Smith & Wesson S&W Model 629, ‘The .44 Magnum’, Mint 1st Year Stainless Steel 6” 6-Shot Double Action Revolver & Case, MFD 1979
SOLD
LSB#: 170111TA01
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 629 ‘The .44 Magnum Stainless’, Square Butt N-Frame
Serial Number: N777205
Year of Manufacture: 1979, the 1st year of production. (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd Edition by Jim Supica & Richard Nahas)
Caliber: .44 Magnum & Special Cartridges
Action Type: 6-Shot, Single And Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “.44 MAGNUM”. The yoke cut is marked with the serial and model number and the yoke is marked “82336 / B19 / S”. The right side of the frame is marked with the four line Marcas Registradas address, the right side plate has S&W’s monogram logo. The left side of the grip frame is marked “b19 / 82338 / B22 / 12”, the butt has the serial number. The right side of the grip frame is “5” in hexagon, “4” in heart and 7487. The grips have S&W monogram logos, the included factory shipping case reflects the configuration, the serial number is written in ink on the lower end label, also reflecting its configuration.
Barrel Length: 6”, with shrouded ejector rod and solid, serrated rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramp blade with an orange insert, pinned to a serrated elevated base that is integral to the rib, which is serrated for glare reduction. The rear sight is an S&W micrometer click, flat top, square notched and white-outlined leaf that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are Goncalo Alvez with beautiful tone, the S&W logo medallions are nickel plated. The checkering is sharp on both panels, There are no marks to speak of, the fit to metal is crisp and they meet one another without quarrel. The grips rate in Mint overall condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp, it almost looks like a mirror. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The cylinder has an extremely light drag line. No evidence of long term use or handling are seen. The metal to metal fit is completely flush at the right side plate, all lines are solid and sharp. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent Plus to Mint condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces tight full lockup of all six chambers, with no measurable back play. The barrel is pinned and the chambers are counter-bored. The double action trigger pull is smooth, 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: The revolver comes with a cardboard shipping box from the factory, with an end label that reflects the revolver’s configuration, the serial number is hand written on the second label; this item has some roughing to the edges but overall is in about Fine condition. Also included is a blue factory box, with a tear on the tray, in Good condition, the included wax paper also has a couple of tears in Very Good condition. A group of factory paperwork, un-opened cleaning tool kit and display case; the case’s interior is crumbling but the outside is free of any marks, it is in a clear plastic bag fitting underneath the revolver as packaged; the case is in Fine condition.
Our Assessment: Popularized by Dirty Harry movies, the N-frame long barrel S&W revolvers had already been on the shelf in America for a few decades; after the movie, the Model 29 was revered by target shooters and law enforcement alike. This is an all stainless steel version with a 6″ barrel, TIGHT mechanics, a mirror bright bore and a grouping of factory items including an display case. In the realm of revolving firearms, many are available but few are coveted so highly. This should look great on display but if you are itching to go handgun hunting, .44 Magnum is a great way to go. The revolver looks to have been handled once or twice and put away, its yoke is tight to the frame and all fitting is precise. This one needs to be seen in person to really appreciate; please see our pictures and good luck.
