I have a model 29-3 that's seen so much hard use, I've retired it from any regular diet of full power loads. Mostly that's for my benefit and not the so much the guns. Some of the hard use that takes a toll on DA swing out cylinder revolvers take place from handling rather than firing. That's the case with mine. The yoke needed attention. The gun got carried in pretty hard circumstances both by me and it's previous owner. Lock up is still back vault tight and accuracy is first rate. Opening the cylinder is not as smooth as when new. I bought a SA Ruger SBH for heavy loads and hard use and keep the old 29 for sentimental reasons, and use it for mid range, and light loads, carrying it in less harsh conditions.
I've only owned two 29's. The lock work on either never exhibited any sign of deteriorating. Both were bought used, and used for outdoor carry and target shooting.
