#smithandwesson

When it comes to big-bore revolvers, few names command as much respect as Smith & Wesson’s 629 series. Taking that legacy even further, the Performance Center variants elevate the platform into something truly special—blending old-school craftsmanship with modern refinement. Available through trusted retailers like Brownells, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 629 Revolver represents the pinnacle of what a .44 Magnum wheelgun can be.

At its core, the Model 629 is built on Smith & Wesson’s large N-frame, a platform designed specifically to handle powerful cartridges like the .44 Magnum. This is not a small or subtle firearm—it’s a full-sized revolver built to manage serious energy and deliver consistent performance. The stainless steel construction gives it both durability and corrosion resistance, while also providing that iconic satin finish that has become synonymous with the 629 lineup. 

What truly sets the Performance Center models apart is the level of attention to detail. These revolvers are hand-tuned by skilled gunsmiths, resulting in smoother actions, more refined triggers, and tighter tolerances than standard production models. The difference is immediately noticeable the moment you cycle the action or press the trigger. Performance Center firearms are widely regarded as the “custom shop” tier of Smith & Wesson, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques to achieve exceptional accuracy and reliability. 

One of the standout features of many 629 Performance Center variants is the unfluted cylinder, which not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to a sense of rugged strength. Paired with a heavy barrel profile, this design helps manage recoil and maintain stability during firing. Given the power of the .44 Magnum cartridge, anything that aids in control is a welcome addition. While recoil is still substantial—as expected from a cartridge of this size—the overall shooting experience is surprisingly manageable, especially with proper grip and technique.

Ergonomics also play a significant role in the appeal of the 629 Performance Center. Many models feature checkered wood grips with finger grooves, offering both a classic aesthetic and functional control. The grip design helps distribute recoil across the hand, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable than one might expect from such a powerful revolver. Combined with the revolver’s weight, this creates a balanced shooting experience that favors control over harshness.

The trigger system is another highlight. Performance Center revolvers are known for their smooth double-action pull and crisp single-action break, making them suitable for both deliberate precision shooting and faster follow-up shots. This level of refinement is one of the main reasons enthusiasts gravitate toward Performance Center models—they simply feel better to shoot.

Sighting systems on the 629 Performance Center are equally well thought out. Adjustable rear sights paired with a high-visibility front sight allow for precise zeroing and improved target acquisition. Some variants even include modern enhancements like optics-ready configurations or integrated rails, bridging the gap between traditional revolver design and contemporary shooting preferences.

Beyond performance, the 629 carries a deep cultural and historical significance. As a stainless steel evolution of the legendary Model 29—the revolver famously associated with the “Dirty Harry” era—it maintains a connection to one of the most iconic handgun lineages in history. Yet, the Performance Center versions push that legacy forward, offering features and refinement that appeal to modern shooters.

From a practical standpoint, the 629 Performance Center is incredibly versatile. It can serve as a range gun, hunting sidearm, or backcountry defense option, particularly in areas where large predators are a concern. The ability to also chamber .44 Special adds another layer of flexibility, allowing shooters to practice with lighter-recoiling ammunition while still having access to full-power Magnum loads when needed. 

Ultimately, the Smith & Wesson 629 Performance Center .44 Magnum is more than just a revolver—it’s an experience. It delivers power, precision, and craftsmanship in a way that few modern firearms can replicate. For those who appreciate the feel of a finely tuned wheelgun and the raw authority of a big-bore cartridge, this revolver stands as one of the most compelling options available today.

I’ve struggled with this exact question plenty of times and calibers over the years. When “is” the right time to get into reloading for a particular caliber? Is it every caliber you own? Just after you get two, three or four firearms in a given caliber? These are sometimes very tough questions to answer and will inevitably vary from shooter to shooter or reloader to reloader. Let’s face it…shooting is very expensive! But reloading is very expensive too…especially these days where it’s the norm to pay $100 for 1k primers for most primers. Match primers cost on average 50% more than standard primers. 

So early this year, I picked up a new revolver, a smith & Wesson 629 chambered in .44 magnum. It was my second .44 magnum firearm behind my Dad’s old Marlin 1894 saddle ring carbine. It was at that moment I started thinking about reloading .44 Magnum. I was trying to source some .44 Magnum rounds locally and was having some issues finding it in stock. Of course when it was in stock, it was expensive. Well past $1.00 per round. A few months later, I decided to pick up yet another firearm in .44 Magnum. I had been eyeballing another lever gun for quite some time and Brownells had received a Henry Big Boy All-Weather in .44 Magnum, so I picked it up. I also picked up 100 rounds of .44 Magnum ammunition from Brownells, and even though their prices and discounts can be hard to beat, it was still well north of $100. It was at that moment I had decided that it was time.

So to prepare to start reloading yet a new caliber, I needed to decide upon which reloading press I planned on using. I own both a Dillon 550 and a Lee classic turret press. Both are wonderful presses, with the Dillon being much faster than the Lee. The Lee is great for small batches which I didn’t see myself reloading more than 100 or so .44 Magnum at a time. Anyone that has shot .44 Magnum realizes that it’s not a caliber that you shoot 100s of rounds in a range session, especially not with a revolver. So the Lee it was. I picked up a set of Lee carbide pistol dies from Brownells, along with some Hornady 225gr XTP projectiles. These are the same ones used in the Leverevolution line from Hornady. Also grabbed 1k Remington 2 1/2 large pistol primers. I had some on hand, but wanted to replenish what I have available. For powder I originally wanted to roll with Hodgson Titegroup, but after some reading, opted for Hodgson H110 to minimize chances of a double load as much as possible. 

So I’m just on my way to reloading .44 Magnum…I hope to write a full report once I settle on a good recipe. So when should you get into reloading a particular caliber? Well the answer for me is how much will I shoot the caliber and how many firearms do I have in a particular caliber. The one exception to this will be of course caliber obscurity, such is the case with my old Japanese Type I in 6.5 Jap. That caliber is non-existent in the open market and must be reloaded for.