Smith & Wesson S&W Model 29-2 The .44 Magnum  6″ Nickel Revolver 1979-80

SOLD FOR: $1,225.00

LSB#: LSB251117XX002

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 29-2, The .44 Magnum

Serial Number: N684962

Year of Manufacture: 1979-80 / Modern

Caliber: .44 Magnum

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “44 MAGNUM”. The side plate has S&W’s monogram logo and the right side of the frame has the four-line Marcas Registradas address.  The crane cut is marked with the serial number and model number “N684962 / MOD 29-2”. The crane is marked “58X56” with inspection marks.  The butt is marked with the serial number. 

Barrel Length: 6 inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a red ramp, and the rear sight is a micrometer-click adjustable square-notch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fitted with Goncalo Alves grips featuring a “football cut” and sharp checkering. The grips are in very good condition, showing only light handling marks.

Type of Finish: Nickel, Case colored hammer and trigger.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling and light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 95% of its original nickel finish.  There appears to be some polishing marks on one side of the cylinder.  There are minor handling marks throughout.  There are carbon rings and a thin turn line on the cylinder.  The markings are crisp.  This revolver rates in Very Good to Fine condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up tightly with minimal play. The double-action trigger is smooth, and the single-action trigger is crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough inspection and cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  Wooden Display case with blue insert, Leather holster, and Cleaning Rod.

Our Assessment: Developed in a collaboration between Smith & Wesson and Remington with the input of big-bore handgun shooters including Elmer Keith, The .44 Magnum revolver and cartridge took the revolver world by storm in the 1950s, later to be known worldwide, even outside the firearms community, as “the most powerful handgun in the world” due to its portrayal in the Dirty Harry movies. Built on Smith & Wesson’s robust N-frame, the 29-2 variation is especially desirable among collectors as it represents the classic configuration prior to later engineering changes. This 6-inch example, manufactured circa 1979–80, embodies the balance of power, handling, and visual appeal that made the Model 29 famous.

This revolver retains approximately 95% of its original nickel finish, which remains bright and attractive. There are minor handling marks throughout, along with some visible polishing marks on one side of the cylinder. The cylinder shows carbon rings and a light turn line consistent with responsible use. The markings remain crisp and well-defined. The revolver is fitted with Goncalo Alves target grips featuring the desirable “football cut” and sharp checkering; the grips rate in very good condition with only light handling marks. The case-colored hammer and trigger provide an attractive contrast to the nickel finish and remain in excellent visual condition.

The bore is bright with sharp rifling and only light fouling, rating 9/10 in this writer’s opinion. Mechanically, the action functions correctly with tight lockup and minimal play. The double-action pull is smooth, and the single-action break is crisp, reflecting the quality craftsmanship expected from this era of Smith & Wesson production. Accompanying the revolver is a wooden display case with blue insert, a leather holster, and a cleaning rod, enhancing both presentation and collector appeal. This Model 29-2 represents a strong example of a highly sought-after classic American magnum revolver in Very Good to Fine condition. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF