Model 29-2

[WVEER]

My LGS has a model 29-2 with 8 3/8" barrel for sale at $725. It's blued version with presentation case, tools, and wood grips. I could not make it there to see it in time after work. Described on there website as being in excellent shape. I'm not really interested in a 44 mag but this deal seems incredible if the revolver is in excellent shape. Any thoughts? May buy just for the deal.

 

[Watchdog]

Described on their website as being in excellent shape.

This is a problem with online gun sales/ads. Did this description not include photographs? If not, why not.

There are so many different ways people use the term "excellent shape", it's become almost meaningless. It could refer to finish. It could refer to mechanics and function. Far as I'm concerned, without photos that description is meaningless.

Without photos on this forum, no one can really give valid advice...in my opinion. There'll be some folks along shortly who'll say something like, "Well, if it's really excellent, sure, buy it." Then other folks will decry the lack of photos and maybe ask you how you expect to get an opinion on this without photos or a more detailed description.

If this is in an online ad without photos and a better description, I wouldn't touch it. The expression "pig in a poke" comes to mind.

And if it's in a local gun shop, go look at it, then make up your mind.

 

[Sailor29]

I'd buy it depending on condition. I think it's a fair/good price. I bought one as well, used but no case or tools for $600 10 years ago. They are fun to shoot, if you reload you can reload .44 specials and test your skills with not a lot of recoil. I was shooting leftover pumpkins from Thanksgiving at 100 yards with .44 Magnums....watched then explode!!!!

 

[OldK22]

Stopped by our local gun shop today and they had a 29-3 8 3/8 blue in the showcase. $850 with no box, presentation case or tools. Looked like 98% except when I looked at it in hand and saw that someone had put K frame target stocks on it. Pointed that fact out to the counter guy and his answer was "if you say so" "that is how it came in". I passed on it.

 

[JH1951]

I agree with you that the price sounds good. Things all depend on condition as mentioned above several times. Make a trip to the LGS and see what the story is first hand. Arm yourself with knowledge about what you are looking at prior to the trip.
Also consider: What is the reputation of the LGS? Will they honor a return if you change your mind in several days? These things may not be deal breakers, but they sure are deal makers IMHO.

 

[Jack Flash]

In your shoes I would go in to look at it with an open mind.

I would look it over really well then decide. But then, I like .44 Magnums. However, you are "not really interested." If I felt that way, I would just pass.

Flipping guns and making money on them is not as easy as it sounds. The box and tools are a big plus. The long barrel is a drawback. The main thing is condition and originality.

 

[Aircrewman]

I feel that this may be a deal for you. As it has the box/tools etc. it can really be a deal as so many Smiths don't come with the tools, box, papers.... Even though you may not have any interest in the 44 caliber right now, you may develop an interest and then, you'll have one of the premier 44's on the planet! The 8 3/8" model 29 actually is, to my thinking, a really fun 44. I had one (first 44 I ever bought). Extraordinarily accurate, handles well and a little better holding as its heavier than the other 2 bbl lengths. I think that you should go for it..

 

[bigmoneylewis]

Sounds like a Very good deal as described. The main thing is the fact that it is a -2 , so you are looking at a $ 1,000 gun minimum , as long as it is 98% or better . Even The less desirable -3s and newer sell for $ 800 . To get a pinned barrel at a hair over $ 700 is the kind of deal that make a man get out of bed in the morning.

Lewis

 

[Hawg Rider]

Good Buy- If you like Long Barrels

Sounds like a good deal to me, but you have to like the long tubes! Remember- the presentation box and papers alone are selling for $150 and up. The -2 (P&R) also makes it much more desirable. However, like Jack Flash posted, if you're thinking of buying it to flip it and make a few bucks, you may have it sitting around for a while. If you inspect it in person and it's as nice as they say, and you're OK with the long barrel- buy it.

 

[WVEER]

Great advice guys. Given the fact I am really not interested in 44 mag especially one that long, I think I am just going to pass. If someone is interested in one, PM me and I will give you the website of my LGS. They are great to work with and will send you pics if you are interested.

 

[629shooter]

I'd be buying that one but, I like 44 Magnum N-Frames.