S&W model 29 identification

[travmsns]

I have a guy who is looking to sell a S&W mod 29 44 mag blued with a 4" barrel that he claims is mint. I know nothing about identifying Smiths. I know about 29-1, 29-2, and 29-3 models. Will it have that printed right on the gun? If not, how can I tell which model it is?

How much should I offer him if it's a:
29-1?
29-2?
29-3?

The guy needs money and I'm not really looking for another pistol right now but I know I can get a good deal on it so I just want to know ballpark what I should offer. He has no idea on the value and I'm not looking to stick it to him, but at the same time I'm not going to pay top dollar as I don't need it really.

 

[SaxonPig]

I'm no expert, but since nobody else has spoken up yet, I'll offer my 2 cents.

The pre-model marked 44 Magnums bring a lot. In very good condition maybe around $2,000 or so. Not sure if there are any pre-29s with 4" barrels as that length was offered after the gun had been in production for awhile.

The 29-1s are rare and bring a real premium. They were only made for a year or so before the -2s came out.

The -2s are fairly common but still fetch a pretty penny. The 4" is usually the most sought after and brings the most. For a real nice 4" 29-2 I would expect to pay $600-$700.

The values on the -3s and later models are less. A good -3 will sell for $400 or so.

This thread will likely be moved to the revolver forum and at the top of that forum is a sticky with some S&W info that might help you.

 

[travmsns]

Sorry, posted in the wrong forum. Mods, please move to the revolver forum.