In the '70s I attempted to order a S&W 29, 6.5" barrel. Local dealers told me they were back-ordered indefinitely. Pay your money and take your chances.
THEN one, a stocking dealer, said that if I wanted one badly enough I could leave a note with them and when the distributor arrived they'd give me a call. They said the distributor kept the Model 29s in "the trunk" while telling buyers that they were the distributor's own guns, which he would generously sell for twice, or more, list price.
I declined.
Instead I special ordered a pair of 25-5s in 45-Colt. I was told it would be a wait, and it was. When they arrived they did not have the sights I requested. I told the dealer to send them back but he said I would wait twice the time to get what I wanted. So, I took what I got.
Are some distributors/dealers doing that kind of thing today? Hearing that manufacturers are running day and night to fill orders, I'd bet on it.