Smith and Wesson 44 Magnum

[Chas]

Coming up on three years since I lost my father and I miss him every day. One of the handguns I inherited was his pride and joy - a N frame Smith and Wesson 44 Magnum. It was built in 1956-57 based on the serial number and has no model number on it (although Wikipidea states the Model 29 designation was applied in 1957). I also received the blue box that it came in from the factory as well.

Unfortunately I never had a chance to shoot it before I left home and I dont remember him ever taking it to the indoor range he shot at as he had some hot loads mixed in his ammo and he didnt think the backstop would stop the bullets (the good old days when revolver clubs could use the basement ranges in high schools that were built for cadet training).

So recently I loaded up some mid range loads (I have no intention of using full house loads in this revolver) using Herco / 240 grain lead semi wadcutters and took it out to the range for handgun league this week. It is only the second time I have fired it since I inherited it it and I have to say it was a pleasure to shoot. I am going to have to find a cleaner powder to load in it as the Herco generates a lot of smoke and some unburned powder residue - but its all I have at the moment.

I was very pleased with the results, this was the best target I was able to shoot at 20 yards in our indoor range. I just wish dad was here so that we could have shot it together.

 

[gdawg]

That is a beauty. Those early models with the original cokes are something special. I’m sure your father would be happy to know you are appreciating the heirloom he left you while remembering him.

 

[84fuegoturbo]

Beautiful pistol, thanks for sharing with us.

 

[fire@will]

One of the most enduring and endearing things that one can leave behind, is the good memories that their loved ones share with them.
As for loads - I always use plated bullets (much cleaner than lead) and if I'm not looking for a really hot load (W296/H110), I find that Longshot is a nice powder for .44 Rem Mag - under a 210 gn or 240 gn. You know your shooting a magnum, but it doesn't beat you or the gun up.

 

[LouF]

Just got my new model 29 and shoot's great also.Classic revolver!

 

[johnl]

Nice classic, hopefully someday you can pass it down to your kids too.

 

[Harry Callahan]

Very nice pre-29 you have there. Sure your father, god bless his soul, is proud to see you enjoying it and printing nice targets.

 

[peterem]

That is a fantastic background story on a most iconic wheel gun.
thank you for sharing this with us.

p

 

[Falconflyer]

I've had an M-29-2 for many years, it's the second one I've owned after I foolishly sold the first one. They're some of S&W's better work in my opinion. Your fortunate to have the gun and the fond memories of your father.

 

[josh1976]

Thanks for the great backstory. The 1st pistol I shot was a S&W .38 spl. My best friends dad would take us to the gravel pit. He was a detective for the local police force. I was probably 12. After shooting it, I distinctly remember telling myself I would own one...one day. I now have a model 69 .44 mag. I love shooting, and I have fantastic memories of my buddies dad. He treated me like one of his own. He passed away a number of years ago now. Every time I go to the range it takes me back and I remember those days. Too bad the liberals just right us off as criminals. Sad really. And infuriating.

 

[Brutus]

Yes, early Smiths have a magic all of thier own! Personally through several 44 Specials and 44 Magnums, a repeated formula that delivers paper punching accuracy with just enough juice for myself: 6.4 grains of Red Dot under 240 PB. Now it's a little bit dirty however in any modern revolver it's very very accurate 25-50 yards. Consider it almost top end power in 44 Special. Enjoy sir.