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10 Handguns to Own Before You Die

 (10 Photos)

A “bucket list” refers to a list of things one wants to accomplish before “kicking the bucket.” The phrase was popularized in the 2007 movie, “The Bucket List,” but there are references that predate the film. If a bucket list can be things to do and places to go—why not guns to own? I’ve compiled a list of those I believe a handgun enthusiast should have at some time in his or her life.

  • Colt Single Action Army
  • Colt 1911 Government Model
  • Smith & Wesson Model 27
  • Smith & Wesson Model 29
  • Smith & Wesson Chiefs Special
  • Colt Woodsman
  • Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan
  • Browning Hi Power
  • Walther PPK
  • Glock 22
Smith & Wesson Model 29
Posted by: Jerry Lee

Smith & Wesson Model 29

At one time, the Model 29 really was the most powerful handgun in the world, and it’s still the most powerful most of us can handle. Because of its place in history, you should have one. Created by Remington and Smith & Wesson, and based on a lot of load work by writer Elmer Keith, the .44 Mag. cartridge came out in 1955. The original gun was simply known as the “Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum.” It is essentially the same handgun as the Model 27 except for the caliber. By 1957 it was known as the Model 29. The gun received star-status coverage in the shooting magazines of the late ‘50s with many stories about hunters taking on various species of dangerous game. When “Dirty Harry” hit the theaters in 1971, two legends were made: Clint Eastwood and the Smith & Wesson .44 Mag. It’s a heavy kicker, so go with the 6.5-inch barrel if you can find one. You can also shoot .44 Spls., which is a lovely cartridge.

  • Mack Missiletoe

    9/29/2012 9:37:10 PM

    I never realized how bit the .44 revolvers are. They're huge! Not for me... sorry. I prefer .357

  • C. J. Hall

    8/22/2012 5:54:43 PM

    Personally, I prefer the Dan Wesson .44 because of its' interchangable barrels, and the barrel tension adjustment, which can tune its' accuracy..

  • Larry Shackleford

    6/13/2012 5:38:59 PM

    I wanted one all my life and the one in the pic is just like mine.Would not take nothing for it.

  • Jon Bee

    6/13/2012 12:28:20 AM

    I literally wore one out in 17,000 rounds. When I had it sent it back to the factory to be tightened up, they returned as was and said. " I needed a new one."

  • Tom

    6/12/2012 5:53:38 PM

    Maybe. I shot it in its .357 config and its a monster. The .44 should be fun.