"Prototype" (629) MAGNA CLASSIC

[Doc44]

One of four "prototypes" made by S&W to introduce this model at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas in January 1990. The revolver has a BEP, rather than a MAG prefix serial number. The revolver is a Model 629-3.

I don't normally collect 44 Magnums this "new", but this one was very appealing (bright stainless and 7 1/2-inch heavy barrel) and I couldn't pass it up. It has been shot, and I plan to shoot it some more.

Bill

 

[mkk41]

Where oh where do you find 'em?!?!

 

[Harvester]

Good Googly-Moogly!!

Allow me to say: WOW!! I have to admit, I went completely stainless for a few years; although, my love of old-and-blue has been more than revived recently.

Seeing that sweet pistol has me drooling.... VERY nice and many thanks for sharing!! I hope you will be taking it afield this season and harvesting some game like I would. If so, I will be living vicariously through you!

~Harvester

 

[redbos]

Bill, May I ask a question? Do you have a great "source" for these gems that you own or do you visit auctions and what not?

You are a better man than me, I dont know if I would shoot it, it is so pretty!

Love all of your guns and education that you have passed along to us!

 

[Doc44]

redbos...I have acqired many of my favorite guns through my membership in the S&WCA. Attending their annual meeting is, by far, the best way to find great collectibles and establish relationships with fellow collectors that point you to guns like this one.

Our next meeting is in Boise, ID in June 2012 and the theme is "44 caliber firearms". I am looking forward to seeing the great displays and who knows, maybe there will be another unique 44 waiting for me there. Also, I am looking forward to seeing the Elmer Keith collection again that is on display at the Cabela's in Boise.

Bill

 

[redbos]

I am going to try and attend. My wife and her family is from Central Washington so maybe I can plan a trip and "escape" to buy look into some .44's . I am also going to look into joining the S&WCA since I love buying my S&W's. Thanks for the info , would love to see a K22, Model 17 thread if those are your interests as well.

 

[kennyb]

beautiful as always bill...will try to be in id.next june!

 

[GCT00427]

Absolutely beautiful, Bill. I remember when the Magna Classics came out. I had a very early Classic DX, 6 1/2". Can you take a picture of the reverse side?

Regards,

Chuck

 

[rocketman223]

I might have one of these too... 7 1/2 full lug barrel, bright stainless and the only markings are Smith&Wesson on one side of the barrel and .44 Magnum on the other. 2 sets of grips. bought it NIB in '91 and my receipt says limited edition. The blue box lable also has a special order # on it.
Any idea of it's value?
Thanks
Ed

 

[magnuslee]

Prototype

Only fired 3 times. factory test target came with the gun.

 

[7tenz]

Found mine late 2015. It's blued one of 1800 I think and there were 1200 SS IIRC. Still in unfired condition.

I found another early this year for $1600, that's $400 more than I paid for mine. Somebody snapped it up before I could make up my mind to buy it or not.