Since I was raised as a high volume shooter with a U.S. Marshall using a 29-2 4" blue, I thought I would reflect on my 30 year plus reunion with various .44 mag models.

First, let's address the "P&R" love affair. If you are an armchair collector, who admires the high polish blue of yesteryear, the -2's are nice. Pinned does not seem to make much of a difference to me and quite honestly, the recessed cylinder was a pain in the ***. Why? If you shot hundreds of rounds a session, the burnt powder crud would require a toothbrush clean out after 50 or so rounds. And what made matters worse, the residue would fall under the star ejector causing binding problems. Both the Marshall and I always said, removal of the recess would be a plus. But remember, we are shooters, not collectors.

Now as far as square versus round butt frame, I have tried both. Square butt fills the lower palm for 6" or longer barrel stability. After all, it was designed for one hand target shooting. On the other hand, the round butt 5" or less is sweet. My original 29-2 4" was converted that way when sold.

Enhanced versus standard? Properly loaded and well used 29's last almost forever. I shot the **** out of my 4" (200-400 plus rounds per week), and after years, it was like a Timex.

Today, everyone shuns the 6 series stainless steel that has mim parts and the evil lock. Well, it doesn't scare me, and I plan to make it my workhorse. Besides, it does carry a Lifetime Warranty, and like anything else, I'm sure plenty of easily replaceable parts are out there. Besides, there is more to life than blue.

Bottom line, I don't think I missed much. The M29 in any version is great.

I hear you, my older 29's and 629's sit there looking pretty while on my belt rides a 329pd and my shooting bag is full of -6s. Bottom line is I love them all.