29-2 advice sought

[bczrx]

Hello All,

I am going to be joining the 29-2 club in a bit. [just have to wait for california waiting period before I can bring it home.] I am picking up a 4" 29-2, but don't know year of manufacture- yet.

I have done some reading about the 'enhancements' added with the -3, -4 and -5 updates, so am aware I can't fire 'ruger only' loads through it. I am ok with that, as I have rugers if I want hotter loads.

My biggest question, though: is there a normal mainstream factory load that is 240gr [or less] that isn't marked +p and that I SHOULD avoid? Or, are most 240gr mainstream factory loads that are not +P ok in this?

My uses will be 99% range fun, and more focused on trigger control/accuracy than bowling pin impacts or anything looking for maximum pressure/power. I'd break out one of the Rugers for that. As a result, I don't think I need anything more than 240gr, and don't need anything lighter/faster either.

 

[A10]

Naw, you're good. Just remember the steady diet of hotter loaded stuff will increase wear. My personal favorite woods walking cartridge has been the 270 grain Hornaday loads. I usually shoot specials at the range though.

 

[stansdds]

There is no such thing as 44 Magnum +P. There are certain boutique ammo makers that offer a 44 Magnum +P, but there is no SAAMI specification for a 44 Magnum +P. In a pre-endurance package Model 29/629, I'd use full power magnum ammo loaded with bullets not weighing more than 250 grains and I would avoid any 44 Magnum ammo labeled as +P.

 

[alwslate]

Aluminum cased Blazer .44 mag ammo is probably on the light side of factory magnum ammo. I have two 4" 29-2s and I only shoot my mid range cast bullet hand loads in them. There are no real factory +P .44 mag loads. If I were you I would either load for it or try to buy mid range hand loads.

 

[robertrwalsh]

I have pumped more than a few standard full power .44 mags thru my 29-2 Dirty Harry special over the years. I don't do so any more, my hands won't take it. It is no longer the "fun" it used to be. The girls at the range at Barnwood will appreciate the lower boom level.

 

[Retired W4]

Shooting magnum loads out of a 4" or shorter 29/629 is definitely hard on my wrist, but I still do it now and then.