Description: (THE ORIGINAL "DIRTY HARRY" .44 MAGNUM that was changed prior to production)
For the true collectors out there, here is an extremely rare S&W variation, a Pre Model 29 built in 1956 on the 5-screw frame with a 4" barrel in nickel! Any early .44 Magnum in nickel is a true prize, with 5-screw examples bringing a substantial premium over the slightly later made 4-screw guns. This awesome .44 Magnum was returned to the S&W factory shortly after being built to be refinished in nickel.  For the collector that doesn't want to pay nearly $20,000 for what an unrestored example would command, this represents a serious value and a rare opportunity to advance your collection.
The screenplay for 1971's 'Dirty Harry' went through numerous revisions, including the contributions of writer and firearms enthusiast John Milius. For Dirty Harry's gun, Milius chose the Smith & Wesson Pre Model 29. A 4-inch nickel finished or chrome-plated Model Pre 29 was originally intended, but production struggled to find any examples. With the film date approaching, Milius and Clint Eastwood settled on a blue finished Model 29 with a 6 1/2 inch barrel.

The gun retains 99% of the factory nickel finish which is bright and clear with just incredibly faint and minor aging present. All of the roll markings are crisp and sharp and the 'Cokes Bottle Grips" have some of the best grain we've seen! Bottom line - this is a wonderful example that will display beautifully.
Key Specifications & Features
Frame Design: Features the desirable five-screw or four-screw carbon steel N-frame. The fifth screw (near the top of the sideplate) was phased out during the "Pre-29" era, making 5-screw 4-inch variants particularly scarce.
Finish: The nickel plating was one of two original factory options alongside high-polish blued.
Barrel: The 4-inch barrel is less common than the standard 6.5-inch length and is known for producing significant muzzle blast and "daylight fireballs" due to the high-pressure .44 Magnum cartridge.
Grips: Typically fitted with checkered walnut "Coke Bottle" target grips, which are famous for their palm-filling contour and are highly valued by collectors.
Sights: Equipped with a red ramp front sight (often a Baughman style) and a micro-adjustable rear sight with a white outline.
Weight: Weighs approximately 41.5 oz (unloaded) for the 4-inch configuration