Smith & Wesson S&W Model .44 Magnum Pre-Model 29 6.5″ DA/SA Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1275
LSB#: 210424MA15
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Magnum, Pre-Model 29
Serial Number: S154073
Year of Manufacture: 1956-1957
Caliber: .44 Magnum
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “44 MAGNUM”. The side plate has S&W’s monogram logo, the right side of the frame has the four line Marcas Registradas address. The underside of the ejector star, rear face of the cylinder, butt of the grip frame, and rear face of the yoke are marked with the serial number. The yoke and the sides of the grip frame have inspector marks.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with a red insert integral to a base pinned to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched and white outlined leaf in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut target stocks with S&W medallions at their tops, diamonds around the grip screws, and a football cut. The grips have minor handling wear with only a few scattered light marks. There is a small gap at the bottom front corner. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 93% of its current metal finish. There are some scattered little nicks and dings, some of the most noticeable are on the cylinder and right side of the frame. There are a couple scratches, most noticeable on the right side of the frame and trigger guard. There are some spots of finish loss from previous oxidation, most noticeable on the cylinder. There are some little spots of dark discoloration from previous oxidation. There are some draglines. There is some thinning and finish loss on the edges. The cylinder is slightly plum. There is a ding on the front sight riser. The screw heads are sharp to lightly worn with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action does not function correctly. Sometimes the double action trigger pull does not rotate the cylinder. The double action trigger is smooth and the single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is Smith & Wesson’s .44 Magnum, the pre-Model 29. Built on the 5-screw N-Frame with a square butt, this revolver has a 6 1/2? barrel and was made in 1956-57. Since then, the revolver has had its grips replaced with a set of walnut target stocks. The revolver appears to have seen some use and needs some work to the mechanics to get the double action reliable again but ought to make a great shooter once you do so. Once fixed it will be great for recreational target shooting if you like .44 Magnums, and can also use mild .44 Special loads for longer range sessions. Please see our pictures and good luck!