Handled a 329 Night Gaurd today.

[TN RAT]

Larry's in Huntsville, AL has a 329 NG in stock, but this is all they currently have. They are still waiting for all the other models to arrive.

Overall I like the package, but would have to pass on owning one.

The matte finish is appealing, and the sights jump up to my eye and line themselves up with the faux Pachmyrs.

I love the weight but know that is going to hurt you. The goodyears would help, but are too large for my large hands. I can barely get my fingertip on the double action trigger.

It was the typical dry sounding action I have always seen on the Scandium frames.

I also looked at a 629-6 Backpacker in 3 inch with the lanyard ring. It was stainless, had a one piece barrel, and half lug. It was cheaper, and had a better feel to it so I would have to go with the Backpacker over the NG.

The NG was either $888 or $895 plus taxes, I don't remember which. That is much lower than I was expecting, but still more than many of your used prelocks.

I believe the 396 in the L frame would appeal to me a great deal more, but then the 696 would be an even better choice, and possibly cheaper to boot.

 

[TN RAT]

Larry's in Huntsville, AL has a 329 NG in stock, but this is all they currently have. They are still waiting for all the other models to arrive.

Overall I like the package, but would have to pass on owning one.

The matte finish is appealing, and the sights jump up to my eye and line themselves up with the faux Pachmyrs.

I love the weight but know that is going to hurt you. The goodyears would help, but are too large for my large hands. I can barely get my fingertip on the double action trigger.

It was the typical dry sounding action I have always seen on the Scandium frames.

I also looked at a 629-6 Backpacker in 3 inch with the lanyard ring. It was stainless, had a one piece barrel, and half lug. It was cheaper, and had a better feel to it so I would have to go with the Backpacker over the NG.

The NG was either $888 or $895 plus taxes, I don't remember which. That is much lower than I was expecting, but still more than many of your used prelocks.

I believe the 396 in the L frame would appeal to me a great deal more, but then the 696 would be an even better choice, and possibly cheaper to boot.

 

[GF]

The 329 NG is probably one of only a few new S&W I'd consider owning.
I took this picture of one at the NRA convention and the Night Guard series was the star of the S&W booth.

You stated my feelings too when you said, "The NG was either $888 or $895 plus taxes, I don't remember which. That is much lower than I was expecting, but still more than many of your used prelocks."
Maybe when they turn up on the used market...

 

[TN RAT]

Another thing the pic reminded me of was the target(somewhat) hammer. What a waste on this carry gun. A nice slender hammer would have been better.

If I ever decide to get one the grips have to go for something that fits my hand better.

Thanks for the pic.

 

[Marshal Tom]

I handled the .357 recently at a local shop in Grand Junction. I thought it was a bit bulky and that the rubber grips were thick and blocky. Very utilitarian. I did like certain aspects but it would not be for me

T

 

[packin357]

I finally got a 329 Night Guard and took it to the range. I was pleasantly surprised. I shot everything from 44 specials to heavy hunting magnum loads. Unlike the 360PD, it's a fun gun to shoot. I like it!

 

[sasu]

it's a fun gun to shoot.

Not surprisingly, because the 329PD is a fun gun to shoot, too.

 

[Cayoot]

Originally posted by packin357:
I finally got a 329 Night Guard and took it to the range. I was pleasantly surprised. I shot everything from 44 specials to heavy hunting magnum loads. Unlike the 360PD, it's a fun gun to shoot. I like it!

I had heard that the 329 Mnt Gun was brutal to shoot! Is this one much better because of the grips (do you think)?

I had a Ruger Speed Six with grips that looked identical to these grips...it was a very comfortable gun to shoot even with the hottest loads.

I'm thinking very hard on purchasing one of these 329 NGs. However I want a gun that is made for shooting and carrying alot, not carry alot and shoot a little.

Do you think this would hold up to a steady diet of heavy .44 spl level loads (10 grains of Unique stuffed under a 250 grn Keith SWC)?