Model 29-2 Original Grip Question

[john14_18]

I recently purchased this 29-2 made in 1977 and was told these are the original grips. I couldn't find it in the 3rd edition of the Std Catalog of S&W, but I thought that all the original grips were checkered. Are these smooth ones original and if so, were they offered on other models as well ?

Thank you in advance.

 

[Art Doc]

Either the originals had the checkering sanded off or those are what some call "presentation" stocks as they are often seen on fancy models. Others call them smooth targets. They came on select models and were offered as replacement parts. I suspect that if they are original smooth targets they are not what came on the gun but it's not impossible.

These are standard Target stocks of the 1970s that came on the 29s.

 

[bubbajoe45]

Both my 27-2 (1968) and my 29-2 (1979) came to me with Smooth targets. I assume that the 29's were original since I purchased it from the original owner who also gave me 2 other sets of aftermarket grips also, and all his other paraphernalia associated with that gun. I seem to recall reading that they came on several that were in presentation boxes (thus the name 'presentation stocks'). I think Doc44 has some pre-1961 guns with them as well.

 

[john14_18]

Thank both of you very much. I did buy it from the original owner in the presenation case and it has all the original paperwork, even the registration card and he did say those were the ones that came on it.

Thanks again for the info and have a Blessed Day !

 

[Doc44]

Most 44 Magnums/Model 29s were shipped with checked stocks that were standard for this model. However, a few shipped with plain stocks that were normally shipped with engraved or (otherwise) presentation revolvers.

Regardless if the stocks are original or not, they are very nice and look good on your 29-2. If you ever want to replace them with checked stocks, a pair will be easy to find.

Bill

 

[Nightowl]

If the original purchaser said they came that way, then I would go with that! Whose to say otherwise. The smooth targets could be ordered on a new gun, and I did on a model 27-2 I bought around that time.

They are not sanded down, as they are still too large and original profile. I tried that once, and still had to fill the deep bordering around the checkering, or I would'nt hardly have a grip left.

Very nice find.

 

[john14_18]

Thanks for the info !

 

[EQGuy]

I purchased a 29-2 new in 1974 and it came to me with smooth target stocks. I no longer have this gun.

 

[buckeyeshooter1]

Every N frame I ordered in the 70's, I ordered with smooth targets. Back then you could specify them. The only problem was the time it took to get your order shipped to the dealer -- especially on 29's!

 

[Art Doc]

They were available as special order, but I have never seen a gun that came with them. I never knew anyone who ordered a S&W. We just bought what the dealers had available.

Dealers would routinely swap on stocks for customers and many may have been supplied by dealers upon customer request. More likely the vast majority were purchased separately and installed by owners.

There's no way to know for sure... and does it really matter?

 

[jsmith8918]

My friend has a 29-2 in a presentation case that has the smooth target sized grips on it that his dad acquired way back in the day. I doubt he switched 'em out because his MO was to acquire and then store in a safe without modifying or even shooting his guns.

 

[BruceM]

I do believe that some of the very early M29-2's came first with Cokes and then with diamond targets before the flat panel targets with the football relief became standard in the '70's but Doc would know best.



Bruce

 

[deuterij]

John, that is a really beautiful example of a 29-2. The bluing looks has a depth to it, almost translucent. I see you like the long barrels.

 

[tlanders]

Doc44,

You said the 29-2 checkered stocks are easy to find. I am looking for a set but don't know where to look. I joined this forum specifically to find those stocks. Can you help?

Thanks,

Ted

 

[jj2am44]

Try E Bay.

 

[BUFF]

This forum has a "Classifieds" section. Watch the "Accessories/Misc." section or post a "Want To Buy" ad in "WTB." I buy a lot of stuff from there.

 

[murphydog]

Doc44,

You said the 29-2 checkered stocks are easy to find. I am looking for a set but don't know where to look. I joined this forum specifically to find those stocks. Can you help?

Thanks,

Ted

Do a search in the classifieds for N frame target stocks, "football" or extractor cutout, or watch the new Wanted to Sell or Trade ads for same; they sell quickly.