Smith & Wesson Model 329
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2003
Also known as: 329 Airlite, 329 Scandium
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 329 is a lightweight hunting revolver built on the large N-frame platform and chambered in .44 Remington Magnum, introduced in 2003 as part of Smith & Wesson's scandium-frame AirLite series. Constructed with a scandium alloy frame that reduces weight while maintaining the structural integrity required for full-power .44 Magnum loads, this six-shot double-action/single-action revolver features a 6.5-inch stainless steel barrel, adjustable rear sight with red ramp front sight, and Hogue rubber grips with finger grooves. Weighing approximately 35 ounces unloaded, the Model 329 offers hunters and backcountry users the stopping power of one of America's most potent handgun cartridges without the burden of traditional steel-framed N-frames that typically weigh 48 ounces or more. The scandium alloy frame construction combines less than one percent scandium with aluminum to dramatically improve tensile strength, creating a material strong enough to handle the 36,000 PSI chamber pressure of .44 Magnum while reducing carry weight by nearly one pound compared to steel equivalents. The revolver can fire both .44 Magnum and the milder .44 Special cartridge, making it suitable for practice sessions with reduced-recoil ammunition. Designed for trail carry, wilderness protection against dangerous game, and hunting medium to large game animals, the Model 329 balances portability with power in a package that can be comfortably carried on extended backcountry trips where weight is a critical consideration.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 997 g (35.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 292 mm (11.50") |
| Barrel Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Height | 152 mm (5.98") |
| Width | 45 mm (1.77") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 53 N (11.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 440 m/s (1444 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1504 J (1109 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 75 m (82 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 483 mm (19.02") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Scandium Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .44 Magnum · primary — also known as .44 Rem Mag, 10.9x33mmR
- .44 Special — also known as .44 S&W Special, .44 Spl
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar
- Features: N Frame, Adjustable Rear Sight, Red Ramp Front Sight, Scandium Alloy Frame, 6 Shot Cylinder, Compensated Muzzle, Exposed Hammer, Rubber Grips
Production
Production years: 2003-present
Part of Smith & Wesson's AirLite scandium-frame revolver series
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Model 329 represents Smith & Wesson's answer to hunters who demanded full-power .44 Magnum capability in a lightweight package suitable for extended carry in the backcountry. Scandium, a rare-earth element, is used in aerospace applications and high-performance bicycle frames for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The N-frame is Smith & Wesson's largest traditional revolver frame size, originally designed in 1908 for the .44 Special cartridge and later strengthened for the .44 Magnum in 1955. The 6.5-inch barrel provides optimal velocity from the .44 Magnum cartridge while maintaining a balanced sight radius for accurate shot placement. Trigger pull weight typically measures approximately 12 pounds in double-action mode. The compensated barrel design features ports near the muzzle to redirect gases upward, reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise during firing. The Model 329 is often compared to traditional hunting revolvers like the Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk, which offer similar power but in heavier steel frames weighing 50+ ounces. Smith & Wesson also produces this frame configuration in shorter 4-inch and 3-inch barrel lengths for those prioritizing concealment over velocity.
Background
When Smith & Wesson introduced the Model 329 in 2003, they revolutionized big-bore revolver carry by proving that scandium alloy frames could safely handle the most powerful revolver cartridges in regular production. The Model 329 became the go-to choice for Alaskan guides, hunters in grizzly country, and backcountry enthusiasts who needed serious stopping power without carrying a four-pound steel anchor on their hip.