Hammer down on live round?

[bjk7]

I am in the process of picking up a mint S&W 29 with matte blue finish, 2.5in bbl, pre-lock, firing pin on the hammer, but not pinned and recessed.

Can you carry this with the hammer down on a live round?

Also, anyone know when this particular gun might have been produced?

Thanks,
bjk7

 

[David E]

Yes, you can. There is a hammer-block safety that allows this.

Post a pic. There have been a few versions that fit your generic description. Roughly, 90's or later.

 

[Drail]

Yes. The hammer block and the rebound slide both block the hammer from hitting the cartridge under the hammer. Unless the trigger is pulled the hammer is locked in position. Really excellent design.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

There are very few designs that require you to carry on an empty cylinder and the S&W M29 isn't one of them. Old Ruger Revolvers and Colt SAA revolvers and some of their clones are a totally different matter.