Classic series 29-10 experiences

[Smithbug]

I am considering buying a new 29-10. I was wondering what everyone's experience has been with them? I am kinda debating on whether to go new or look around for a 29-2. I know I can't go wrong with the older ones if they are in good shape but where I live a dash 2 is at least 300 more than a dash 10. That extra would buy a fair bit of ammo (I reload)

 

[Rpg]

I doubt there is a significant functional difference between the old and new models: either will shoot just fine.

If you plan on shooting a ton of max loaded 44 mag ammo, I'd buy the newer model. However, few folks shoot as much max loaded ammo as they imagine they might.

If you're going to expose it to rough conditions I'd get the -10. However, unless you live in Alaska and get out among the bears a lot, it's unlikely you'll actually carry your 44 very much. Much more likely it'll be transported to and from the range in a protective case and won't be exposed to inclement weather.

The 29-2 is more desirable than the -10: p&r, more desirable bluing and they don't make them anymore.

Then there's the lock.

The 29-2 will hold value better than the 29-10.

 

[cowboy4evr]

I have 2 , 29-10's , 4" and a 6.5" . I am happy with both . I also have a 629-4 in a 4" . I shoot the 4" a lot , 200-300 / range session from mild to wild hand loads . I shoot the actual " Keith " HG 503 , 245 gr swc in all loads . I cast and size to .431 . The later ones have the endurance pkg . If you don't shoot very many " wild " loads , the older ones will be fine . I like the experience of the hotter loads along with milder loads . Hence I got the later models . My 629 has the endurance pkg as well . It's stainless , hammer mounter firing pin and no IL . Regards, Paul

 

[Smithbug]

I plan on using it mostly for deer hunting and target shooting. I'm not one to load right up to max on any of my loads but it's nice to know that the -10s will handle them better. I have heard that the new production guns have had some quality issues and barrel alignment problems. I guess I don't want to drop a grand unless I know they are worth it. Though it sounds like they are good well made guns. I'm sure if I kept looking i could find people that have had issues. The locks don't bother me.

 

[cowboy4evr]

Check gunbroker to get an idea on prices . The 4" a always on there for around $800 , sometimes a bit less and sometimes a bit more . I just checked Buds . They have a 629 (stainless) 6.5" barrel , brand new for $751 . For a hunting hand gun that might be a better option so weather isn't a concern on your 44 . They have a 4" stainless for $784 . I have bought a number of the newer smiths the last 5yrs and have not had any of the issues others complain about . Maybe I'm just lucky , Regards, Paul

 

[Arm]

I have a 29-10 that has been problem free except for the grips which always seem to shift around. I've been shimming the grips with cotton cleaning patches....making progress. I really dislike the grips, too thin and, loose. Other than that, the revolver is great. I might add, very accurate but, heavy loaded 240 gr
bullets using H110 max, is quite a handful, LOL.

 

[SLT223]

I have both. They are both excellent. The new ones cannot take ammonia based solvents as it will damage the finish. That's not reason to avoid one since the market is flush with non ammonia based cleaners. EZOX is a great one! The Altamont grips on the new guns are too skinny to effectively distribute magnum recoil force. The old square butt grips fit the new 29-10 square butt frame, so you can use them.

The 29-2 will go up in value as long as it stays in good condition. If you are wanting a good looking, relatively economic shooter, then buy the newer gun with confidence.

 

[gfors]

I bought my 6.5" 29-10 Classic, because I wanted a good-looking "Dirty Harry" type of shooter, that could take the abuse of thousands of rounds of full house .44's. I had the already butter-smooth trigger lightened a bit. It is fairly easy for me to shoot it well, when I can control the adrenaline rush.
My thinking, at the time I bought it, was it will lose a little value initially, maybe a couple hundy, but then it will retain value. It's a Smith! I've already spent the difference on ammo. Besides, as the original owner, I'll happily send as many rounds as I can afford, down-range. My gun is covered, for the rest of my days.
Like others have said, the factory Altamonts aren't meant for shooting. Old school smooth targets work great.

 

[Smithbug]

Check gunbroker to get an idea on prices . The 4" a always on there for around $800 , sometimes a bit less and sometimes a bit more . I just checked Buds . They have a 629 (stainless) 6.5" barrel , brand new for $751 . For a hunting hand gun that might be a better option so weather isn't a concern on your 44 . They have a 4" stainless for $784 . I have bought a number of the newer smiths the last 5yrs and have not had any of the issues others complain about . Maybe I'm just lucky , Regards, Paul

I think that people generally get what they want. If they want problems they will have them and if they don't want them they get less of them. I am strongly considering a 629. I love stainless handguns and revolvers in particular. I would probably put wood on a 629 as personal taste. Then my 66-1 would have a big brother lol.

 

[Smithbug]

I bought my 6.5" 29-10 Classic, because I wanted a good-looking "Dirty Harry" type of shooter, that could take the abuse of thousands of rounds of full house .44's. I had the already butter-smooth trigger lightened a bit. It is fairly easy for me to shoot it well, when I can control the adrenaline rush.
My thinking, at the time I bought it, was it will lose a little value initially, maybe a couple hundy, but then it will retain value. It's a Smith! I've already spent the difference on ammo. Besides, as the original owner, I'll happily send as many rounds as I can afford, down-range. My gun is covered, for the rest of my days.
Like others have said, the factory Altamonts aren't meant for shooting. Old school smooth targets work great.

Some repro cokes would probably be nice on a -10. Or maybe some nice rosewood combats.

 

[DLWinner]

I have both. They are both excellent. The new ones cannot take ammonia based solvents as it will damage the finish. That's not reason to avoid one since the market is flush with non ammonia based cleaners. EZOX is a great one! The Altamont grips on the new guns are too skinny to effectively distribute magnum recoil force. The old square butt grips fit the new 29-10 square butt frame, so you can use them.

The 29-2 will go up in value as long as it stays in good condition. If you are wanting a good looking, relatively economic shooter, then buy the newer gun with confidence.

Wow. Did not know that about ammonia based cleaners. I think I cleaned mine once with Hoppes. I hope my finish will be ok.

 

[gfors]

All of these work well. Two sets S&W, one from a guy in Florida, on eBay.

 

[Mr.Harry]

There's a thread on this board right now - "how to inspect a factory NEW revolver". Worth giving it a read: I would have no misgivings at all about buying a new production gun. In fact, depending on application intended, and some other factors, I could see how a 29-10 might better serve your needs than a -2. I also agree with another poster who recommended a 629. But new or old stock, I greatly prefer giving the gun some hard scrutiny in my hands first. I would advise same. I guess i'm Saying you can end up with a duck either way - new or old, but if you know what to look for, you're probably going to end up with a winner.

 

[Capttjk1]

I have a 4" and a 6.5" 29-10. Both are great. No problems at all. Finish and functionality on both are perfect. I would highly recommend a -10.

 

[cowboy4evr]

I have used Remoil for yrs on my -10's and no ill effects on the finish . Safari Charlie is another good one and it clearly says , " no ammonia " . Of course Ballistol is a favorite with many . Regards , Paul