I was shooting my 4 inch 329pd recently and after cleaning, I noticed that the hammer can be cocked (SA) and pushed forward easily without touching the trigger. I know this revolver model has service issues, top strap cutting, stretching cylinder, etc... The hammer doesn't contact the firing pin because trigger is not depressed. I have tried 4 other N frames. None would push off when cocked in SA mode. As of yet I have not experienced any trouble with the "INFERNAL" lock. I am leaning toward sending it in for service, as it is I don't want to shoot it. My question is. When I get it back from Smith and Wesson, should I keep it as a curiosity and shoot it sparingly or trade it on down the road. I should note that I also have 4 inch 29-2 , 629-4 ,and a MagnaPort tuned 629-4. I don't think I would miss this one. Suggestions? MK

I have one and have shot it extensively for years and not had any problems. I do not, however, use heavy or "maximum loads." I love mine for carry when on horseback on a "leisure ride;"

ie: no business expected but just in case.

Is yours strictly factory, or has it had a "trigger job?"

Sounds like you have already made your decision:

"I don't think I would miss this one."

I have had one since they came out, shot it extensively, and have had zero issues with the gun. Like Greg states, it is a dream to pack hiking or on horseback. I also have the 325PD (45 ACP), and an 357PD (41 Mag). No issues.

Doc

Ive wanted a 329PD since I first saw them, but just seem to find other things to get before I have all the money saved up for it!??
How are they overall for holding up/reliability? I've heard/read that most are UNhappy with them and don't waste my money ..? I would love to have one, but if its a "Problem Child" maybe I should put my $$$$ towards something else (like a 629 Competitor)or BUY BOTH,,, LOL ??? I have a few guns in 44mag ((S&W 29-2, Ruger SBH, Marlin 1894P and an 1894CB)) and its my favorite caliber by far, so I know we just CANT have too many 44mags!!! I appreciate any/all feedback that you give. I handload so it wouldn't have to be digest full snort loads constantly...

Thank you
BloodGroove4570

As far as I know, no trigger work or anything other than factory. I bought it used at a gunshop. Apparently the original owner shot 6 rounds and traded it at a loss! I have only shot full house loads on 2 occasions to familiarize and sight in. Otherwise I use 240 grain lead Keith style boolits over 8.0 grains of Unique. Normally does all I need. I like the revolver, but online all I read is trouble with these. I am heartened to hear of others with no problems. I will send back to S&W, then give it a second chance. It is nice to pack during woods bumming. I really appreciate the responses. Feel free to continue with personal experiences. MK

I would not give up my 329PD. It is just about the best backup sidearm and all-around woods gun I've found for my needs, especially now with a set of Meprolight sights. Mine has not been shot "extensively", but it has seen on the order of 1000+ various factory 44 Spl. and shot loads, and about 300 rds. of Remington and Winchester 240 gr. standard mag loads (I don't handload as of yet). I don't like the internal lock either, but in all fairness, I've never had it lock up on recoil with standard loads. IMHO, it's pretty enjoyable to shoot with light fodder, and accurate enough for all defensive business. I bought this not as a routine range piece but for a very specific purpose, which is as a last-ditch defensive gun when out in the woods, and treat it as such. Which is to say, I carry it often and shoot it enough to maintain proficiency.

Any machine can have problems. Even a revolver. You have one that you paid a premium for the s/w logo. That logo comes with good customer support. Use it and get it fixed. Once fixed, you will either be comfortable with it or not. That is a call only you can make. If you are comfortable, keep it. If you aren't, you have to decide what to do with it. Are you comfortable with selling a 'problem gun'? If you bill it as such you will get less for it, but you will get more out of it, maybe.
I would contact the manufacture and see what they are willing to do. I have worked with them just once, but they were more than reasonable.
I've always wanted to shoot one of them. I'm a fan of the .44 myself, just never had the opportunity to shoot one yet. I heard someone say they were mad of 'hurtyourhandium', then I was watching the movie 'Avatar' and they were there to mine 'unobtainium'. I had to wonder what kind of hand cannon you could make with that.

dogsbreath

Waiting on the Return to Manufacturer tag. Hoping for the best. MK

The hammer and trigger mate at the sear. If this section is worn on either part then the result is what you have. This normally occurs because someone who didn't know what they were doing tried to do a trigger job. It could occur from extensive use, but it's not as likely. People lie to pawnbrokers all the time to try to get a better deal and I doubt S&W will cover the work if they find that the gun has been tampered with.

Received the revolver back from S&W today. Safety issue is fixed. Still nice fit and action. Haven't shot it yet but I don't anticipate any issues. Very happy with customer service. No charges and no shipping either way. I will keep this little loud monster! I certainly thank all of you that chimed in. MK

See? in the life span of this gun, this was just a blip. They made it good, you seem happy. I'd still like to shoot one. Hint hint....


Dogsbreath

Hey mingokid,

I am glad that you made that decision; now if you decide to sell it, you will have a clear conscience, and the gun is still "factory fresh."

Keep us posted, and if you decide to sell it, you can post it here in the Classifieds and it will probably sell fairly quickly.

Best,

Gregg

If it shoots as it has in the past, I believe it is a keeper!