Talyn
SAINT
The primal Smith & Wesson Model 29, which came out in 1955 and was first manufactured in 1956/1957, was a revolutionary revolver that bore the title of the most powerful production handgun at that time.
The 29-1: the First Refinement
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-1 was the first revision of the original Model 29 introduced in 1960. The most significant change made to the 29-1 was to the ejector rod screw. This minor change, however, increased the gun’s durability as well as simplified maintenance;
The 29-2: Dirty Harry's 44.
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-2, which first appeared on the market in 1961, is a fabled revolver which found itself getting famous after it was spotlighted in Clint Eastwood’s classic film of 1971 “Dirty Harry”. This update built on top of what the initial model 29 had set by bringing about some more improvements in its design. The major difference observed in the 29-2 was that one screw used to hold the cylinder-stop spring was removed.
The 29-3: The Era of Modern Manufacturing
This revision deviated from traditional methods of production that aimed at efficiency and cost-cutting. The most significant change to the 29-3 was removing the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder which were both common features of the Model 29 from its very beginning. Smith & Wesson, however, adopted a new method of crush fit barrel. The effect of this was simplifying the manufacturing process while reducing overall costs.
The 29-4: Enhanced Durability for Heavy Use
The 29-4, launched in 1988, made notable improvements aimed at increasing the longevity of the revolver and enhancing its capability during constant use. Key areas were focused on to enhance durability. The original yoke (cylinder crane) lock-up system was modified to handle long periods of use. In addition, the frame studs were given a radius that minimized wear and tear while boosting reliability. Although these changes did not alter the appearance of the gun, they substantially increased its durability and dependability when used in severe conditions.
The 29-5: Reinforced for Magnum Power
In 1990 the 29-5 was introduced, and worked on its ability to safely use the powerful cartridge. Most of the changes in the 29-5 were made internally. So that bolt jump could be stopped, S&W lengthened cylinder notches. Moreover, bolts and inner mechanisms were modified in order to minimize battering inflicted by the .44 Magnum’s heavy recoil. This change extended the useful life of this gun, especially for those who shoot full-power magnum loads often.
The 29-6: Ergonomic Evolution
One of the most significant changes in the 29-6, launched in 1994, was the improved ergonomics and accessory options that came with it. The major change that occurred in this model is moving from traditional wooden grips to Hogue rubber Monogrips. These changes increased shooting comfort while taming recoil for handling powerful cartridges like the .44 Magnum. Another significant improvement incorporated into the Model 29-6 was the inclusion of tapped holes for scope mounts. This feature made revolvers more versatile by facilitating hunters and target shooters who wanted to attach optical sights without custom gunsmithing.
The 29-7: The MIM Revolution
A significant stage happened in the 29-7, launched into the market in 1998. Materials and techniques used in manufacturing were modernized, however, major changes took place inside this model. In order to achieve better reliability and ease of maintenance, Smith & Wesson introduced some alterations to the firing pin attachment as well as locking mechanisms. Instead of being ground from a blank and then hand-fitted like their predecessors were, hammers and triggers became products of metal injection molding (MIM). The method enabled more intricate component geometries with minimum cost-effectiveness compromises on strength.
The 29-8: The Mountain Gun Evolution
The 29-8, brought into the market in 2001, is best known for being the mountain gun, with modifications done on the regular model. The Mountain Gun version of the 29-8 was developed for increased portability with no compromise on .44 Magnum cartridge power. It had a lightweight construction that made it easier to carry while hunting or engaging in outdoor activities. It preserved its classical barrel contour for an equilibrium between modern functionality and traditional aesthetics. Moreover, one significant addition was the internal lock mechanism which became standard across several Smith & Wesson revolvers at that time.
And now for the rest of the Story...
POTD: The "Strongest Handgun in The World" - The S&W Model 29
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The primal Smith & Wesson Model 29, which came out in 1955 and was first manufactured in 1956/57
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-1: the First Refinement
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-1 was the first revision of the original Model 29 introduced in 1960. The most significant change made to the 29-1 was to the ejector rod screw. This minor change, however, increased the gun’s durability as well as simplified maintenance;
POTD: Smith & Wesson Model 29-1 - The First Refinement of a Legend
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Smith & Wesson Model 29-1 was the first revision of the original Model 29 introduced in 1960.
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-2: Dirty Harry's 44.
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-2, which first appeared on the market in 1961, is a fabled revolver which found itself getting famous after it was spotlighted in Clint Eastwood’s classic film of 1971 “Dirty Harry”. This update built on top of what the initial model 29 had set by bringing about some more improvements in its design. The major difference observed in the 29-2 was that one screw used to hold the cylinder-stop spring was removed.
POTD: "Dirty Harry's Gun" - The Smith & Wesson Model 29-2
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Smith & Wesson Model 29-2, which first appeared on the market in 1961, is a fabled revolver which found itself fame
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-3: The Era of Modern Manufacturing
This revision deviated from traditional methods of production that aimed at efficiency and cost-cutting. The most significant change to the 29-3 was removing the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder which were both common features of the Model 29 from its very beginning. Smith & Wesson, however, adopted a new method of crush fit barrel. The effect of this was simplifying the manufacturing process while reducing overall costs.
The 29-4: Enhanced Durability for Heavy Use
The 29-4, launched in 1988, made notable improvements aimed at increasing the longevity of the revolver and enhancing its capability during constant use. Key areas were focused on to enhance durability. The original yoke (cylinder crane) lock-up system was modified to handle long periods of use. In addition, the frame studs were given a radius that minimized wear and tear while boosting reliability. Although these changes did not alter the appearance of the gun, they substantially increased its durability and dependability when used in severe conditions.
POTD: Enhanced Durability for Heavy Use - Smith & Wesson Model 29-4
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Smith & Wesson Model 29-4, which was launched in 1988, made notable improvements aimed at increasing the longevity
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-5: Reinforced for Magnum Power
In 1990 the 29-5 was introduced, and worked on its ability to safely use the powerful cartridge. Most of the changes in the 29-5 were made internally. So that bolt jump could be stopped, S&W lengthened cylinder notches. Moreover, bolts and inner mechanisms were modified in order to minimize battering inflicted by the .44 Magnum’s heavy recoil. This change extended the useful life of this gun, especially for those who shoot full-power magnum loads often.
POTD: Reinforced for Magnum Power - The Smith & Wesson Model 29-5
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! In 1990 the Smith & Wesson Model 29-5 was introduced, which further improved the iconic .44 Magnum revolver
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-6: Ergonomic Evolution
One of the most significant changes in the 29-6, launched in 1994, was the improved ergonomics and accessory options that came with it. The major change that occurred in this model is moving from traditional wooden grips to Hogue rubber Monogrips. These changes increased shooting comfort while taming recoil for handling powerful cartridges like the .44 Magnum. Another significant improvement incorporated into the Model 29-6 was the inclusion of tapped holes for scope mounts. This feature made revolvers more versatile by facilitating hunters and target shooters who wanted to attach optical sights without custom gunsmithing.
POTD: Ergonomic Evolution - The Smith & Wesson Model 29-6
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! One of the most significant changes in the Smith & Wesson Model 29-6 when it was launched in 1994
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-7: The MIM Revolution
A significant stage happened in the 29-7, launched into the market in 1998. Materials and techniques used in manufacturing were modernized, however, major changes took place inside this model. In order to achieve better reliability and ease of maintenance, Smith & Wesson introduced some alterations to the firing pin attachment as well as locking mechanisms. Instead of being ground from a blank and then hand-fitted like their predecessors were, hammers and triggers became products of metal injection molding (MIM). The method enabled more intricate component geometries with minimum cost-effectiveness compromises on strength.
POTD: The MIM Revolution - Smith & Wesson Model 29-7
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! A significant stage in the creation of the famous Smith & Wesson Model 29-7, a .44 Magnum revolver
www.alloutdoor.com
The 29-8: The Mountain Gun Evolution
The 29-8, brought into the market in 2001, is best known for being the mountain gun, with modifications done on the regular model. The Mountain Gun version of the 29-8 was developed for increased portability with no compromise on .44 Magnum cartridge power. It had a lightweight construction that made it easier to carry while hunting or engaging in outdoor activities. It preserved its classical barrel contour for an equilibrium between modern functionality and traditional aesthetics. Moreover, one significant addition was the internal lock mechanism which became standard across several Smith & Wesson revolvers at that time.
POTD: The Mountain Gun Evolution - Smith & Wesson Model 29-8
Smith & Wesson Model 29-8 was brought into the market in 2001 and is best known for being a mountain gun, although there are few details on modifications
www.alloutdoor.com
And now for the rest of the Story...
Curious Relics #095: Not Even Close to Every Variant – S&W Model 29
Last time around we dove into the history of one of the absolutely legendary and beloved pop culture revolvers, the Smith & Wesson Model 29.
www.alloutdoor.com
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