Smith & Wesson S&W Model 629, ‘The .44 Magnum’, Scarce Brushed Stainless Steel 8 3/8” 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1981

Sold For: $1,163.00

LSB#: 161205KG63

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 629 ‘The .44 Magnum Stainless’, Square Butt N-Frame

Serial Number: N851007

Year of Manufacture: 1981, the 3rd 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 “896X8 / G4 / 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 “3 / G4 / 896X8 S / E2 / S / B5”, the butt has the serial number. The right side of the grip frame is “J” in circle, “P” in triangle and “7487”. The grips have S&W monogram logo medallions.

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, with shrouded ejector rod and solid, serrated rib.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramp blade with an orange insert, integral 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, though the smooth portions have a few scrapes. The stocks are in Fine Plus to Excellent 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 but for a few small spots of lead fowling. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% 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 flush at the right side plate, all lines are solid and sharp. There are areas of scuffing and polishing from handling wear. The grip strap flanks have dark patina and light surface etching, the rear serrated grip strap has this as well; it being a stainless pistol, a skilled metal worker could probably remedy these areas. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent 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 VERY light and 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: 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, CRISP mechanics, a mirror bright bore and beautiful stocks. With the scarce 8 3/8″ barrel for this 3rd year pistol, we’re willing to bet a collector will find it in high enough condition to possibly bump another 629 out of the safe. 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.

Smith & Wesson S&W Model 629, 'The .44 Magnum', Scarce Brushed Stainless Steel 8 3/8” 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1981
Smith & Wesson S&W Model 629, ‘The .44 Magnum’, Scarce Brushed Stainless Steel 8 3/8” 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1981