Picking up a '75 29-2 today. What to look for?

[jclayto]

I am most likely picking up a 8 3/8" blued 29-2 on a trade deal today. It appears to be in very good condition including presentation box, original paperwork, tools etc. The seller tells me it is a 1975 model and appears to have a recessed chamber from the photos.

I reviewed the recent thread discussing current values for the 29-2 and looked at recently completed gunbroker auctions. I believe I am doing well on this trade assuming my conservative estimate of 900-1000$ is correct.

My question: What should I look for other than over all condition when I see the gun in person today? I am not familiar with this era of S&W. I believe the recessed cylinder is desirable correct? Are there other subtle features that I should look for that would push value up or down ?

When reviewing completed auctions, it seems as if some with this barrel length go for $1,000 and some go for up to $2,200. The only difference visible to me is over all condition of the bluing. The higher end auctions are unfired or near mint pistols. I assume there are other differences that I am not familiar with.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

[Doc44]

The 29-2s shipped in 1975 have the barrel pin and recessed headspace in the charge holes in the cylinder (i.e. pinned and recessed). The stocks should be target type, checked, and made of Goncalo alves. The presentation case should have the revolver pointing to the left and be accompanied by a sight screwdriver, cotton swab, and cleaning rod with copper bristled brush attached.

Bill

 

[murphydog]

Welcome! An 8 3/8" model 29-2 is a standard barrel length, and its value is dependent mostly on its finish and mechanical condition, then the presence of the original stocks (checkered wood Target style) and box/contents/paperwork as you listed. At that time the recessed chambers and barrel pin (located at the upper forward frame) were standard features.

$900-1000 as you describe it is a very good price. I don't see $2200 29-2s unless they are engraved, in a rare barrel length like 5", or belonged to someone famous, but maybe you are looking harder than I am . Hope this is helpful.

 

[bananaman]

Hi, have you ever shot an 8&3/8 gun? I have not, and shy away from them. After I shoot 1 maybe I would consider it. Hate buying 1, and not like it. Bob

 

[Doc44]

bananaman...I am not sure why a person would shy away from a Model 29 with an 8 3/8-inch barrel? I have shot thousands of rounds through several Model 29s with this barrel length and they are easier to shoot than the 6 1/2 or 4-inch lengths. Blast is a major consideration when shooting magnum loads and the longer length puts the blast a little farther out, and that is a good thing.

Bill

 

[bananaman]

bananaman...I am not sure why a person would shy away from a Model 29 with an 8 3/8-inch barrel? I have shot thousands of rounds through several Model 29s with this barrel length and they are easier to shoot than the 6 1/2 or 4-inch lengths. Blast is a major consideration when shooting magnum loads and the longer length puts the blast a little farther out, and that is a good thing.

Bill

My primary shooting consists of 25 yd. steel targets at the range. I have 6" & 6.5" barrel guns. 4" have them also. I hate to buy a gun and not like it. Have done it plenty of times. I WOULD buy a 8 & 3/8" IF I shot 1 first and knew what to expect. Would probably enjoy it. Just would like to be sure. Bob

 

[fyimo]

Congratulations on the purchase of a classic S&W revolver

 

[Xfuzz]

Timing and lock-up for a 44 mag....
But, the majority of 29-2 from that era
were shot very little. Can't tell you ho many I have
bought which included a box of shells with 6-12 rounds
missing.
8 3/8 barrels were not carried or holstered much.

 

[jclayto]

Thank you all for the excellent information. I am looking forward to taking a look at the gun later today.

I have not shot anything longer than my 6" 686+. However - and I realize this is not a true collectors gun - I am looking at this one more as an addition to my collection that I probably won't shoot often. It's been shot, so I won't feel bad shooting it occasionally. More than anything it's a interesting piece of smith history from an era that I do not own a single example of. I also have a hope that it will at least maintain value if not slowly appreciate over time.

It should somewhat maintain value as long as I maintain it's current condition, correct? If not, shhhhhh don't tell my wife

 

[Doc44]

The 29-2 will appreciate in value over time as long as you take good care of it. Shooting it occasionally will not affect value much since it has already been shot.

Bill