Opinions needed on S&W 29 in nickle

[10-Ring]

I was putting some $$ on the 19 I had seen the other day when my eye was blinded by another S&W revo. Thinking it was stainless, I was really getting familiar w/ it. Then the guy behind the counter tells me its nickle...talk about a buzz kill...
But now I'm thinking, maybe a nickle 29 would be cool. But 1st, I'll ask the experts...how is the nickle finish (for one) and how is this gun in general...is the finish going to be a hassle for any reason? Is it worth $650?
By the way, it's a mod 29 w/ 4" barrel and factory nickle

 

[EJ]

NICKLE IS GREAT!!!

Nickle is a durable finish-- The need for stainless is over emphasised in most circles.
Unless the weapon is going to be used in an exceptionally harsh enviornment and not cleaned regularly than you will never know the difference between nickle and stainless-- except for the brightness. Maybe stay away from Hoppes#9--or at least don't soak or leave it on thefinish for extended periods-- it can get under the nickel and frost the finish--

$650 seems a bit high--but that depends upon your location--
Bluebook shows closer to $300 -- Maybe $400 if it's Pinned and recesed and in near perfect shape--or "S" series // four screw--

It's worth about one and a half times what the Model 19 is--
So judge for yourself--

Don't be afraid of the nickle-- again unless you don't like/want a brighter finish--

 

[stans]

$650 for a nickle plated Smith model 29 sounds high. I recently bought a nickle plated 29-3, six inch barrel, like new condition, fired, but clean and very tight, for $375.

 

[Kahr carrier]

To High $450.00 would be better.

 

[BigG]

It may be the location that accounts for the price difference. I know that Cali has fewer choices than some states.

The large frame (N) Smiths are probably the most endearing revolver I've ever owned. There is nothing like the fit and finish of those blue and nickel 44 Magnums before stainless became the fashion. I would say the blue or nickel Model 29 would be twice as good as a stainless gun in terms of appearance. Durablilty would be equal or better as carbon steel is quite a bit stronger than stainless. Stainless imho is mainly beneficial to the mfr who doesn't have to put a finish on the gun. Time is money so they make out by skipping a step.

Stainless would only benefit the user if in a hostile environment like salt water or keeping the gun sweat soaked or in a wet area. Otherwise, I would take the blue/nickel every time.

 

[10-Ring]

Sounds like at least price wise, I should pass on this one. Oh, well, on to bigger & better

 

[Ala Dan]

Hello There Friends And Neighbor's-

A nickle Smith & Wesson model 29 in LNIB condition
would fetch about $375.00 in my neck of the woods;
here in central DixieLand, unless it really was something
very special. I would probably go $400.00 for a gem mint
model 29 in pristine condition, with the wooden factory
presentation case and all paperwork and accessory's!
And this would only be for 5", 6-6-1/2", and 8-3/8-8-3/4" in
length.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[Archie]

Hey 10 ring!!!!

Where is that shootin' iron? And is it one of the older pinned and recessed guns?

I could use another nickle 29.