Air Lites - Your Thoughts?

[BRush]

I got this Model 329 44 Mag some time ago to use as a backpack gun for hikes into bear country. The idea of a light big bore gun appealed to me and it is a great backpack companion. But I haven't shot it much as I don't need to for its intended purpose, and, frankly, its the last gun I'd pick-up for a fun day of shooting - even with light 44 Special loads. I know the lock is a minus, but what do you people think about these Air Lite Models?

 

[SAFireman]

I carry an Airlight model every day....I shoot it at every range session (not more than 10-15 rounds at a time). They are great for their intended purpose. Enjoy yours and hope that you never have to use it.

 

[firearmsunlimited]

My summer carry gun is a 337 PD that is rated for +P ammo. I fire it at the range on a regular basis and have never experience any issues. I love it for it's light weight and compact 1 7/8" barrel. I'm sure your 329 is a handful with full charges loads and it certainly wasn't intended to be a range gun.

 

[Pepi4]

638 in my pocket 90 percent of the time. Just love this little fellow.

 

[CWH44300]

I love my pair. I think they are the best N frames for every day use. My only complaint are the sights they are lacking for extreme Precision. One of my revolvers has digested aprox 1500 rounds with no issues. Like I said I love'em. There's a member named dla who did a nice piece on the 329.

 

[colt_saa]

I have about a dozen Scandium framed revovlers now. I think it is one of the greatest advancments in revovler rpoduction in recent years. Here are a few images. I pick up my 357NG tomorrow

 

[nogoodnamesleft]

I certainly like them, but you're absolutely correct in saying its the last gun you'd pick up for a fun day at the range. I've never shot more than 30 rounds through my 329PD with out having to switch to a smaller caliber ... It's not so much about being recoil shy, but the gun feels like it just wants to jump out of my hand.

But as another member previously stated, it's an incredible weapon for its intended purpose ....

But imho, kicks like a *******' mule!!!

 

[dla]

I got this Model 329 44 Mag some time ago to use as a backpack gun for hikes into bear country. The idea of a light big bore gun appealed to me and it is a great backpack companion. But I haven't shot it much as I don't need to for its intended purpose, and, frankly, its the last gun I'd pick-up for a fun day of shooting - even with light 44 Special loads. I know the lock is a minus, but what do you people think about these Air Lite Models?

The 329pd is the best packing revolver for dealing with bitey/scratchy critters. And I actually like shooting it although 100 rounds of 270gr @1150fps does leave my hand hurting. My plinkers are 240gr @900fps and I can shoot those all day.

A lot of guys like big chunks of steel - but I don't. I'm tired of my trousers hitting the ground when I loosen my belt. So I really appreciate the light weight of the 329 and I'm willing to deal with the nasty recoil to gain proficiency. This is a revolver that goes with me, instead of sitting in the safe.

S&W329pd Information

 

[pesty3782]

325pd

I have a 325 PD that I love. 6 rounds of 45acp in a short barrel gun, what is not to like : )


Tony P.

 

[photoman]

I've owned two and sold both. To me they are too light for a gun that big. Just didn't feel right. I think with a stainless steel cylinder they would be just about right.

 

[ARMinSC]

I have a 442 and I love it. I carry it in the pocket alot. I shoot it at the range and it's a fun little gun. I wouldn't buy a gun I couldn't enjoy shooting enough to become proficient with. I can't imagine a .44 mag is any fun in a light gun, I don't enjoy it in a 4" steel gun.

 

[imashooter2]

Love my 360. It's a great pocket gun. I can't see the point in a belt carried weapon.

 

[Alx]

I have a 325 PD that I love. 6 rounds of 45acp in a short barrel gun, what is not to like : )


Tony P.

I love my Smiths, but this trumps a revolver ....
.45acp x6 round magazines, double action only, rotating barrel, low felt recoil, alloy frame, fast reloads, narrower profile.

 

[photoman]

I've heard the Beretta DAO triggers are really nice.

 

[Road Rat]

For an emergency, occasional use gun; drop in a jacket or purse Just-In-Case - or for your purpose - they might be fine. However, one is never going to do a lot of practicing with it!!

 

[SlickRick]

I just shot my new pd360 and love it. I started out with 129gr. 38+p first and then 158gr. 357magnum which was a hand full. To my surprise the gun was accurate out to 20 yards. For some reason the magnums were more accurate than the .38's. It's my new ankle gun!

 

[Alx]

"" However, one is never going to do a lot of practicing with it!! ""
????? I disagree, I practise with the DAO trigger more than the SA. ( all four of my Berettas are D, and the only semi-auto SA/DA I have is a Walther P1). It's better training for holding the gun steady, and pulling the trigger without upsetting aim. Most deadly situations will not involve pulling back the hammer, and a smooth, even, long-pull DAO trigger is the safest configuration ... except for those that carry the cocked-locked 1911, or Glocky guns. For those that have DAO revolvers, its the only way we can practise, eg. the 40, 640, 38, 638, 940, 340, etc. and for the 49/649, it's important to have instinctive control with the DA trigger.

 

[remat457]

I have a 386sc AirLite that I like alot. Unless I am shooting full power magnum. Ouch.