S&W model 29. Which "-" number did they get predrilled for scopes?

[Couch-Commando]

Hello, I am considering getting a Smith and Wesson Model 29 for deer hunting. I'm considering the Model 29 for the following reasons; 1) I love blued guns with wood grips, 2) I'm a big fan of Dirty Harry, 3) I have recently learned that handgun hunting is allowed in Missouri during muzzleloader season, and 4) recently bought a vintage Winchester 94 in 44 magnum, so I'll have some cartridge commonality by getting a handgun in this caliber.



I know a 629 would be more practical as a hunting gun, but don't care. I love the look of a classic blued gun.



Anyway, I've been trying to read up on the many variants, and track prices on Gunbroker. My understanding from other posts on this forum (correct me if I'm wrong), is after a certain model (or dash number), all S&W revolvers come with pre-drilled for a scope. I carry a Glock 19 with a Trijicon RMR for defense, and am very good with red dot handguns. I hope to also put a red dot on my future hunting revolver. Obviously, if I choose a used gun, I don't want to butcher a classic vintage revolver. I'd prefer one modern enough to have the holes pre-drilled.



With that in mind, what dash number did this become standard on? And, given that those are more recent examples, is there anything that should cause me to prefer the older ones to a new production one? I'm considering used more because new ones appear to be in short supply.



Thanks!

 

[tlawler]

According to SCSW4, the -6 starting in 1993 introduced the drilled top strap.

 

[KINGOWOOD]

I have the 29-4 8 3/8" barrel which came factory with ring mounts milled. I am currently trying to track down a set of correct rings. If anyone has info or a lead, please let me know.

 

[LostintheOzone]

-4 and beyond. Also Classic models before that. Those would be the full lug models marked CLASSIC on the barrel. If you can see the top strap the sight bar should have a rounded front. That would indicate the factory drilled/tapped top strap.

I've also been interested in a 29 or 629 that would take a RDS plate. I put one on my 625-8 and the world is a better place now.

 

[Truckman]

It may be irrelevant, but I had a 629-2 that was predrilled for a Leupold base......Ben

 

[CH4]

I know my 29-5, 629-4 and 686-4 are factory drilled.

 

[75Vette]

The dash 6 version of the 29 is the one you'll be looking for. It still retains a forged trigger and hammer and has uniformed .429 cylinder throats which will greatly increase your accuracy when you're taking that big buck. The only downside is that the bluing process on these is more of a black than blue thanks to the EPA.I have a square butt (early) 8 3/8" and a round butt 6"er. Both wear a Burris FF3 and are great accurate shooters.
Of course any newer model 29 will suit your needs and be much easier to find.
Good luck on your search.

 

[The Gila Bender]

My 29-6 Classic full lug 6.5" and 629-4 standard barrel 6" (square and round butt) are drilled for optic. I assume that a standard barrel 6" 29-6 is out there waiting for you. I like the .429 cylinder throats.

 

[Narragansett]

I have a 29-5 that is drilled and tapped from the factory

 

[jcelect]

Rings

I have the 29-4 8 3/8" barrel which came factory with ring mounts milled. I am currently trying to track down a set of correct rings. If anyone has info or a lead, please let me know.

Sir, you are looking for the proverbial "hens teeth"! Those rings were made by Millet and appear to be the Millet Angle Locks on the market today! Wrong, the newer rings will not tighten down correctly!

The difference is in the clamping piece, on the lower end! I have seen the newer rings modified to work, but the modification leaves newly machined bright AL. showing on the rings!
jcelect

 

[Doc in Pa]

M29

I have the 29-4 8 3/8" barrel which came factory with ring mounts milled. I am currently trying to track down a set of correct rings. If anyone has info or a lead, please let me know.

I have a Leupold Duel Dovetail mount and rings on my m29 Heritage. They work fine. Look good also.

 

[75Vette]

I have a 29-5 that is drilled and tapped from the factory

Pete, you're dead on. The 29-5 Classic and Classic DX were the first D&T top straps in the 29 line up. I always love seeing that gun!

 

[Narragansett]

Pete, you're dead on. The 29-5 Classic and Classic DX were the first D&T top straps in the 29 line up. I always love seeing that gun!

Thanks Vette. It is my favorite, and probably most valuable piece.

I also think I want to say, that on a couple models, if you take the rear sight off, guard it with your life. Something seems to tell me that some of them are hard to replace if lost

 

[CH4]

Sir, you are looking for the proverbial "hens teeth"!

That's a fact!

 

[Joshwo1]

I have one 29-4 inherited from my grandfather when he passed.

 

[Joshwo1]

Another pic.

 

[murphydog]

The OP hasn't been back in close to two months...but the short answer is look for the rear sight leaf with the rounded front edge as a sign that any S & W revolver has been D & T.