The 44 Magnum (29-2 and earlier variations) is known to have been produced with barrel lengths: 3 1/4 inches, 3 1/2 inches, 4 inches, 4 1/2 inches, 5 inches, 5 1/2 inches, 6 inches, 6 1/2 inches, 7 1/2 inches, and 8 3/8 inches. The photo below shows a Model 29-2 with a barrel length of 7 1/2 inches (only one reported by collectors). Click on the photo for a closer look.
Richard...The Model 29-2 with a 7 1/2-inch barrel was made for Keith Perks, owner of Springfield Firearms, Cornwall, England. Springfield Firearms was the company that distributed S&W products in the United Kingdom. This engraved revolver was carried in his personal luggage along with a Model 53, blue/nickel finish, Class "C" engraved, and a Model 39. The invoice is dated October 15, 1966. Mr. Perks ordered and received many special S&Ws over the years. When England essentially outlawed the personal ownership of handguns and firearms in general, Mr. Perks was able to return many of his special guns including a Model 41 with a nickel finish and McGivern front sight, to the United States via the company owned by S&WCA Founding Member, Bill Orr (G. T. Distributors). Bill then sold many of them to Ray Brazille and I purchased several from him. The revolver pictured is in another collection, but I still have a custom engraved and inlaid with gold 29-2 that was made for Mr. Perks in late 1965. It was my first 44 Magnum with factory gold inlays.
