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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless or Smith & Wesson New Departure (nicknamed by collectors as the Lemon Squeezer) is a double-action revolver that was produced from 1887 to 1940 by Smith & Wesson. Based on the Smith & Wesson Model 2 double-action design, the revolver incorporated an internal hammer and an external grip safety on its back-strap. It was chambered in .32 S&W and .38 S&W calibers; these revolvers were discontinued prior to World Wa …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson Model 17 is a six-shot double-action revolver that uses .22 LR rounds. It is based on Smith & Wesson's medium-sized K-frame. The Model 16 and Model 17 were originally part of the company's Pre-World War 2 Hand Ejector series in the 1930s. After World War 2, these two revolver models were introduced as companion pieces, known as the K-32 and K-22, respectively. The K-32 Masterpiece (Model 16) was first launched in 1935 and was chambered in .32 S …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson Model 29-2 is a legendary double/single-action revolver, renowned for its powerful .44 Magnum chambering and association with both hunting and cinematic history. Built on Smith & Wesson’s robust N-frame, this revolver features a 6.5-inch pinned barrel with a shrouded extractor rod, a configuration known for its balance between accuracy and manageable recoil. The nickel finish enhances its durability and aesthetic appeal, giving it a strik …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Introduced in 1978, the Smith & Wesson Model 629 is a stainless steel version of the Model 29. At the time of its introduction, the Model 29 was the most powerful production handgun. However, it was later overtaken by handguns chambered for the larger .454 Casull and .50 Action Express cartridges. It was made famous worldwide by association with the fictional character "Dirty Harry" Callahan. The 629 model designation derives f …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson 631 is a double/single-action revolver chambered in .32 H&R Magnum or .32 S&W, built on a round butt frame with three screws. It features a 6-shot fluted cylinder with a 1.44" nominal length, crafted from stainless steel. The 631 comes in two barrel configurations: a 2" barrel with fixed sights or a 4" barrel with a 1/8" red ramp front sight and a white outline, along with a micrometer-click rear sight. It also has a narrow top rib and Gonc …