S&W's Original 44 Magnum - A rare and beautiful pre-Model 29

Published on November 7, 2019
Duration: 17:59

This video provides an in-depth review of a rare 1956 Smith & Wesson pre-Model 29 chambered in .44 Magnum. The presenter, an experienced firearm enthusiast, details the historical context of the .44 Magnum cartridge's development, crediting Elmer Keith and Smith & Wesson's collaboration. The review highlights the firearm's pristine condition, its 'pre-29' designation, and specific features like the N-frame, 6.5-inch barrel, coke bottle grips, and target hammer. The presenter also shares his decision to fire the historically significant firearm with reduced loads and .44 Special ammunition.

Quick Summary

A 1956 Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum revolver is referred to as a 'pre-Model 29' because it was manufactured before Smith & Wesson officially assigned numerical model designations to their firearms. This rare example showcases features like an N-frame, a 6.5-inch barrel, and original 'coke bottle grips,' representing a significant piece of American firearm history.

Chapters

  1. 00:20Introduction & Presentation Case
  2. 00:40.44 Magnum Cartridge History
  3. 01:34Development Timeline (Early 1950s)
  4. 01:50.44 Magnum Officially Born (1954)
  5. 01:57Smith & Wesson Revolver Development
  6. 02:03The 1956 Pre-Model 29 .44 Magnum
  7. 02:341956 Production Details
  8. 02:45Pre-Model Numbering System
  9. 02:53N-Frame and Barrel Length
  10. 03:07Not a Model 29: The Pre-29
  11. 03:20Unfired Condition Assessment
  12. 04:02Finish and Chamber Condition
  13. 04:21Expert Opinions on Shooting
  14. 04:45Decision to Fire
  15. 04:55Planned Ammunition Types
  16. 05:21Finish and Craftsmanship
  17. 05:47Original Coke Bottle Grips
  18. 06:01Glass Smooth Action
  19. 06:20Target Hammer Features
  20. 06:34Integral Firing Pin
  21. 06:42No Lock Mechanism
  22. 06:49Pinned Barrel Construction
  23. 07:19Turn Ring and Action Feel
  24. 07:36Barrel Markings
  25. 08:08Tight Cylinder to Forcing Cone Fit
  26. 08:30Adjustable Rear Sight
  27. 08:38Fixed Front Sight
  28. 09:00Coke Bottle Grips Explained
  29. 09:40First Shots Fired
  30. 10:07Trigger and Grip Impression
  31. 11:36Firing .44 Special Ammunition
  32. 11:52Single Action Shooting Experience
  33. 12:53Offhand Group Results
  34. 12:56Transition to Handloads
  35. 13:53Handload Group Results
  36. 14:28Confirmation of Firing
  37. 14:36Tight Cylinder Fit Issues
  38. 15:131956 Firearm, 2019 First Fired
  39. 15:34Historical Context of 1956
  40. 15:40The Ten Commandments (1956)
  41. 15:52Elvis Presley's First Hit (1956)
  42. 16:06Elvis on Ed Sullivan (1956)
  43. 16:15Slinky Dog Toy Introduction (1956)
  44. 16:34No Interstate Highways (1956)
  45. 16:41Dwight Eisenhower Presidency
  46. 16:53Conclusion: 1956 Production Year

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum from 1956 a 'pre-Model 29'?

A 1956 Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum is called a 'pre-Model 29' because Smith & Wesson had not yet adopted their system of assigning numerical model designations to their firearms. This particular revolver predates the official introduction of the Model 29.

What is the historical significance of the .44 Magnum cartridge's development?

The .44 Magnum cartridge was developed in the early 1950s as a collaboration, with Elmer Keith playing a crucial role in significantly increasing the power of the .44 Special. The goal was to create a round capable of stopping large, dangerous predators.

What are the notable features of this 1956 Smith & Wesson pre-Model 29?

This 1956 pre-Model 29 features an N-frame, a 6.5-inch barrel, original 'coke bottle grips' known for comfort, a large 'target hammer,' a pinned barrel, and an adjustable rear sight. Its action is described as exceptionally smooth.

Why did the presenter decide to fire a potentially unfired vintage firearm?

Despite its pristine condition, the presenter decided to fire the 1956 pre-Model 29, believing guns are meant to be used. He opted for reduced loads and .44 Special ammunition to minimize wear on this historically significant piece.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Justin Opinion

View all →