629 vs. super blackhawk

4

.44

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Hey guys, got a question for you. In the number 4 edition of the Nosler manual it says something-reguarding the S&W 29/629- like, if you use loads between the .44 special and the .44 mag. it will greatly increase service life.

I know that S&W improved on the strength of their revolvers--was this after this article was written? I know that Smiths aren't the strongest revolvers, but are they really this weak? The only .44 I've got is a Smith 629 (one of the improved ones), and I don't want to wear it out.

How long would a 629 last compared with a Ruger Super Blackhawk (known well for their strength)?

Thanks a bunch for all responces!!-ben
 
Usually just using off-the shelf stuff the gun will last as long as you do. If you start shooting hot-rod stuff like corbons 305gr. penetrator, you're pushing pretty hard. If you go clear over to "hot" handloads, it's a matter of "when" not "if".
 
In the 629 maybe.

The SBH can take as much gnarly .44Mag crap as you can throw at it :D. The frame can handle .454Casull, .475Linebaugh and all kinds of other insane stuff :cool:. Cor-Bons, Garretts, yumyumyumshleeerpBOOM :tongue:. Just spend the $35 for a Belt Mountain base pin with set screw so you don't jar the pin loose, it's a drop-in swap.
 
How about this? Most loads I shoot will be handloads, and my standard handload is 22 grs. H110 behind a 240 gr. Hornady XTP. This is the minimum load in the Speer manual-would a steady diet of these be too much?

As long as you stayed below max loadings of the reload manual, would you be all right?Thanks again-ben
 
I would not worry too much about it firing the load you mentioned. I often load the 240 XTP in my 629 with up to 24.0 of 296 - gun is still just as tight as new. This load has enough power for my purposes. Plus the gun is extremely accurate with this load. I guess I will see firsthand how the 629 holds up over the years. Good luck!
 
Smith 29's and 629's are good for using bullets up to 240 grains, especially if they are not loaded to maximum velocity. For maximum velocity loads and really heavy bullets, the Super Redhawk and Super Blackhawk are the way to go.
 
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