I want to buy a Model 629 with the 6 ½” barrel. My Dealer is going to bring one in for me. I understand they are available now without that silly built in lock. Is that right?

If so, do you have to specifically order one without the lock, or have they done away with the lock completely now and they all come without it?

I can't answer your question but it's the fiirst I've heard being able to buy new 629's without a internal lock

Well, if you haven't heard about it then I doubt it's true. I must have misunderstood what I was told. I thought S&W had done away with that lock on most of the revolvers. Maybe it was just some of the revolvers. Oh well, it's going to be a shooter, not a collectable, so I guess I can disable the lock and fill in the hole. That much I think you can do - right?

Hey I'm not the gospel on this stuff I've just have not heard of any except a few snub nose revolvers being produced without the IL. If it's true that they are dropping the IL you will hear a lot of cheers from this forum for sure. I'd wait and see what he brings in and if it's a new one with no IL be sure to let us know if it can be ordered that way.

Despite hopes, pleas, and prayers, the rumors of the demise of the lock (I think) are just wishful thinking. The Centennial configuration models are the only ones anyone has seen that are produced without locks in any numbers.

Your new 29 will require "the PLUG". The good news it's an easy fix and it just looks like a frame pin, only over the latch instead of under it. Nothing can be done about the "idgit arrow" showing the mentally challenged how to turn the lock . . . .

I don't know what a new 629 cost, but you could always buy an older model without the key lock. I picked up a 629-1 that looks factory fired only with box for $520 total. If you take your time you will find one.
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jimmyjoe has the answer for you. Join the rest of us in the hunt for the good S&Ws.

Dave

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RSVN '69-'71
PCSD (Ret)

There are plenty of 629's out there without the lock. I own over 50 Smith revolvers, none with a lock. Enough said.

Yeah, that may be the way to do it all right. I'm currently negotiating on a NIB 29-2 with the 8 3/8" barrel.

I know I could research this and find the answer, but being lazy I'll just ask you experts - WHEN did S&W start putting that silly lock on the revolvers. Obviously the trick is to only look at those made earlier.

Given how unhappy most real S&W fans are about that stupid lock, you'd think the LEAST S&W could do is take that dumb arrow off the side of the gun. Then people would have the option of plugging the hole and it wouldn't look too bad. Clearly they need some new blood in "Sales & Advertising". Or maybe go back to the old blood.

Far as I know still have locks, but they are easily removed.

S&W offers a handfull of J-Frame models without the lock, but that's it among their revolver line.
Denis