Model 29-3

[Bigman]

Hey Everyone, a few weeks ago I asked a question about a S&W 44 magnum, but that deal fell through. Yesterday I was at a gun show in Atlanta and I came across a model 29-3, the gun is in excellent shape, and as far as I can tell it only has one very small place in the blueing. The gun has the 6 inch barrel. I have been wanting a S&W in 44 magnum for a long time, so this one came home with me. I am just starting to learn about these revolvers, but I need some help. I am wondering when the gun was built and the value. Value doesn't bother me because I realy liked the gun. I paid $600.00 The serial number starts with AV02 Thanks for any and all help..Ray

 

[Enframe]

SCSW 3rd says July of 1987.

Oh, on the value. $600 is fair depending on condition of course. But you did say you really wanted it, so it sounds like a deal to me.

 

[Bigman]

Enframe, thank you for the information. To me this revolver is in excellent condition, and does not appear to have been shot much. Like I said before, I have found only one small, very small place on the blueing, and besides the normal turn line. And again, when you want something and it makes you happy, that's all that matters....Ray

 

[Enframe]

You are quite welcome, Bigman. Although the -3 doesn't impress like the P&R versions do, and has no enhancements like the later versions (there are 29-3E's), they are still good guns and sweet shooters, IMHO.

 

[GF]

I've had this 29-3 for years, shot 240 & 180gr magnum ammo in it almost exclusively...

... unless you are a glutton for punishment or have a lot more money than I do for ammo, you'll never shoot a -3 loose.

GF

 

[PA Reb]

There ain't a 29 made that isn't any good. Congratulations on your new cannon but beware, one leads ............. !

 

[NE450No2]

Bigman, well done, a 6" 44 Mag is one of the best handguns a fella, or gal can have, IMHO of course.
I do not know how much Magnum handgun shooting you have done, so...
I would start out shooting some light loads, if you do not reload, some 44 Specials, and work your way up to 44 Magnums.

Just because you have a 44 Mag, does not mean you have to shoot full power 44 Mags all the time. I do not drive my vehicle 100MPH or even 60MPH all the time. Not even most of the time...

 

[Bigman]

Thanks for all the responses to my post. This is the first S&W that I have ever owned in 44 magnum. In the past, a few years back I owned a couple of Rugers in 44 magnum, one was a Super Redhawk with a 7.5 inch barrel and the Rugers were very good guns. But I had just wanted a S&W in 44 and I am at the point in my life that I can splurge a little on myself, and my grand-kids. And by the way, I know where this all leads to, more guns! This is my 6th S&W I guess I will be looking for lucky number 7 next! Thanks again...Ray