Smith & Wesson S&W Stainless Model 629-1 .44 Magnum Revolver 3″ MFD 1987

SOLD FOR: $1,450.00

LSB#:  LSB251101JS003

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model:  629-1

Serial Number: ANR5187

Year of Manufacture:  1987 / Modern (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 5th Edition) 

Caliber: .44 Magnum

Action Type:  DA/SA, 6 Shot, Swing Out, Fluted Cylinder with Ejector. 

Markings:  The right side of the frame has a S&W monogram and the Marcas Registradas address.  The right side of the barrel is marked “.44 MAGNUM”.  The crane cut has the Serial number “ANR5187” and the model “629-1”.  The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. 

Barrel Length:  3″ Stainless

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a serrated blade with an orange insert, pinned to a solid rib. The rear sight is a white outlined rectangular notch sight with micro-adjustment, screwed to the top-strap. 

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stocks are two-piece smooth wood grips with finger grooves and S&W medallions.  The stocks have no apparent scatches and minimal handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish:  Stainless Steel

Finish Originality:  Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright with well-defined rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10. 

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its finish.  There are very light smudge marks on the frame.  The visible turn line is thin and crisp on the cylinder and there are carbon rings on the face. There are some very light scratches on the cylinder.  The screw heads are sharp.  The markings are clear.  Overall, this handgun rates an Fine condition. 

Mechanics:  The action functions as designed.  The cylinder has strong lock up on all 6 chambers with faint play. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action trigger is crisp.  We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  None

Our Assessment: The Smith and Wesson Model 629 represents the stainless steel evolution of the legendary Model 29, bringing the power of the .44 Magnum into a corrosion resistant platform suited to modern use. Introduced in the late 1970s, the Model 629 retained the robust N frame architecture that had defined Smith and Wesson’s large caliber revolvers since the mid twentieth century, while addressing demand for improved durability in harsh environments. The 629 quickly became one of the most recognizable stainless magnum revolvers of its era, carrying forward the lineage established by the original .44 Magnum revolvers of the 1950s.

The Model 629-1 revision reflects Smith and Wesson’s early 1980s production changes, including the elimination of the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder while preserving the classic lines and mechanical qualities that made the design so respected. The 3 inch barrel configuration is notably less common than longer barrel variants and offers a compact, well balanced interpretation of the N frame magnum. Adjustable sights, a solid rib, and the powerful .44 Magnum chambering combine to produce a revolver that reflects both engineering confidence and purposeful design during this period of Smith and Wesson production.

This 1987 example presents in Fine overall condition, retaining strong original stainless finish with only light handling marks and a crisp cylinder turn line. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, the action operates smoothly in both double and single action, and lockup remains solid across all chambers. The factory style wood stocks remain clean and well fitted, completing a revolver that reflects careful ownership and limited use. Taken as a whole, this is a well preserved and increasingly sought after short barrel Model 629-1 that stands as a compelling example of Smith and Wesson’s stainless magnum revolver heritage.  Weighing in at 2.5 lbs., this one would be a fine “bear gun” with an excellent power-to-weight ratio, revolver simplicity and reliability, and stainless steel resistance to the elements.  It is in such Excellent shape, however, a collector may get ahold of it before the woodsmen do. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

 BF