Smith & Wesson Model 29-2 .44 Magnum 8 3/8″ Nickel DA/SA Revolver 1979–1980
SOLD FOR: $1,075.00
LSB#: WY250330GC034
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 29-2
Serial Number: N685998
Year of Manufacture: 1979–1980
Caliber: .44 Magnum (also chambers .44 Special)
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
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 yoke cut is marked with the model and serial number: “MOD 29-2” and “N685998.”
Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp with a red insert. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square-notch target sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is equipped with checkered Goncalo Alves target grips featuring a football cut and inset S&W medallions. The grips show light handling marks and rate in Very Good condition. There are no cracks or chips.
Type of Finish: Bright Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is light fouling and no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95 %+ of its original finish. There are light scuffs and faint scratches from careful handling, and light burn marks on the cylinder face. The trigger and hammer retain bold case coloring. The screw heads are sharp, and all markings are crisp. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Lockup is tight, and timing is excellent. The trigger is smooth in double action and crisp in single action. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a Smith & Wesson presentation wooden display case with blue flocked interior trays. Also included are a factory cleaning rod, mop, bore brush, and screwdriver.
Our Assessment:
The Model 29-2 is one of the most iconic Smith & Wesson revolvers, made famous by Clint Eastwood’s “Dirty Harry” films and revered by big-bore revolver enthusiasts ever since. This particular example, made in 1979 or 1980, features the desirable 8 3/8” pinned barrel, nickel finish, and comes housed in a classic presentation case with factory tools.
The revolver retains over 95% of its finish and shows only light signs of careful handling. With its crisp target sights, red ramp, target hammer and trigger, and factory Goncalo Alves grips, this Model 29-2 is everything collectors and shooters love about the classic N-frame magnum.
If you’ve been looking for a long-barreled .44 Magnum with presentation-grade appeal, this one checks all the boxes. With all this said, you have to ask yourself one question: “Do you feel lucky? So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
