New Production Model 629s

[LSP552]

Checking for experience with new S&W 629s, especially the 4" version. I know there are well documented lock failures related to hard kicking Airweights. Have we heard anything related to the N frames? Any general impressions or comments? I hate the lock, but it's hard to find pre-lock 629s around here. Would likely neuter the lock anyway.

I know the Ruger Redhawk is probably a better hard use choice, but I really don't care for the feel, handling characteristics or the trigger. Thoughts on choosing between a 4" Redhawk and new 629?

Thanks

Ken

[Hizzie]

How about the snubby Alaskan 44? Mine is practically pleasant to shoot. John Taffin did some testing on the short tube. A Wolff spring kit and some of Lance's hammer and trigger shims clean up the action quite a bit. A full polish job by someone familiar with action work (above my pay grade) could do wonders.


Ruger’s .44 Magnum 2-3/4" Alaskan

Load MV 5 Shots/
15 Yards (inch)
Black Hills 300 JHP 1,050 1-1/4
Cor-Bon 320 Hard Cast 1,163 2
Buffalo Bore Heavy 340 LBT 1,260 2
Garrett 310 HammerHead 1,093 1-1/4
Garrett 330 HammerHead 1,107 1-5/8
Hornady 300 XTP-JHP 997 1-5/8

[GJM]

I have more than a few 329, 629, and Mountain Gun S&W revolvers in .44 magnum. A buddy had an early out of the box failure with a NIB current production 629, necessitating a trip back to the mother ship, year before last. I had massive problems with a four inch .500.

I think you are rolling the dice with most any current production Smith, including the revolvers, but they have excellent CS, unless your problem is a 9 that won't shoot.