Buzzsaw
Member
6" barrel, why does there seem to be a large "value" spread between the 2 models?
Model 29-2 vs. 29-3
- Thread starter Buzzsaw
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The -2 was the last of the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder guns except for a few that had one or the other feature and was perceived as being of higher quality by collectors.
I've got 29s both -2s and a -3, and I think they're both great. My -3 has very nice fit and finish, beautiful gun. There is some discussion on the durability of the -3s compared to the -2s. You'd have to shoot it a lot to see issues, and even then, it's an easy fix. The -2s can also get shot loose, the 44 mag is a powerful cartridge. S&W put out an enhancement that solved the issue with the -3s.
I really think the rap on the -3s is much a do about not a lot, and most of it stems from the -3 being the first m29 without the pinned/recessed treatment. Still a high quality, no MIM, no lock Smith. That said, you can get them for a little better price, so there is an up side...
I really think the rap on the -3s is much a do about not a lot, and most of it stems from the -3 being the first m29 without the pinned/recessed treatment. Still a high quality, no MIM, no lock Smith. That said, you can get them for a little better price, so there is an up side...
If your -3 is is fairly good shape and still tight, you would go broke trying to wear it out with 240 grain magnum loads, now Buffalo bore, or those 300 grain loads that would wear it out a little quicker, but than again they would wear anything out a little quicker.
DocB
Member
The endurance package was introduced with the -3, but I've heard that not all of them have it (only the later ones). . .same with the 629-3. All of the -4 guns have the package actually making them superior to the earlier models. One could conclude that the better guns are the later guns without the pinned and recessed features. So, why would anyone pay more for the earlier guns that had problems. You want to hit the window in the early to mid 1990's where you get the package but still no MIM parts and no lock.
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