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S&W Model 629 .44 MAG

ItsTurboTime

Registered User
I've been looking for a nice .44 Mag for a while and I just came across a used S&W 629 with a 6" barrel at a gun store nearby for $479. I might buy it this evening, and I was just wondering if anyone had any experience with this model, opinions, or advice as far as red flags to look for indicating abuse.

300px-SW-629.jpg

(^^not the actual one for sale, just one like it)
 

MasterBates

Well-Known Member
Look for "cutting" on the topstrap above the cylinder/barrel gap. That may be an indication of overly hot loads or excessive cylinder gap.

I don't know the specs, but like all wheel guns, find the spec, take BRASS feeler guages and check it. Check for proper lockup, and also, work the trigger DA and SA to check for a "bubbaized" trigger job.
 

ItsTurboTime

Registered User
Topstrap was definitely showing more wear than I was comfortable with and the rest of the gun wasn't in as good shape as I had hoped either. No go.

Oh well, there was also a Glock .40 that caught my eye. We'll see.
 

MasterBates

Well-Known Member
Top strap will normally have some marking. However, if it is cutting into the topstrap in any depth, that is an issue. 357 Maximums have big issues with it.
 

A4sForever

BTDT OLD GUY
pilot
Contributor
.... the gun wasn't in as good shape as I had hoped either. No go.....
Good headwork ... too many guys buy firearms on emotion. While the .44 Mag Smith's are nice revolvers ... I just purchased 3 older models ... you have to buy based on what's in front of you ... not what you wish was there nor what Dirty Harry carried ... :)

BTW ... Clint frequently carried a .41 Magnum as a .44 was not available ... ;) ... Hollywood ...
 

scoober78

(HCDAW)
pilot
Contributor
Since that .44 fell through, I'll throw some .02 cents in here...

I'm a huge fan of the .45 Long Colt. It can be loaded to do as well or better than the .44 mag down range and with quite a bit less chamber pressure. (recoil) In addition you can buy or load some great little wadcutter stuff that will beat you and your wallet up less. Just a little food for thought.
 

A4sForever

BTDT OLD GUY
pilot
Contributor
Since that .44 fell through, I'll throw some .02 cents in here... I'm a huge fan of the .45 Long Colt. ....
.45 LC. Sometimes described as the "Thinking Man's .44 Magnum" ....

It can be a much better cartridge as described by scoober ... especially when paired with a "carry revolver" in a shorter barrel version than one normally thinks of when you say ".44 Magnum".
 

Fly Navy

...Great Job!
pilot
Super Moderator
Contributor
Shortbarrel, light frame .44 Magnum... eek. I shot a heavy 6" version, loved it. Wouldn't want it in a snubby though.
 

feddoc

Really old guy
Contributor
Here is a nice little M29 I have been saving for a rainy day. I have an M57 somewhere, NIB.

NVguns-3.jpg
 

scoober78

(HCDAW)
pilot
Contributor
Now that's pretty.

There is something elegant about revolvers.

Simplicity is often the most beautiful of things...hammer, cartridge, barrel...the rest is details.

Nice call.
 
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