Bear countty 629 build.

[M29since14]

I don't have any Alaskan experience so my comments are just that - comments. I would agree with the writer who said the handier gun might be around when something bigger and heavier is not. My other concern is that I don't believe too many people can really handle a .460 or .500 revolver. I'm quite sure I can't. I would take a 44 Magnum any day just because I still have some confidence in my ability to shoot it.

As to the mods, I also agree that the expense to chop an inch off and remount a sight is hardly worth it, but then you say it is just something you would like to have, so why not? I am not a big fan of 5-inch 44s based on my limited experience, but you may have a different opinion. And, you may not get to Alaska too many times. If that is what you want to take with you, I would do it.

Be sure to test your gun thoroughly with the 300-grain loads you plan to use. You don't want trouble with reliability. My own choice would be something just a bit lighter, but I don't have a lot of experience with 300-grain loads in modern guns. They were not good in my 29-2 and earlier models, and I gave up any interest in them long ago. I am not sure a bear pays much attention to bullet weight (as long as it is not unrealistically light for the caliber), but if it makes any difference in how your gun runs, you certainly may.

 

[team sidewinder]

I would vote for the 5" barrel and some S&W Tamer rubber grips ( better grip when wet ) if you don't already have them. I think the 5" is just about the perfect length ( not too long not too short ). IMHO the stainless you have is always best as far as being outdoors in who knows what kind of weather conditions for long periods of time.

And here I go again about the attributes of Garrett Cartridge Inc. 44mag ammo. The best ammo IMHO for bear country. What ever ammo, heavy cast 300gr or better bullets in controlable loads. Check out the Garrett Cartridge Inc. for more info on why this is good ammo for large, heavy boned, thick skinned critters.

Good luck and have fun. Let us know how it all comes out.

 

[team sidewinder]

Like my American Express card I never leave home without it.

 

[jspick]

I think the 5" barrel is the "perfect" barrel length.

A gold bead sight is good but won't it have to be on a partridge front sight? It so that might have a tendency to hang up drawin it out of a holster.

A heavy duty rear sight sounds good to me.

And X frame grips is a good idea, but not sure I would do it myself because of my hand size. I have already tried this.

Regulating a gun to a load--isn't that what adjustable sights are for?

Remember, a 44 is not a magical bear gun. It is a last ditch and handy to carry gun. Take pepper spray along. It is part of my everyday equipment with my 629.

Have fun and report back on your trip.

John

 

[Larry from Bend]

I changed from a 6" to a 5" 629 20 years ago. Mine is a Classic and I do carry it in the Bob Marshall, which is Grizzly country. I prefer a hip holster (mine's a Safariland) 'cause I often have a fishing rod in my hands and hip carry works better for me. I use a 3 layered nylon/plastic belt which makes all the difference.

Marshall, who owns Beartooth bullets, and I spent some quality phone time selecting a cast bullet for my needs. I use a 280 grain WFNGC, WW brass, WW WLP primers and H110 powder for 1235 fps.

If I were to make 1 addition to my revolver, it'd probably be a lazer sight or maybe changing out the present sights for tritium sights.

I once spent part of a long, moonless night chasing horses that had been run out of our camp by 2 Griz. Being able to see my sights better would have been a comfort.

 

[jspick]

You know Larry,

I live with grizzlies in my yard from spring to fall and I have never given a thought to using a lazer sight. Maybe it takes time for the light bulb to come on, but I do believe a lazer sight on my 629 AND my 870, altered for home bear protection, is going to have to be a must add to this year!

It make take a while, LOL, but your never to old to learn!! Thanks for saying that Larry.

John

 

[shadow1]

LOL, Looks to me like he's using his left hand to help keep his spincter shut.

LMAO! I needed that.

 

[amazingflapjack]

GF-Wow! I wouldn't want to be around when that Grizzly broke wind! And they complain about these spontaneous forest fires. What would Smoky the Bear say? Make mine a BMG. Flapjack.