Looking for info on S&W .44 magnum

[advantage1one]

I got bit by the .44 magnum bug! I have a number of handguns, one being the .357 mag 686P which is an incredible gun. My dilemma is this: I like the looks of the 629 Classic with the 5" barrel and full underlug, and the same for the 629 4" with partial underlug. This gun will be used for paper targets, maybe some hunting in the future, and SD/HD. Which would be a better all-around pistol...I've got experience in handguns so the recoil, weight, etc. will be no problem. But please don't tell me to buy one of each, because I probably will! I'm looking for any experience you might want to share on these fine S&W revolvers...any impressions are welcome. Thanks in advance.

 

[Bubba613]

Not a huge difference between them. I'd say the 4" is more versatile and probably has better resale value.

 

[theNoid]

I would personally opt for the longer barrel and full underlug for the longer sight radius and extra weight to aid against muzzle flip. Not only that but I just love long barreled guns with full underlugs

Noidster

NO WAIT!!!! Buy both....

 

[glockman19]

OK I have both the 686+ 4" and the 629 full lug 5".

theNoid,
You have it right.

I would personally opt for the longer barrel and full underlug for the longer sight radius and extra weight to aid against muzzle flip. Not only that but I just love long barreled guns with full underlugs

1) I like full lugged barrels
2) the 4" 686 & 5" 629 are perfectly balances IMHO. (I hate barrel heavy revolvers)
3)when I reach into the safe I know the longer barreled revolver is the 629.
4) The 629 goes great with a marlin 1894SS in .44mag as does the 586 and the 1894c in .357.

I'd get the 629 5", Duh! it's a great gun. My other option was a Ruger Super Blackhawk but I prefer the trigger on the S&W's.

 

[dbriannelson]

What you're getting here is a survey of what other people like, as you'd expect with this question.

I like 4" 629s. Favorite revolver of all time. I've got two of them and if I find more used in good condition, I'll get more.

Longer barrels are more comfortable to shoot and easier to shoot well. Shorter barrels are easier to carry and handier overall. Seems to me that if your plans include a lot of carrying and a little shooting, shorter is better. And vice versa for the other way around.

I'm pretty sure you'll be happy with whichever you choose.

-Don

 

[CH47gunner]

I have the 5" Classic - the extra weight of the barrel & full lug make it a pleasure to shoot even with Magnum loads.
That being said, if you're going to use it for a field/woods gun, then go for the 29/629 4". The 4" partial lug is a bit more difficult to shoot but, the saving in weight & size will make a difference if/when packing it all day.
Pic of my 629-6 5" Classic.

Bruce