First Post Q:

[Texis]

Hi to all, first post. Recently corrected a 43 year ago mistake.. traded my 29-2. I found a clean one at a gun show and redeemed myself. Saved a few bucks as the wood is replaced, but I’m ok with that as I wanted a shooter. Currently working out the serial numbers, it’s an N gun. I have it currently pinned down to manufactured between 72-75.
However, there is a marking on the cylinder arm I can’t find any info about, anywhere! I’ve scavenged the inferwebs for days.
Large stamped “E14” does anyone have any idea what that would indicate? I will be ordering the Smith book, maybe something in there about the E14
Photo attached as I know we all like pics.
Thanks!

 

[TN_Raven27]

Welcome to the forum from TN! Another newcomer here.

Nice gun! That other marking is probably an inspector’s stamp. I have an “E16” on my 27-2. As I understand, other stamps could be production line #s used to keep fitted parts with the same gun as it moves through the process.

I’m just learning about all this myself. I’m sure the experts here will offer their input.

 

[Doc44]

E14 is a stamp made by someone who fitted the parts of your 29-2 or inspected it. Stamps like that are common on revolvers made in the 1970s.

Bill

 

[Texis]

Thanks and sorry for calling the yoke an “arm” lol. It was sorta hoping it had been upgraded to Endurance at the factory

 

[Retired W4]

Thanks and sorry for calling the yoke an “arm” lol. It was sorta hoping it had been upgraded to Endurance at the factory

At least you didn't call it a crane!! (C**t)

 

[TN_Raven27]

At least you didn't call it a crane!! (C**t)

Like I did

 

[JP@AK]

Your E14 is almost certainly a fitter's mark (as Bill wrote: "E14 is a stamp made by someone who fitted the parts of your 29-2"). It really doesn't mean a darn thing now. It just told QC who put the unit together.

 

[Hawg Rider]

Welcome to the Forum, and congratulations on finally getting around to replacing your 43-year old "mistake sale"! As you know, .44 Magnums and Model 29s are very popular here, and we have some Forum members with a veritable cornucopia of information about them. I experienced a similar situation to yours...but with a Model 57. Back in 1978 I purchased my first S&W handgun, a brand spankin' new blued 4" Model 57 in the mahogany presentation case. I actually wanted a "Dirty Harry" Model 29 but they were impossible to find at that time, so I settled on the .41 Magnum. It turned out to be an excellent and accurate revolver, and I really enjoyed shooting it and reloading ammo for it. Unfortunately, it was stolen the following year when my apartment was burglarized and all the thief left me was the presentation case. I don't know why, but for 45 years I never replaced it. Then, a couple of years ago I had an epiphany and decided to go on the hunt. I found a minty 4" nickel Model 57 of the same vintage at a local gun show for a fair price, and I brought it home. It's now a part of my N-frame family, and I still have my original presentation case for it.

 

[bananaman]

Welcome to the FORUM from Michigan! I have the same in a dash 3. Is fun to shoot with the right loads. Bob

 

[Texis]

The pistol I traded my original 29-2 for 53 years ago was a Colt Gold Cup 1911 and was stolen as well!! Haha what are the odds.
We always look back and have regrets about item we sold in our youth. Figured since I can’t get another 69 SS 396 4sp Chevelle… at least I can get another 29.
My last hunting trip pushed me over the edge. A wounded hog absorbed 4 rounds in the head from my 1911 and kept kicking and squealing… this will not do, time to find another 29.
I’m an avid hand loader and looking forward to enjoying the pistol.

 

[Texis]

Edit.. “43” years ago, fat fingers