Smith and Wesson Model 29

‘The most powerful handgun in the world’ - Dirty Harry.

A six-shot, double action revolver that used .44 magnum cartridges. In an interesting twist on cause and effect, the Model 29 was developed after the creation of the .44 magnum by legendary rancher and ‘father of big guns’ Elmer Keith. At the time of its creation in 1955, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 was the most powerful production ready handgun. While later handguns were eventually developed to hold even larger rounds, such as the Desert Eagle’s .50 action express, it still retains an enduring popularity and legacy thanks to its presence on the big screen with Dirty Harry (1971).

Specifications

According to Smith&Wession the Model 29 has the following specs:

Weight: 43.9-48.3 oz

Width: 1.7 in

Height: 6.1 in

Capacity: 6 rounds

Its barrel length is variable. At current, Smith & Wesson have 4 inch and 6 inch barrelled Model 29s for sale, but the Model 29 has been made with a barrel as long as 10 inches.. However, the original Model 29-1 had a barrel length of 6.5 inches.

.44 Magnum

• Mass of 16 grams (240 grain).

  • According to ballisticstudies.com the Model 29 fired at 1450 fps. However, the level of recoil proved so strong it stung the hands of the user, and this was lowered to 1350 fps.

• Test firing with a chronograph demonstrates a bullet speed of greater than 1350.

• Can travel up to 230 yards.

• Punch through more than a foot of ballistic gel, an accurate flesh analogue, according to this demonstration.

• Tears through thin metal.

Variations

There are currently 10 models of Smith & Wesson Model 29 handguns. These variations do not impact the firing power of the device. The improvements are related to improving the durability and reliability of the gun.