S&W Internal lock question

[Blacklabman]

I am thinking about buying a new 629 6". We all know that these are IL standard.
I have heard many complaints about the IL and Airweight revolvers. I have seen a 329 lock up myself. I am not here to start a debate, but ask a question.
Has anyone ever seen(not he said, she said stuff) a revolver such as the 629 have problems with the IL?
Thanks.

 

[Erich]

Not the N-frame 629, but my all steel J-frame 60-15 did. Search "oafishly" if you want to read the whole story - I just can't bring myself to post it yet again.

 

[Old Fuff]

To the degree that the S&W lock malfunctions, it seems to do so in lightweight guns with relatively powerful cartridges that cause a sharp, quick recoil. I don't know if this would translate into a heavier revolver or not. But if it was a concern I would solve the issue by buying an older model without a lock (my choice) or buy the new gun and disable the lock. One drop of red locktite would do it.

 

[Blacklabman]

Thanks for the replies.
Old Fuff,
The red locktite, had not even crossed my mind.

 

[Stainz]

I bought a new 6" 629 (SKU 163606) 8/05 and a new 4" 629 (SKU 163603) 4/06. Both soon sported the S&W's Accessory sourced ($35) Hogue .500 Magnum rubber grips, the best recoil control I feel that is available - check out the feel of those grips on any new .460/.500. These firearms join the 6" 66, 4" 625's, and 5" h-l 686+ I have - all with IL's and none ever having experienced a problem. I don't personally know a soul who has had an 'IL' problem.

The 6" 629 is a fine .44M - it's lighter muzzle points more easily - and, undoubtedly, will rise more under recoil than it's full lug brethren. It, and the standard 4" 629, share the same larger hammer & trigger, as well as w/o rr & or ftr sights. So similar, yet so different. Fun firearms... get one, you'll want the other - eventually!

I also exchanged the OEM hammer spring with a Wolff standard power for use with any boxed ammo - a great improvement. They are fantastic revolvers.

Stainz