A) Used, shooter grade 29-2, no box or papers

B) Like new 29-10 (SKU 150145) Classic with the internal lock, presentation box and papers.

Both are in the same price range. I am in California, so the 29-2 is not on the approved list, but I found a seller close by via Calguns.

I plan to shoot them every now and then.

I am inexperienced and could use some opinions to help me decide because time is running out!

Thanks

If the 29-2 is really worn (or well-used) and a new one is close to the same price, I'd opt for the new one, especially since you have the new gun warranty. It becomes more of a toss-up if the -2 is 97%; it would definitely be more nicely finished, and if you'll be using it lightly you'll probably never wear it out. Good luck in your decision.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

JMO, but I like 'em pinned & recessed.

California being California, the used shooter grade 29-2 is probably a bit overpriced. The 29-2 is a highly sought after collectible in today's marketplace driving the price way up.

The new 29-10 (I just bought one myself in NIB used condition) is the strongest 44 magnum action S&W has built. It will take a steady diet of hot magnum ammo. The 29-2 was made before the durability enhancement parts were added starting with the 29-3E and 29-4. Heavy magnum use in the earlier guns could allow the cylinder to rotate backwards. Definitely check the 29-2 carefully for a good, tight lock-up. My 29-10 is the most accurate of the S&W 44's I've owned (29-3, 629-5, 629-6 and the 29-10). The finish of the 29-10, while different than the olde S&Ws, is beautiful and well done.

Now for my actual opinion on which one to buy.

If the 29-2 is tight, has its original target stocks is 90% or better in finish and is visually attractive, I'd probably buy it. I just wouldn't pound a lot of really hot magnum ammo through the 29-2. Now, if the 29-2 has any issues and is somewhat homely- for the money I'd definitely get the new 29-10 and have a great gun that will look and shoot great for a long time.
The reason I bought my 29-10 is I couldn't find a nice older 29 in 95-98% condition that was priced within reason. I'm happy with my 29-10 and no longer own my other S&W 44 Magnums.

Like many others here, I am partial to the older guns so I know what I would do. If I found that the 29-2 needed work, I would either do it myself or hire it done. The end result would be a "shootable shooter."

But you may not want to go through the extra expense and headaches. It sounds like the 29-10 is a sure thing, if it is LNIB. It should be perfectly functional from day one and if it ever does have problems, S&W may put it right for little or no money.

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You're shy a few manners.

Great replies, thank you all. For what it's worth, I added a few pics of the 29-2. Cheers!

I have a 29-2 4" nickle I bought new in the 70's. Still one of the best guns I own. I like the looks of the your future blue 29-2. It may not have a warranty but I bet it shoots like a house on fire. You cannot beat a classic. IMHO.

I say get the 29-10 my new one with the loc shows no sign of problems. Nor does my new M57, my M58 and my new M24 with the locs also. They all seem good to go. The N frames are drying up here. I'd like to get another S&W 29-10 w/ 6 1/2" barrel in nickel next once my dealer gets in the new shippment. I been going after the blue and nickel finishes.

If I was at the gun counter, cash in hand and had these two to choose between....

First I'd inspect the older one. Would have to be 97%+ condition.

I'd then inspect the new one. First thing I'd look at is barrel cant. If there is none look down the sight too and look at barrel alignment. I think a few new ones are leaving the factory with misaligned frames threads. If the 29-10 was excellent....

I'd go with the 29-10. MIM and locks don't irk me. Remember that the N frame with the lock still has that classic pronounced curve of the back of the frame that the smaller frames don't have anymore.

My new 686+ is a gem so I have complete confidence that new Smiths can be excellent.

I very nearly bought a new 629 6" recently. It had fabulous fit and finish in all regards.

The left grip does ot appear to have the football cut as it should, so I don't know if the grips are original. Otherwise, you should give it a good check for used revolvers, ie endshake, side to side movement, push off, good carry up, barrel bulge, etc. The finish shows wear, but it appears to have a slight turn ring, so it may not have been shot much. If it all checks out, then you can make an informed decision.

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Richard Gillespie
FBINA 102

True the 29-2 lacks the Endurance Package.
Also true I'd never buy an IL gun.

I'd Buy the 29-2 or look for a 29-4 if your shooting LOTS of Magnums. No sense buying the lock from where I sit. IMHO

Emory

Well, my attempt at the 29-10 failed. I was outbid in the final hour. That leaves me with an opportunity to check out the 29-2 in person or find another NIB 29-10 online, which is doable. Finding a 29-2 on Calguns for a local sale will require more patience.

Given my inexperience, I am in no position to make an educated decision on a 30 year old used gun. As much as owning an earlier model 29 appeals to me, I think I'd better stick to something new.

Thanks for your comments.

While there are those out there that rattle like an old truck door, bear in mind that for the majority of 44 magnum purchasers out there, the guns are never shot much because a) ammo is expensive b) turns out it's more fun for most to own one than shoot it c) actually shooting it with magnums is punishing for the average shooter.

Much ado has been made about the endurance package. Unless you shoot literally hundreds and hundreds of hot magnum loads in them like the silhouette shooters who invented this 'problem', the average owner/shooter cannot afford enough ammo to loosen up a 29-2.

I have seen and handled at least a couple hundred or more 29's (owned at least a dozen over the years) and the biggest detraction I see to most used ones is to the finish from improper handling, cleaning, and storage. Mechanically they're usually fine.

I have seen one or two that were shot to death, but like I said, these guns digested hundreds and thousands of maximum loads from macho men who thought if you could read the headstamp after the third loading that the rounds weren't hot enough. A realistic assessment of just what you plan to do with it and how often you'll actually shoot it may cause the 29-2 to look better on the value side. I wouldn't trade one of my 29-2's for two 29-10's.

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Qui plantavit curabit

I have less experience than NFrameFred and have never seen a shot out 29.

Too bad you are in California.
I'd still hold out for an older gun.
It can't be that hard to find one.

Emory

These are great points. My sole reason for wanting one is it's a bucket list want. I grew up in the Dirty Harry era and begged Dad for one (it was about $250 then), but had to "settle" on a .357. I'll take it to the range a couple of times a month and fire six shots each time. That will be the extent of my use.

For the sake of learning the process, I should meet the seller at the local shop and take a look at it. It just may work out.

Another approach would be to buy a current production gun,get some experience shooting it while looking for an older model in excellent condition.You'll get a better idea of what barrel length and finish you prefer and when you sell the newer gun(if you do) you will find it cost little to own.Less the ammo,of course.

I think the positions are stated clearly by the people resonding to the post. But I'm an old 68 year guy and if it was a bucket list gun I'd get the 29-2 as that the clostest to the Dirty Harry gun as you can get for reasonable money.

I wouldnt give the IL model 29 space in my safe! Get the 29-2 and we wont have to read about all your negative post about the newer, lower quailty IL Smith. I (IMO) do not believe the price of the 29-2s is a reflection of scarcity or rarity. The ONLY (again IMO) reason the somewhat older Smiths including the model 29-2 inwhich you are pondering are bringing the price they do is exactly why you are pondering between it and the new one, people want the quailty and performance Smith used to be known for. Do yourself a favor and read all the complaints posted on this forum concerning newer Smiths, then dont support the lower quality standards they have lowered themselfs to. MAYBE if enough people stop buying the new guns they will re-concider their position in the market place and make the correct changes that really do need to happen. It doest matter (IMO) how you cut the cheese, knowbody is in love with that IL, and Smith knows this. Bottom line is you will never go wrong with any older Smith. I wouldnt buy a "shooter" grade 29-2 if I where you. I would look for a prestine 29-2, and shoot it once in a while, theres enough of them out there. Either way you wont loose out.

My mind is made up. No new gun, I will hold out for one from the period (1970s) in the best shape I can find. It's not the MIM parts or IL either. It's about nostalgia and bucket lists and only a Model 29 from back in the day will ever truly satisfy my needs.

Thanks again for taking the time to comment, it made me think and helped me reach a decision.