Why is Umarex not selling the 6.5" M29 in the USA?

[Ethan Verity]

Umarex had recently introduced my absolute favorite handgun as a BB gun replica, the S&W Model 29! I was very excited, until I realized they were not going to be selling the ONE barrel length I want (6.5") in the United States! They do make this model in 6.5", but for some reason only the 8 3/8" and 3" versions are being sold in the United States. The 6.5" is available only in Europe.

I asked Umarex why, but did not receive an explanation... only the vague "In steel BB we only offer the 8" in the U.S. Sorry about that." .....

So what's the deal? Does it have something to do with licensing, since S&W is currently making the real 6.5" Model 29 over here, but no longer makes it in 8 3/8" or 3"? I don't see why else Umarex would choose not to sell the most popular barrel length to one of their largest geographic markets, especially since a lot of this gun's popularity is from the Dirty Harry series.

Here is a picture of the elusive 6.5" replica, from a Europe based review. (Link)

 

[Ethan Verity]

Well, sure enough I did finally bite the bullet and get the 8 3/8" version anyway, despite really wanting the 6.5" model. I am still very happy with it! Pictured here alongside my 1970s vintage real steel S&W Model 29-2. Umarex gave good attention to detail on this one, and I have spent most of the afternoon blasting ice cubes, cans, and paper targets. The replica grips are modeled after the current production Model 29-10 grips, and in that respect they are an exact match regarding geometry. The airgun trigger pull is fairly good also, however it is no where near as nice as the real thing. It's still worth it, this is a great addition to my replica airgun collection!