Model 629s with the barrel pin and counterbored chambers are being recognized by collectors as desirable guns to have in their collection. However, not much is published on the prototype Model 629s that were produced in 1978 prior to introducing the stainless 44 Magnum to the shooting public on December 1, 1978. Of course, this new revolver was announced in a more general way when it was featured in a story and on the cover of the March 1979 issue of Shooting Times. This commentary features a prototype Model 629 with serial number N629100. The story begins in November 1978 when this revolver was assembled by Roy Jinks and taken with five others to the NASGW as part of the factory display. This particular revolver was used by various gun writers in 1979 for stories on the new stainless 44 Magnum and by Mr. Jinks on a bear hunting trip. Unfortunately, no bear was taken, but I am sure a good time was had on the trip. In April 1980, Mr. Jinks returned N629100 to S&W where it was completely refurbished by the Service Department (the revolver has 4 80 and R-B inside a rectange stamped on the grip frame). In the fall of 1980, this revolver was fitted with one of the new 8 3/8-inch barrels and ultimately delivered to Dave Simons, Vice President of Law Enforcement Sales for S&W.
As you can see, this Model 629 really does have a story to tell. I would also like to add that this story would have never been known if it was not for the dedication and thorougness of Roy Jinks in documenting S&W's firearms in his factory letters and his writings, but that is "another story to be told". Thanks Roy.
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As you can see, this Model 629 really does have a story to tell. I would also like to add that this story would have never been known if it was not for the dedication and thorougness of Roy Jinks in documenting S&W's firearms in his factory letters and his writings, but that is "another story to be told". Thanks Roy.
