Thoughts on this M29-2?
- Thread starter dr. mordo
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As an unabashed fanboy of 4" .44 N frames I'd be very tempted to grab it. I'd figure $125+ for some nice age appropriate targets so take that in to consideration. I can't quite tell the condition of the blue-whether there's wear or just reflection. If it locks/times without issue I'd probably get it, though I'd counter offer due to the grips and no extras.
Depending on the serial number, which most likely begins with an S, the correct stocks could be anything from coke bottles to Diamond Targets made of Goncalo alves to non-diamond targets if shipped in 1969. Looks like a nice example of a Model 29-2, but $900 is at the top of the price range without the correct stocks.
Bill
Bill
bigggbbruce
Member
^+1
Correct stocks and box for $900.. and that's more than I would..
Correct stocks and box for $900.. and that's more than I would..
Texas Star
US Veteran
Are those grips by Sile? They are likely to fit most hands better than factory target stocks. If you plan to carry it, that's a point in their favor.
GOING BY THE PHOTO, I'd carefully examine the gun and if all's well, buy it. Try to get the price down a little because of the missing box, tools, and incorrect grips. Frankly, I doubt they'll budge much.
As for the grips, I'd probably buy a pair from Culina, so the originals wouldn't matter. If you're really fond of the gun, you might spend what it takes for grips by Keith Brown.
I'd either find a really nice example of the old Safariland M-29 holster or order the same basic thing from El Paso Saddlery, lined & basketweave stamped. They call it Model 2. And I'd handload moderate power ammo for most use. The gun will last much better if you fire full Magnum ammo only as needed. You probably know that, but other people read these forums.
GOING BY THE PHOTO, I'd carefully examine the gun and if all's well, buy it. Try to get the price down a little because of the missing box, tools, and incorrect grips. Frankly, I doubt they'll budge much.
As for the grips, I'd probably buy a pair from Culina, so the originals wouldn't matter. If you're really fond of the gun, you might spend what it takes for grips by Keith Brown.
I'd either find a really nice example of the old Safariland M-29 holster or order the same basic thing from El Paso Saddlery, lined & basketweave stamped. They call it Model 2. And I'd handload moderate power ammo for most use. The gun will last much better if you fire full Magnum ammo only as needed. You probably know that, but other people read these forums.
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Jack Flash
Member
I have to take a back seat to the experts who say $900 is high / upper range. All I can say is I have never seen a no lock 4" M29 for sale locally.
I didn't catch whether you can examine it firsthand or if the picture is all you have to go on. That would make a big difference. If I examined it and everything was tickety-boo I would have a hard time walking away.
I didn't catch whether you can examine it firsthand or if the picture is all you have to go on. That would make a big difference. If I examined it and everything was tickety-boo I would have a hard time walking away.
muddocktor
Member
I would go for it for $900 myself. It might be on the high end in some areas but in other areas it would middle of the road. That is assuming it's in good shape mechanically and finish-wise. About the missing grips; if you plan to make it a shooter don't bother worrying about getting some of the "sanded 2x4 grips" the guns were shipped with after they discontinued the cokes. They will wear blisters without gloves when shooting 44 mag rounds through it. My brother proved that 3 weeks ago with me when we brought our 44's to the range. Those stock grips tore his shooting hand up on the web between thumb and fore finger. I felt so bad for him that I gifted him a pair of cocobolo Culina stocks.
I have to take a back seat to the experts who say $900 is high / upper range. All I can say is I have never seen a no lock 4" M29 for sale locally.
I didn't catch whether you can examine it firsthand or if the picture is all you have to go on. That would make a big difference. If I examined it and everything was tickety-boo I would have a hard time walking away.
It's not local, so I do have to depend on the description of the gent selling it.
I appreciate the advice. I have a set of age appropriate magnas and a BK grip I'd slap on it if I get it. Now that I think about it that's one more reason to buy it - those grips need to be put to use!
Seems a little high to me Doc unless it's really nice. Hard to tell by one photo
Doc, what clue(s) lead you to the S prefix? Lazy ampersand? Pinned front sight base? Just looking for education...
cbfd
Member
900.00 is a bargain around here for a decent example. The 4" -2's never come up for sale at that price. Never really see them at any price around here. -3 and newer yes. Longer barrels yes. I would buy it and not look back. Love the 4" guns.
CJSmith
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bigmoneylewis
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A 4"' 29- 2 in anything above 94% is a go at $ 900 .
Lewis
President of the Smith & Wesson preservation society
Lewis
President of the Smith & Wesson preservation society
Charlie Foxtrott
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It is hard to say from just the one picture.
But if the gun is clean. Regardless of the non original stocks. You are not going to get too beat up over nine bills. We only see a clean 4" -2 around here for sale in about a coons age. I would likely jump on it.
But if the gun is clean. Regardless of the non original stocks. You are not going to get too beat up over nine bills. We only see a clean 4" -2 around here for sale in about a coons age. I would likely jump on it.
I know we only have one picture, but do you think that gun might be above 94%? I don't really have a grasp yet on how the percentage numbers work with regard to blue.
This is a good point - it's not a terrible deal in any case.
I very much appreciate everyone's comments. I'm still on the fence. Part of me wants to hold out for a Pre 29 or a less common older model like a M21 or M24, but I do really want a 29-2.
I'd try to negotiate, but if unsuccessful I snag it for $900
I always offer less. What's the worst thing they can do? Say "no?" On the other hand, they might say "yes."
BUT...be prepared to pay the asking price if you want it. If you walk away, the guy behind you probably won't hesitate.
BUT...be prepared to pay the asking price if you want it. If you walk away, the guy behind you probably won't hesitate.
samandglove1
Member
I'd try and get it for less, but I would be a buyer at $900 in that condition (as long as the bluing was original).
