I'm on the hunt for a model 29. Seems like I remember reading on here that the "dash-2" was the preferred dash. Is that correct, and why?
My first choice would be a 4", maybe 6". I might consider a stainless 629 also. Is there also a preferred dash with the 629? Thanks for any help...

If you plan to use it a lot, look for a 29-5, or later. They're not in the demand that the earlier guns are, so one should be available for less money, and it should hold up to magnum loads better than a similar gun without the engineering changes incorporated into the -5 version.

If you want something to admire, a 29-2 or earlier gun is what most folks are looking for. As to the why part, most people are fond of the recessed chambers in the -2 and earlier guns, but as a practical matter, this feature is more cosmetic than functional.

The 29-2 is the last model with the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder chambers that most collectors want so that is why they seem to be preferred. Like the poster above said if those aren't features required by you then the 29-4 included the enhanced performance package that streghtenned the revolver. Some late 29-3 had a 29-3E on them meaning they had the enhanced package.

I like the -2 and earlier. I don't like stainless, just leaves me cold. The N frame has to be fitted with square butt targets to fit me comfortably so that leaves out most of the later versions. Pinned and recessed is cool, that is a factor too.

If I were planning on shooting or hunting with a model 29, I would want a -6 or later. The -6 has the Endurance package that was introduced at the -3E revision as well as the longer stop notches introduced at the -5 and adds having the top strap drilled and tapped for scope mounting which is introduced at the -6 revision.

If we are talking about a 629, it would be the -4 revision.

If you want one to collect and look at, one that is most desirable to a collector, then you want a -2 or earlier in the model 29 or a no dash in the model 629.