Anyone use a S&W PC 629 Deluxe?

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

One on my locals has the 629 PC deluxe with fluted 8 3/8ths barrel at a better price than the 7.5” stealth hunter. I do like the idea of the extra barrel length but I’m wondering if the benefit of another almost another inch is lost with being 5oz lighter?

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

Seriously no 629 fans on here?

I have to say the Stealth has more appeal this second as I’m not sure if an extra 7/8ths of an inch is going to equate to that much velocity gain

[stokesrj]

I love the big frame S&Ws as long as your not going to be shooting them with heavy loads thousands of times. If that is in the realm of possibilities then I would go with a stronger framed gun.
The longer barrel won’t matter much. It will allow a little more velocity, perhaps 25 FPS and a little more precision in aiming but you would have to do extensive testing under controlled conditions to discover that difference. So I would go for whichever you like better. Any difference can be overcome with proper training and practice.

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

Thanks
How do you define heavy loads? My old standard in a 10 inch Dan was 24g of 296 under a 240g Hornady
I’ve been advised by a couple of S&W aficionados that 24.5g is the go. I’m not keen on running 300g Hornady factory ammo or anything of that ilk as I’d go broke

[stokesrj]

Grizzly ammo

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

+P for Rugers only isn’t it?

[stokesrj]

Yes, that is what I meant by heavy loads, most say not to use them in a S&W 29 or derivatives.

[Ringo]

I have hunted with a standard 629 in 8 3/8". It's a sweet shooter. I usually carry it in a shoulder holster unless in bear country.

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

Thanks Ringo, what brand of holster fits long barrelled N frames?

[Gun Barrel Ecologist]

A seemingly odd question, but reasonable in the current times of restrictions on shopping etc; anyone know which is better for larger hands, the Pachmayr Decelerator or Hogue Tamer?
The likelihood of a shop having both to try is 0 and our ranges are shut so I can’t see if any fellow members have a set fitted to try