i am looking to pick up this revolver but i need some more information that I am having a tough time finding. when were they made, if it was over multiple versions such as 629-4 629-5 or 629-6, would they have the endurance package, can they handle full house loads, how durable is the laser etching on the cylinder and will it wear off easily from repeated holstering, etc... I would appreciate any insight on this model that anyone can lend, and it would be great to hear from people who own it as well. Also, does it have the IL?

New guns have the IL. I have a friend who owns a Backpacker and likes it. I have the 629PC which is a 2 5/8" gun, and it handles fairly heavy loads better than I do. I have no clue about the etching or its durability in reference to holster wear.

629s are 629s, they are pretty durable but not as robust as something like a Ruger Redhawk. They'll tolerate a lot, but they are tools and tools do wear out over time with repeated use.....or abuse.

thanks, the other revolver i am considering is the ruger super redhawk alaskan. but if i go with the alaskan i cant decide whether to go with the 44 or 454, it is going to boil down to what has more readily available ammo if I go with the ruger.

As a dealer, new Ruger 454 Alaskans are near impossible to get. I have new ones in .44 MAG.

A few 454's are going for $1100-$1200 on Gunbroker.

I like Smith's, but these Rugers are built like tanks! And better quality than the current S&W Production guns.