Rammer Jammer
Member
Another vote for a 629 or any other 44 Magnum for all the reasons already stated in favor for the caliber.
S&W 610 or S&W 629
- Thread starter klhender
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Bullzaye
US Veteran
Hmm...a lot of varying opinions. Not terribly surprising.
As others have said, it really depends on your main purpose/use for this revolver.
It sounds to me as if you are just looking for a nice S&W revolver to add to your stable, without any definitive role for it to fulfill. So, assuming that my presumption is more-or-less correct...I would offer this:
I have the first variant of the 610, a 5 in. barreled, unfluted cylinder, made around 1990-92. I also have a couple 29/629s. One of them is post-lock. So...a couple considerations. First, if you break out an N frame to show off to people, they're going to expect to be seeing a .44 Magnum. Yes, there are other calibers to be found in an N frame...such as .44 Spl, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, 10 MM, .357 Magnum, and perhaps some others. But...most people will associate the N frame with the .44 Mag.
So...if you pull out an N frame, others might be disappointed to see that it's not a "Dirty Harry" gun. Or, more savvy S&W enthusiasts *might* be pleasantly surprised to see the less common 10 MM.
Also...are you looking to get a currently available model, with the IL? Or will you be wanting to find an earlier pre-lock version. IMO, if you're looking for a real addition to your collection, one that will enhance it, and likely appreciate in value...you'll want to look for a nice pre-lock version, hopefully in the best condition possible, with original box and accessories. In this case, I'm presuming you'll only be shooting it very casually, and not a lot of rounds...so the cost/availability of ammo is not really a large factor. Nor is the capability/utility of the caliber an issue either. So...purely as an addition to a collection, the .44 is probably more iconic.
The first variant of the 610 is also rather sought after, so amongst S&W afficionados, the 5 in. M.610 from the early 90's can be very cool. To be honest, the desirability of any model may be very contingent on the barrel length/dash number. Of course, as the desirability of any given model rises...so does the price. Also, purely as an addition to a collection, early blued models (in pristine condition) may be slightly more desirable, in the eyes of a collector. (Blued is not an option for the 10 MM.) Obviously...opinions will vary.
If, however...you're looking to add a nice S&W, which will also be a useful shooter, for recreational use, target shooting, hunting, and/or self defense...you'll probably be better served by a newer model with the IL. I say that only because they are generally less expensive...I think(?). Of course, you might locate a nice, slightly worn older pre-lock for similar money, which...assuming that it's mechanically sound, would be preferable.
So, as a shooter, as others have said...the choice of caliber will be dependent on your primary purpose, and also to some extent, on whether or not you reload, or are planning on reloading. For target shooting/self defense, I would opt for the 10 MM. For SD, the use of moon clips, and the ability to practice with less expensive .40 S&W ammo is another plus for the 10 MM. For hunting or self defense in the great outdoors, I'd probably go with the .44 Magnum. If you're using commercial ammo, the 10 MM is less expensive, if less common. But, if you buy in quantity online, availability isn't really an issue. If you want to be guaranteed of being able to walk into an average gun shop and finding a box of ammo...obviously .44 Mag is the better choice.
One last comment. As others have mentioned, depending on your actual intended usage, there are other models which you may want to consider. Even in the N frame, there is the gorgeous (and expensive) early Model 27, plenty of relatively affordable and very useful M.28s, the later very nice M.627 with 5 in. barrel and unfluted cylinder, the Model of 1988/1989 M.625 in .45 ACP, and the M.625 in .45 Colt. Moving away from the N frames, the M.586/686 are exceptional revolvers...big enough to tame full house .357 loads, but more "carryable" than M.627s. And the M.19/66...much easier to carry, and while more of a handful and not quite as durable as the larger L & N frames, perfectly adequate for a lifetime of reasonable Magnum usage.
So...I feel as though I've rambled on too long, and not provided much *solid* insight. So, I guess I'll close with the abrupt, no-frills answer which you seemed to be seeking. I *love* my 10 MMs...I have 2 Glock 20s, the 610, and I'd dearly love to find a 1066 or 1076. BUT...the unfortunate truth is that the future of 10 MM is uncertain. The .44 Magnum will obviously be around for a long time. So, if you wish to know that ammunition will remain available...I'd get the .44 Magnum.
Best of luck! Don't rush...enjoy the hunt.
As others have said, it really depends on your main purpose/use for this revolver.
It sounds to me as if you are just looking for a nice S&W revolver to add to your stable, without any definitive role for it to fulfill. So, assuming that my presumption is more-or-less correct...I would offer this:
I have the first variant of the 610, a 5 in. barreled, unfluted cylinder, made around 1990-92. I also have a couple 29/629s. One of them is post-lock. So...a couple considerations. First, if you break out an N frame to show off to people, they're going to expect to be seeing a .44 Magnum. Yes, there are other calibers to be found in an N frame...such as .44 Spl, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, 10 MM, .357 Magnum, and perhaps some others. But...most people will associate the N frame with the .44 Mag.
So...if you pull out an N frame, others might be disappointed to see that it's not a "Dirty Harry" gun. Or, more savvy S&W enthusiasts *might* be pleasantly surprised to see the less common 10 MM.
Also...are you looking to get a currently available model, with the IL? Or will you be wanting to find an earlier pre-lock version. IMO, if you're looking for a real addition to your collection, one that will enhance it, and likely appreciate in value...you'll want to look for a nice pre-lock version, hopefully in the best condition possible, with original box and accessories. In this case, I'm presuming you'll only be shooting it very casually, and not a lot of rounds...so the cost/availability of ammo is not really a large factor. Nor is the capability/utility of the caliber an issue either. So...purely as an addition to a collection, the .44 is probably more iconic.
The first variant of the 610 is also rather sought after, so amongst S&W afficionados, the 5 in. M.610 from the early 90's can be very cool. To be honest, the desirability of any model may be very contingent on the barrel length/dash number. Of course, as the desirability of any given model rises...so does the price. Also, purely as an addition to a collection, early blued models (in pristine condition) may be slightly more desirable, in the eyes of a collector. (Blued is not an option for the 10 MM.) Obviously...opinions will vary.
If, however...you're looking to add a nice S&W, which will also be a useful shooter, for recreational use, target shooting, hunting, and/or self defense...you'll probably be better served by a newer model with the IL. I say that only because they are generally less expensive...I think(?). Of course, you might locate a nice, slightly worn older pre-lock for similar money, which...assuming that it's mechanically sound, would be preferable.
So, as a shooter, as others have said...the choice of caliber will be dependent on your primary purpose, and also to some extent, on whether or not you reload, or are planning on reloading. For target shooting/self defense, I would opt for the 10 MM. For SD, the use of moon clips, and the ability to practice with less expensive .40 S&W ammo is another plus for the 10 MM. For hunting or self defense in the great outdoors, I'd probably go with the .44 Magnum. If you're using commercial ammo, the 10 MM is less expensive, if less common. But, if you buy in quantity online, availability isn't really an issue. If you want to be guaranteed of being able to walk into an average gun shop and finding a box of ammo...obviously .44 Mag is the better choice.
One last comment. As others have mentioned, depending on your actual intended usage, there are other models which you may want to consider. Even in the N frame, there is the gorgeous (and expensive) early Model 27, plenty of relatively affordable and very useful M.28s, the later very nice M.627 with 5 in. barrel and unfluted cylinder, the Model of 1988/1989 M.625 in .45 ACP, and the M.625 in .45 Colt. Moving away from the N frames, the M.586/686 are exceptional revolvers...big enough to tame full house .357 loads, but more "carryable" than M.627s. And the M.19/66...much easier to carry, and while more of a handful and not quite as durable as the larger L & N frames, perfectly adequate for a lifetime of reasonable Magnum usage.
So...I feel as though I've rambled on too long, and not provided much *solid* insight. So, I guess I'll close with the abrupt, no-frills answer which you seemed to be seeking. I *love* my 10 MMs...I have 2 Glock 20s, the 610, and I'd dearly love to find a 1066 or 1076. BUT...the unfortunate truth is that the future of 10 MM is uncertain. The .44 Magnum will obviously be around for a long time. So, if you wish to know that ammunition will remain available...I'd get the .44 Magnum.
Best of luck! Don't rush...enjoy the hunt.
cmj8591
Member
True enough but you shouldn't be buying either of them as a beginner gun if your goal is to actually learn how to shoot. If you haven't developed some kind proficiency already you're going to have a hard time with any of these cartridges including the 40. If you are just looking for soft loads and don't want to reload, there is the 44 special for the 629, which I would argue is softer than a 40. Just my opinion, but you should have a lot of trigger time with 22's and 38 wadcutters under your belt before you even start looking at either one of these.
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Bullzaye
US Veteran
Unless I'm mistaken...I didn't get the impression that the OP was a "beginner". He says he has other guns, mostly Glocks and Rugers, if I recall. And, he says he already shot his friend's 629 & 610. So, he has experience with handguns, perhaps already owns some Magnum Ruger revolvers, but he wants a S&W now. And, he's fired these guns, so he has a notion of what he's getting involved with.
Ordinarily, I would say your advice is sound. It still is...but I'm not *sure* if it's quite as applicable to this situation.
Liking them both, my preference is the 610. 10 mm is a good round and the moon clips make a very fast reload. Recoil is more manageable in my experience as well.
Here is a picture.
Either would be a good choice.
Here is a picture.
Either would be a good choice.
If you're just looking to add "a revolver", I'd go with a K or L frame 357, just because it is so versatile and is the classic revolver of all time, pretty much.
If you want big-bore, then the 629 because the 44 Mag is the classic big-bore, and you don't want to be *required* to use moons.
Unless you love the 10mm and want ammo-compatibility.
If you want big-bore, then the 629 because the 44 Mag is the classic big-bore, and you don't want to be *required* to use moons.
Unless you love the 10mm and want ammo-compatibility.
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m657
Member
IF you're not confused enough yet, and perhaps might become a reloader, don't overlook the marvelous 41 Magnum. A whole stable of S&W N-frame revolvers in a double handful of calibers and barrel lengths, all to bring pleasure and satisfaction to your revolver needs.
At one point, I had a little collection of the mighty 629s in barrels 3/4/6/8-3/8" at the same time. They all had favorite loads and all provided a different sense of target accuracy and sensory feedback. Despite geezer vision, I recently developed a load for my iron sighted long barrel, capable of golf-ball accuracy at 70' from the bench, in 10 out of 12 shots.
Betcha won't want to stop at just one, whatever your first choice may be.
At one point, I had a little collection of the mighty 629s in barrels 3/4/6/8-3/8" at the same time. They all had favorite loads and all provided a different sense of target accuracy and sensory feedback. Despite geezer vision, I recently developed a load for my iron sighted long barrel, capable of golf-ball accuracy at 70' from the bench, in 10 out of 12 shots.
Betcha won't want to stop at just one, whatever your first choice may be.
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CJSmith
Member
I know the comment isn't in response to the market price but that may be one thing to consider if under a budget restriction. I don't have anything to add about the caliber comparison but those pre-lock 610's sure demand a high price. The 629s seem to be much more readily available and at a lower price on the secondary market if strictly considering pre-lock guns.
Like others have alluded to in many posts, questions like this lead to one buying both guns at some point. Need ain't got nothing to do with it. Good luck.
If you do not reload and are not rich - get the 610 and fire .40 S&W out of it.
If you do reload - get whichever floats your boat. You'll probably wind up with both eventually if you become a revolver guy.
If you are in the market for a first revolver I suggest you look at the following:
617 - for lots of 22lr plinking fun.
686 or 627 - .357 Mag goodness that also fires .38 Special.
625 - if you already have a .45ACP pistol, this is a fine .45ACP revolver that uses the same ammo.
If you do reload - get whichever floats your boat. You'll probably wind up with both eventually if you become a revolver guy.
If you are in the market for a first revolver I suggest you look at the following:
617 - for lots of 22lr plinking fun.
686 or 627 - .357 Mag goodness that also fires .38 Special.
625 - if you already have a .45ACP pistol, this is a fine .45ACP revolver that uses the same ammo.
Liking them both, my preference is the 610. 10 mm is a good round and the moon clips make a very fast reload. Recoil is more manageable in my experience as well.
Here is a picture.
Either would be a good choice.
Having my left hand in a cast, (I am right-handed) I just got to the point where I can reload my 610, using the moon clips. I don 't think I could it without using the clips.
Minor advantage of the 610.
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Who loads the moon clips for you?
There's a bunch of them already loaded.
Rammer Jammer
Member
The Yankee Marshall can be a goofy blowhard, but his summation of 44 Magnum/Special vs 10mm sums it up well.
[ame]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifDMZyExVqY&t=247s[/ame]
[ame]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifDMZyExVqY&t=247s[/ame]
Lots of good, solid, experienced advice so I'll give a short update on my background. I'm closer to 66 than 65 these days but I only started shooting about 15 years ago with my wife. You know the story.. wife is home alone while I traveled and the world's going downhill everyday…
We took a few shooting classes which I enjoyed, so I kept taking them. The best part however, is my wife can (and I believe will) defend herself if the need were there.
I own AND shoot the Glock(s): G17, G19, G20, G22, and G26, all are Gen 4's and all shoot very well. I also own AND shoot the Ruger(s): GP100, SP101, Redhawk (5.5"), and Super Redhawk (7.5") as well as 1 or 2 other 9mm's Pistols, a couple of rifles and a couple of shotguns.
I myself am more of a hiker than a hunter; I have a friend in Texas whose family has a nice-sized ranch with a pig problem. WOW – did that get under my skin... what a rush that was, sure made me feel alive. So, I may be leaning towards the 629, but, I do have a question?
I admit to liking big and heavy handguns. I've got my eye on a new 610 6.5" 10mm (wt. 50.1oz) and a new 629 6.5" (wt.48.3oz). Am I missing something, why is the 10mm a tiny bit more heavy than the 29 magnum??
Dealer is Vance Outdoors in Columbus, Ohio.
We took a few shooting classes which I enjoyed, so I kept taking them. The best part however, is my wife can (and I believe will) defend herself if the need were there.
I own AND shoot the Glock(s): G17, G19, G20, G22, and G26, all are Gen 4's and all shoot very well. I also own AND shoot the Ruger(s): GP100, SP101, Redhawk (5.5"), and Super Redhawk (7.5") as well as 1 or 2 other 9mm's Pistols, a couple of rifles and a couple of shotguns.
I myself am more of a hiker than a hunter; I have a friend in Texas whose family has a nice-sized ranch with a pig problem. WOW – did that get under my skin... what a rush that was, sure made me feel alive. So, I may be leaning towards the 629, but, I do have a question?
I admit to liking big and heavy handguns. I've got my eye on a new 610 6.5" 10mm (wt. 50.1oz) and a new 629 6.5" (wt.48.3oz). Am I missing something, why is the 10mm a tiny bit more heavy than the 29 magnum??
Dealer is Vance Outdoors in Columbus, Ohio.
The .44 charge holes in the cylinder are a bit larger, so more metal is removed. Look at a 10mm and a .44 cylinder and you will see.
Loyaljeeper
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Reading all the replies is why I own and love the 625.
The math doesn't add up, I know, but for some odd reason, the felt recoil using factory 10 mm S&B loads is actually less for me than with my 625.
Strange.
BTW, I love the 625 as well.
You may be forgetting to take into account the extra weight that is created be drilling chambers and bores that are only .401" in diameter as opposed to the 625's .451" diameter
That may be just enough extra metal to make it feel different
357 shooter
Member
If one is heavily invested in 10mm in various handguns and reloads for it I can see the appeal of it in a revolver. With the revolver one can use reduced target loads that would not even function in a semi and no brass chasing.
But the 44 Mag 629 Classic is what I've owned for nearly 20 years. It is not harsh to shoot with any magnum load I have used. It is easily the most accurate big bore handgun I have ever owned. I've not even began to try some of the 44 Special level loads yet. For me its the 629.
But the 44 Mag 629 Classic is what I've owned for nearly 20 years. It is not harsh to shoot with any magnum load I have used. It is easily the most accurate big bore handgun I have ever owned. I've not even began to try some of the 44 Special level loads yet. For me its the 629.
Just get the one that falls in your lap first!! Be an opportunist, like I have been for quite a few years. I have stumbled into a lot of my Smiths. Plus, you know you are going to want the other one anyway, at some point!!
