I was told that the newer model 29's are stronger steel and better construction than the older 29's. Just wondering if this is a true fact. If anyone knows it would be appreciated. Thanks

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Craig

Oh boy this should be fun! Seriously opinions will run the gamut on this, I feel post endurance pkg S&W 44's are the pinnacle of the platform as far as strength goes. But as with all other Smiths fit and finish on the newer guns pales in comparison to older ones. Personally I have ZERO use for new Smiths, with their cheapened MIM parts and that awful lock. My newest 629 is from 1993 and it'll do whatever I need a 44 to do, there's nothing made now that'll outperform the older model. New ones a waaaay over priced and IMO not as good as older models. Just my 2cents!

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Sie vis pacem parabellum

What does MIM parts mean?

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Craig

MIM= "Metal Injection Molding"

I don't want to get a lock, no lock or MIM vs Forged debate, but IMHO, any Smith 29/629 with the 'Endurance Package' is a very nice handgun.

Chris, I think you may have stopped the discussion when you used that "knows" word. But we all have our opinions!

Stronger steel, I would doubt. Better construction - that will start the proverbial food fight. No point in getting into that one, except to say the integral cylinder stop (or rather, the lack of a hole in that location) probably does help - but that is strictly JMHO. I don't have any proof.

One other thing the new guns probably do have that some might consider an advantage is their ability to better handle the loads with heavy bullets. I have heard about this but haven't got much experience myself since I gave up using anything heavier than 270-280 grains in my 29s many years ago. What I have heard about the new guns has not changed my mind.

Most experienced 29 shooters I know don't push their guns real hard. I am not interested in one myself, but if I really wanted to maximize the 44's potential, I would probably buy a Ruger single-action. If I tore it up, I wouldn't feel too badly.

I have always been quite happy with the 29, just as it was.

I have no complaints.

I purchased a new-production 629 a few months ago. I've test-fired it some and was pleased with its function and "feel". The cylinder closes with a satisfying "thunk", similar to my old Redhawk.

I have several Model 21s and 24s that see regular use. I only shoot the 629 when I feel the urge for some true, fire-breathing entertainment.

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Jaeger

An unarguable "Yes". As those of us who shoot decent amounts of .44 magnum will find out