Smith & Wesson Model 29

by
posted on October 22, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
201210194853-sw-m29-gold-pic2_m.jpg

First introduced as the Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum in 1955, the Model 29 was the original .44 Mag. revolver—and it would go on to attain nearly unparalleled levels of fame in the wheelgun industry.

A one-time holder of the title of "Most Powerful Handgun in the World," the Model 29 still remains the most powerful handgun that some shooters will dare try. Its fame and legendary status, of course, has been bolstered by its starring presence in Clint Eastwood's "Dirty Harry" films—though you may be able to argue that the gun did just as much for Clint as he did for it.

A true legend in the industry, the Model 29 remains a revolver that every firearm enthusiast should at the very least try—and it's an easy addition to the Gun of the Week series.

Technical Specifications:

Caliber: .44 Mag., .44 Spl.
Barrel Length:
4" to 10 5/8"
Total Length: Varies
Capacity: 6 Rounds
Action: Double-Action
Weight Loaded:
3-dot, adjustable rear
MSRP:
$1,019 and up

Multimedia:

Latest

smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss
smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss

Unlocking The Future: Smith & Wesson's "No Lock" Revolvers

The future is shaping up to be a good one for fans of Smith & Wesson revolvers. The iconic American company had released 14 new models thus far in 2025 at the time this was written mid-year. And, with one exception, they have all shared a common feature—no internal lock.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 6, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

FEMA Notes Decline In Disaster Preparedness

A recent report from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) noted a decline in local government preparedness for natural disasters, putting increased pressure on individuals to prepare themselves for emergencies.

Army Announces Type Classification Of New Infantry Rifle, Machine Gun

In May 2025, the U.S. Army’s Soldier Lethality Project at the Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey announced the official type classification of SIG Sauer’s M7 rifle and M250 automatic rifle, previously known as the XM7 and the XM250, respectively.

RXR22: Savage Arms Redefines The Budget Rimfire Rifle

Savage Arms has a long history of producing affordable and accurate rimfire rifles, but with its RXR22, the company is bringing a new level of affordability and modularity to rimfire rifle fans.

SARCO: A Lifetime Covered Up With Surplus Firearm Parts

When it comes to selling gun parts and gun-related military surplus, Charles “Cholly” Steen has been at it for longer than almost anyone. It all started when, as a 5-year-old, he began stashing odds and ends in the drawers of his clothes dresser.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.