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New to the revolver game. Looking for a companion to my Ruger Carbine 44mag. Thinking of a S&W Model 29 with a 4” barrel. What can I expect to pay for a good to very good condition pre-lock? Prices are all over the place on gunbroker.

Thanks

$750-$1250 depending on - number

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hunter4623, since you are new to the revolver game, you may not understand what TheKid wrote above. He meant "depending on (dash) number."
When S&W makes a design change, they add a dash and a digit to the model number. So you will find 29 without anything additional, usually called a "no dash", 29-1, 29-2, etc.
When you open the gun and swing out the cylinder, you will usually find the model number on the frame just under the barrel throat.
I do not know what the dash numbers mean for the M29 as far as what changes were made and which are considered the most desirable. You can search around to find that.

If you already knew all that, sorry for using up space.

Both guys nailed it, hunter.

I’m familiar with the dash. Any particular generation better or worse than the rest? Seems -4 models are upgraded but pre lock and MIM parts. Any notable difference between hammer mounted vs frame mounted firing pin. I looked at a bunch of old posts (5-10 year old posts) regarding this stuff but wondered if anyone had newer opinions/ experiences. I want a shooter as opposed to a collector or safe queen, if that matters.

Have you explored a Redhawk vs a model 29?

Can't help you with values, but I would be looking for a No Dash, -1, -2 only. However, I believe -5's have all the endurance upgrades, so that may be an option too.

Matt

I have a super redhawk Toklat and hunter both in .454. I was leaning towards S&W after shooting a friends.



I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks

Why a 29 instead of a 629?

Either one works. I’m not a fan of stainless guns but looking in my safe....I have a bunch.

If you check out the Smith & Wesson Forum (separate website) you'll find one for sale there sooner or later. I have recently bought them in blued, stainless, and nickel, Would suggest if you can find one in good condition beween $800-$950 you will be doing well.

Tim

either the 29 or 629 mountain gun would (and is) my choice. i wouldn't worry about the mim and lock. my 29-8 mountain gun is a shootin' SOB. nice trigger and fit and finish too. if you have to have a pre-lock/mim, the 29-5 is a good choice. of course so is the 29-2. i doubt you'll shoot it loose. you should be able to get into a nice one for around 8 bills.

few years ago, in ended up with a model29 classic smith four inch.
it isnt and wasn't impressive as an older one. under lug on barrel was not quite lining up with frame among other things.
It shoots okay, but you lay it next to an older smith, you can sure tell the difference.

You guys were spot on. Picked up a 629-2 mountain gun on gunbroker. $805. I’ll post some pics when I get it. Looked really nice in the pics

That sounds like a great snag....congrats....

If it is in great shape, you almost stole it. The N frame MG is a great configuration.

Great news, looking forward to seeing that one. That would be exactly my pick if I went back to the 44 Magnum.

There was a 629-5 Mountain Gun at my LGS. It sold for 750. No box or papers.

I had that gun book marked...that was a Hell-Of-A-Deal...

The MG Series is to me the best balanced guns Smith ever made...

cowboy...that is a real decent price if the gun is in good condition... I had two -2s and a -5 and ended up keeping the -5...

Bob

Congrats, hunter. Nice gun!