The original Model 29 was superseded by the Model 29–1 in 1960, with modifications made to the ejector-rod screw. The Model 29-2 replaced it the following year, with one screw that had secured the cylinder-stop spring being deleted. The barrel length was shortened from in 1979. These two versions are known as "pinned and recessed". "Pinned" means that the barrels are screwed in and secured by a pin driven through the frame and a notch in the barrel. "Recessed" denotes the rear of the bored cylinder holes being countersunk, so that, when loaded, the cartridge rims are fully enclosed by the cylinder. In 1982, the cost-cutting Model 29-3 dropped recessed cylinders and pinned barrels for crush-fit barrels. This pistol was developed from 1967 to 1972 to be used by
tunnel rats in the
Vietnam War. The QSPR was tested on the battlefield in 1969, and an improvement and testing program ran from 1969 to 1972. It never officially entered service. The US withdrawal from Vietnam reduced interest in the QSPR weapon, and the program ended in 1972 although unsubstantiated rumors claim the QSPR may have been used by CIA assassins during the Cold War and continues to be used by so-called "Black Book teams". A Russian handgun introduced in 2002, the
OTs-38 Stechkin silent revolver, is described as using a system virtually identical to the QSPR.
Mountain Gun Variation The Mountain Gun was introduced in 1989 as a lightweight version of the Model 29 designed to be "carried often and shot little". The barrel profile is a reprise of the original design. Early version 29-4 backpacker with 2.5" barrel (very rare). A Smith & Wesson Model 629 with a 3" barrel called the "Trail Boss" was produced for the distributor, RSR.
Other variants • In 1985, Smith and Wesson issued the Model 29-3 Elmer Keith Commemorative Edition in 2,500 units. In 1986, it issued 100 deluxe versions of the commemorative, with an acid-etched portrait of Keith and his signature in gold. • On January 26, 2006, Smith & Wesson announced the 50th Anniversary Model 29. Identical to the previous models except for the gold inlaid trademark on the side cover, the new internal lock mechanism, and a non-fluted cylinder. • On January 1, 2007, Smith & Wesson announced the reissue of the Model 29 as an engraved model in S&W's Classics line. • The Smith & Wesson Model 629 Stealth Hunter has a
ported barrel with a full-length under lug for increased stability and recoil reduction. The barrel-cylinder gap is , with a ball-detent lockup between the frame and cylinder crane that provides increased strength. The entire revolver is made of a stainless steel, with a glare-reducing matte black finish. It comes with slip-resistant synthetic grips. • The 329NG is a
scandium-framed revolver with PVD-coated cylinder and tritium sights. It is part of the NightGuard line. ==Gallery==