten out into the deer woods in ages. I mostly fish these days and I typically pocket carry my Ruger.

But when I did deer hunt I carred my 629 6.5" classic in a Bianchi 5BHL. It works much better with a 2.5" wide, double-thick belt than the flimsy 2.25" belts you find in most clothing stores.