Model 29-3 Barrel Replacement

[Nakeddave]

Hey Guys!
My first post, but I'm a long-time S&W owner. I have owned my 6 inch blued Model 29 for about 30 years or so(Dirty Harry fan!). I am planning on replacing the barrel with a 4 inch barrel. I simply prefer the appearance of a 4 inch 29, and my 6 inch barrel is slightly damaged. I do not believe the barrel is of the pinned variety, judging by the -3 marking I found on the frame near the cylinder arm. Now, I realize the shorter barrel will increase felt recoil. What else should I expect with the shorter barrel? My 29 has been shot excessively, yet remains a very accurate gun. I do not like shipping my handguns, so the work will be done here in Michigan by a recommended gunsmith. Should I buy the barrel from S&W, or let the gunsmith do this? Thanks in advance!
Regards,
Costanza

 

[TAROMAN]

First off, welcome to the forum!
The -3 variant of the Model 29 eliminated the barrel pin, among other changes.
There are considerations about this project. Among them are:
You would need to check with S&W as to the availability of new 4" barrels. Jack Frist is another source, I'm told.
I see 4" 29 barrels on eBay from time to time, too.
Swapping out the barrel requires that the barrel cylinder gap be reset. something best done using a lathe to set the barrel back then adjust the gap.
Then there's the issue of finish. the barrel will most likely not match, meaning a total refinish if you are particular about such issues.
That said, I had a model 64 barrel replaced by a great local 'smith who also builds the rifles for the state SWAT unit. it came out perfect. So, a competent local 'smith WITH THE PROPER TOOLING can certainly do the job.

 

[Photog]

I have an extra 4" M29 barrel, probably for a -2 as it is pinned. I bought it to do the same thing you are planning on doing, but happened on a very good, very well priced 29-3 4", so now I have the best of both worlds. Let me know if you are interested.

 

[Nakeddave]

First off, welcome to the forum!
The -3 variant of the Model 29 eliminated the barrel pin, among other changes.
There are considerations about this project. Among them are:
You would need to check with S&W as to the availability of new 4" barrels. Jack Frist is another source, I'm told.
I see 4" 29 barrels on eBay from time to time, too.
Swapping out the barrel requires that the barrel cylinder gap be reset. something best done using a lathe to set the barrel back then adjust the gap.
Then there's the issue of finish. the barrel will most likely not match, meaning a total refinish if you are particular about such issues.
That said, I had a model 64 barrel replaced by a great local 'smith who also builds the rifles for the state SWAT unit. it came out perfect. So, a competent local 'smith WITH THE PROPER TOOLING can certainly do the job.

Hey Taroman! Thanks for the info! My bluing has a few scratches and dings already, and it is to be a 'shooter', so I am ok with a little bluing difference. And thanks Photog, for the barrel offer! PM or e-mail me and let me know what you'd like to get for it. I'd have to make sure the pinned barrel will not affect the installation on a non-pinned gun...I guess that is another question I have now! Thanks for the quick replies, and all on my first day here! too!
Regards,
Costanza aka Dave

 

[jaymoore]

The small pin recess ought not have any influence on the installation. It ought to be fine, just expect to deal with normal fitting issues as described above. Additionally, it would be a good time to sort any endshake dramas beforehand that will affect the cylinder gap fitting of the "new" barrel.

 

[Jim Watson]

SDM will shorten your existing barrel and fit an interchangeable blade front sight ramp for $250. Compare that to the price of a replacement barrel and its installation. Less what you can get for the 6" if you do not want to keep it.

 

[Nakeddave]

4" Barrel

Hey Photog:
I do not know if my PM's are reaching you or not. I am very interested in your kind offer. Please PM or e-mail me to let me know you have received this!
Thanks,
Costanza aka Dave

 

[ElmerKeith]

And what about the idea just to buy another M 29?

 

[Shooter338]

4in. Pinned bbl for 29-2.

Hey Guys, I need a 4in pinned bbl for my old Smith Model 29-2 any suggestions where.