S&w 296?

[stanley_white]

I've seen someone on here post about a S&W 296.

Anyone know of this beast?

I searched around but can't seem to find an answer. Maybe my search-fu is weak.

As I understand it the 296 is a .44 special with a hammer shroud?

Anyone? Bueller?

 

[orionengnr]

Yep. Keep searching.

The 296 is hammerless, and the 396 has an exposed hammer. Each is a 5-shot, 3" AirLite ~ 24 oz revolver. I owned a 396 for a while--sounded like a great carry revolver.

In my experience, it was much like the other AirWeight and AirLite revolvers I've owned--great in concept, somewhat less so in execution. Recoil was considerable, physical size was larger than a 3" alloy 1911 while capacity was less, and they are pricey to boot. I came to realize that I conceal 3" 1911 easier and shoot it much better.

Lots more choices in ammo and leather, too. And no Lock

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

I've heard of it. S&W 296

A L-frame-sized, aluminum-frame/titanium cylinder, shrouded/concealed hammer, five-shot .44 Special. I am not sure what "tactical niche" this fits, and apparently neither did the buying public, because they only made it for a very short time.

 

[stanley_white]

Thank you all!

-Stan

 

[Gordon]

Top one is a 296, bottom 7 shot .38+p is a 242. These guns are no lock and very nice carry guns IMHO.

 

[jhark123]

I only own the 396, which is a 3.25 inch versus the 296 at 2 inches. I love the 396 and always thought the 296 would be great for coat pocket carry.