SMITH & WESSON 29-3
Posted Jun 15, 2023
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-3 (or "29-3," for short) is a classic, ultra-reliable handgun. Produced from 1977 to 1999, the 29-3 was the third iteration of the Model 29, a large frame, double-action revolver chambered in .44 Magnum. It took everything great about the Model 29 and made it even better, with a few tweaks to the design. Today, the Model 29-3 remains a popular choice for shooters who demand functionality and accuracy in a medium-to-large-caliber handgun.
As with all Smith & Wesson revolvers, the Model 29-3 is built using the company's single-piece cylinder and frame, with the barrel and cylinder being mated together upon assembly. This makes for an exceptionally strong and durable revolver. The 29-3 also features the company's proprietary locking system, called the “E-Z-Lock," to help ensure the revolver's cylinder and barrel remain mated together. This system is simple and reliable, which has helped make the Model 29-3 a reliable revolver for over 40 years.
The main feature of the 29-3 is the adjustable rear sight. On the original Model 29, the rear sight was fixed, and the shooter had to adjust the point of impact by adjusting the load. This led to inaccurate shooting because the gun had to be re-zeroed every time the load changed. With the 29-3, the shooter can adjust the rear sight to align with the point of impact, helping to ensure accurate shooting with any load.
The 29-3 is also equipped with a half-shrouded barrel, as opposed to its predecessor, which had a fully shrouded barrel. This allows for the use of a scope mount, allowing shooters to equip their 29-3 with an optic. Additionally, the 29-3 also features side-framed cutouts near the front of the frame, and these can be used for mounting a Crimson Trace laser. The 29-3's inclusion of these features also shows that Smith & Wesson was ahead of its time, and was one of the first to build an optic-ready revolver.
In terms of design, the Model 29-3 is a handsome, polished handgun. The 29-3 features the company's classic checkered walnut stocks, which are contoured to fit comfortably in the shooter's hand. The frame is made of stainless steel with a black finish, and features matte sides that are machined at an angle, giving the 29-3 the classic Smith & Wesson look.
The 29-3 is chambered in .44 Magnum and is equipped with a six-round cylinder. The cylinder is non-fluted, meaning it has no grooves, and is smooth on the outside. This makes for an exceptionally smooth reload, as there are no catch points to snag on the clothing or holster. The 29-3 can also be equipped with moon clips, which can help speed up reloads, as rounds don't have to be individually loaded into the chambers.
As far as shooting goes, the 29-3 is an extremely accurate handgun. The adjustable rear sight allows shooters to precisely adjust the point of impact. This makes the 29-3 ideal for plinking, target shooting, and hunting. Despite its large size, the 29-3's weight and design make it fairly well-balanced, and recoil is minimal.
In conclusion, the Smith & Wesson Model 29-3 is an excellent handgun. Its design is timeless, and its strength and reliability are unmatched. The adjustable rear sight is an excellent addition that allows shooters to precisely adjust the point of impact. The 29-3 can also be equipped with a scope mount and/or Crimson Trace Laser. Additionally, the 29-3 is an exceptionally accurate, low-recoiled revolver that will serve its owner faithfully for many years to come.
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Classic design: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is an iconic design that deserves mention in any discussion of revolvers. It is a classic in the world of handguns both as a venerable design and as a symbol of decades of American gun culture.
• Timeless look: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is easily recognizable for its classic lines and classic engraving. It is, in many ways, the perfect representation of the timeless look of the revolver.
• Quality construction: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is crafted with a high attention to detail. Its parts are crafted in such a way that they guarantee accuracy, reliability, and longevity.
• Power: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is powerful enough to stop most threats. It is chambered for the .44 Magnum, a round that is capable of taking a variety of large game.
Cons
• Ammo availability: The .44 Magnum ammunition used in the Smith & Wesson 29-3 can be difficult to find in some areas. This can put a damper on your shooting fun.
• Expense: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is a high-end revolver. The cost of the revolver and the ammunition can add up quickly, making it an expensive choice for many shooters.
• Weight: The Smith & Wesson 29-3 is a heavy revolver. While it can be an asset on the range, it can make carrying the revolver unpleasant and inconvenient.
Who Should Buy
Smith & Wesson 29-3 is a powerful revolver and is intended for experienced shooters. It is not a gun suitable for beginners or those who lack proper firearms training and safety knowledge. This gun is meant for experienced shooters who are looking for a reliable and accurate gun for a variety of shooting applications. It is also ideal for serious collectors who appreciate the iconic design of the Smith & Wesson 29-3.
Comparisons
| Features | Smith & Wesson 29-3 | Smith & Wesson 686-4 | Smith & Wesson Model 57 | Smith & Wesson 360PD Airlite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .44 Magnum | .357 Magnum | .41 Magnum | .357 Magnum |
| Length | 10.88" | 7.6” | 11.25" | 6.3" |
| Width | 1.72" | 1.48" | 1.75" | 1.24" |
| Height | 5.5" | 5.5” | 7.53" | 4.7" |
| Weight (unloaded) | 44.5 oz | 39.2 oz | 47 oz | 13.3 oz |
| Barrel Length | 6.5" | 4" | 6.5" | 1.87" |
Features / Specs
• Model: Smith & Wesson 29-3
• Caliber: .44 Magnum
• Capacity: 6 rounds
• Barrel Length: 6.5”
• Overall Length: 12.5”
• Weight: 42.6 oz
• Trigger Pull: 9.5–13 lbs
• Frame: Round Butt
• Finish: Bright nickel
Popular Accessories
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The most popular accessories for the Smith & Wesson 29-3 include: grips, holsters, night sights, scope mounts, sights, lasers, recoil buffers, bore sight kits, barrel ports, trigger guards, and speed loaders.
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson Model 29-3 is a reliable and accurate handgun that works well in most self-defense situations. This revolver has a high degree of accuracy due to its unique design. The revolver is equipped with a 6-inch barrel and adjustable sights, allowing shooters to adjust for accuracy. With a double-action trigger pull of roughly 8 pounds, and front and rear sights, this revolver is easy to control and handles with precision. The Model 29-3 also has reliable performance, firing .44 Magnum rounds accurately at distances up to 25 yards. In addition, the frame of the revolver is constructed of solid steel, and the blued finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear. All of these features of the Model 29-3 make it an ideal choice for personal defense or hunting.
