Smith & Wesson Model 629 .44 Magnum 8 3/8” Stainless Revolver Case & Tools
SOLD FOR: $1,004.99
LSB#: LSB250710KA002
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 629
Serial Number: N854423
Year of Manufacture: 1980–1983 (Pinned & Recessed transitional production)
Caliber: .44 Magnum
Action Type: Double-Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 8 3/8” Pinned Barrel
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “44 MAGNUM”. The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The sideplate has the S&W logo. The crane cut is marked “MOD. 629” with the serial number “N854423” appearing on the butt of the grip frame, yoke, and under the extractor star. The factory target stocks are dated to the gun on the interior.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a red ramp blade set in a serrated base on a raised ramp. The rear sight is a square notch, white-outlined, adjustable for windage and elevation, set in a micrometer-click base.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are factory Goncalo Alves target stocks with S&W medallions. They show a faint inspector/date stamp consistent with 1981 production. The checkering is sharp, the wood shows only light handling wear, and there are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion. The bore shows evidence of firing outside the factory. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.8/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its original finish. The stainless steel shows light operational wear at the cylinder stop notches, a faint turn line, and minor marks consistent with gentle handling and firing. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with little play on each chamber. This revolver has a pinned barrel and recessed cylinder chambers — features phased out by S&W around 1982–83, making this one of the last examples produced with both. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes in its original Smith & Wesson walnut presentation case with blue flocked interior. The lining shows the expected flaking and wear typical of these cases. Also included are the correct cleaning tools (rod, brush, mop, and screwdriver) and factory paperwork, including a holster brochure and instructions. The case and accessories add significantly to collector appeal.
Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Model 629 was introduced in 1979 as the stainless-steel companion to the legendary Model 29, immortalized as the “Dirty Harry” .44 Magnum. Early examples like this one are prized not only for their association with the most powerful production revolver of its day, but also for the manufacturing features that S&W would soon abandon.
This revolver is from the transitional period of 1980–83, when S&W was phasing out the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder — hallmarks of classic S&W craftsmanship. To find an early-production stainless 629 with both features intact, factory-numbered target stocks, and the correct long 8 3/8” barrel is a real treat for collectors. Add to that its original walnut presentation case with blue flocked lining, tools, and paperwork, and you have the complete package.
For the shooter, this remains a practical magnum revolver with the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, a full target sighting system, and a long sight radius. For the collector, it is a scarce opportunity to own one of the last “old school” pinned & recessed Smiths in near-original condition. This Model 629 will appeal to both camps, but especially to those who value S&W’s transitional revolvers and the presentation sets that are so often lost. But you need to ask yourself one question. Do you feel lucky? Well, do ya? So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to look at the item’s condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
