Sold For: $1,525
LSB#: 201008RA02
The number one variation on the Model 29 theme is the Model 629, a stainless steel.44 Magnum introduced in 1978 with serial numbers N629062 to N629200 for a special run of 'pre-production' guns followed by the first production gun, serial number N748564 all with 6” barrels. In 1980 both 4” and 8 3/8” barrels were added to the catalog. Smith & Wesson became a subsidiary of Bangor-Punta from 1965–1983. Between 1983–1987, Smith & Wesson was owned by the Lear Siegler Co. On May 22, 1987, it was sold to R.L.Tomkins, a British holding company. Model Number 2 or Old Army Model. Early 5-Inch Barrel Model 29 Fiftieth Anniversary Model 29.
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Pre-Model 29
Serial Number: S174083
Year of Manufacture: 1957
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, the right side of the frame has the four line Marcas Registradas address. The yoke cut is marked with the serial number. The underside of the ejector star is marked with the serial number. The butt is marked with the serial number. The yoke and the sides of the grip frame have inspector marks. The inside of the right grip panel is marked with a non-matching serial number.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with a red insert integral to a base pinned to the barrel rib. The blade has been tapered toward the top. The pins protrude slightly on each side of the rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched and white outlined leaf in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut Magna stocks with S&W medallions at their tops. The grips have minor handling wear with only a few scattered light marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine-plus condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Sw Model 29 Sale
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its current metal finish. There are a few scattered spots of light erosion under the finish, most notable on the sideplate and behind one of the cylinder flutes. There is a patch of more moderate erosion and pitting under the finish on the left of the frame, mostly covered by the left grip panel when installed. The cylinder has a very light turn-line. The hammer and trigger’s case color has muted slightly but is still visible. The screw heads are sharp. Most markings are clear, the sideplate’s logo is shallow and incomplete. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with barely perceptible play on each chamber when the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth and the single action is 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.
List Of Sw Serial Numbers
Our Assessment: This is Smith & Wesson’s .44 Magnum, the pre-Model 29. Built on the 4-screw N-Frame with a square butt, this revolver has a 6 1/2″ barrel and was made in 1957. Since then, the revolver has had its grips replaced with a set of walnut Magna stocks, its front sight tapered and the insert replaced, and the revolver has been refinished after some erosion and pitting was acquired on the surfaces. It should still be great for recreational target shooting if you like .44 Magnums, and can also use mild .44 Special loads for longer range sessions. The revolver appears to have seen gentle use since refinishing, retaining strong mechanics and a great bore. Please see our pictures and good luck!
CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable (THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO OUT-OF-STATE RESIDENTS): This C&R Pistol CAN be sold as a dealer sale in California but CANNOT be transferred as a Private Party Transfer (PPT) as our Simi Valley location. All C&R firearms must be transferred through your local dealer OR at our Simi Valley location; we cannot ship directly to a C&R holder in California. Out of state residents can disregard this section – your local laws apply.