Smith & Wesson Model 29 - Variants

Variants

The original Model 29 was superseded by the Model 29-1 in 1960, with modifications made to the ejector rod screw. The Model 29-2 replaced it the following year, with one screw that had secured the cylinder stop spring dropped. The barrel length was shortened from 6 1/2" to 6" in 1979. These two versions are known as "pinned and recessed". "Pinned" means that the barrels are screwed in, and additionally secured by a pin driven through the frame and a notch in the barrel. "Recessed" means that the cylinder holes are recessed so that when loaded, the rim of the cartridges are fully enclosed by the cylinder. In 1982, the cost-cutting Model 29-3 dropped recessed cylinders and pinned barrels for crush-fit barrels.

The -4 and -5, produced from 1988 and 1990 respectively had changes to improve durability for heavy use. In 1994 the 29-6 began production, now fitted standard with rubber Monogrips from Hogue to replace the previous wooden items, and standard tapped holes provided for attaching scope mounts. The 29-7 started production in 1998 with changes to the locking mechanism, the firing pin's attachment, and a hammer and trigger produced with a metal injection molding process.