The S&W 629 is a reliable and versatile revolver, but iron sights can limit your target acquisition speed. A red dot sight can be a game-changer, particularly for close-quarters shooting.
This guide will explore the factors to consider when choosing a red dot sight for your S&W 629, such as weight and footprint, and recommend some of the best red dot options that are well-suited for revolvers.
Note: This article reflects my personal opinions. While the products mentioned may not be perfect for everyone, they might be useful for some readers.
Top 3 Best Red Dot Sights for S&W 629 in 2024
Trijicon RMR Type 2
I adore my S&W 629. It's a classic, powerful revolver, but I'll be honest, the iron sights aren't amazing for fast shooting or older eyes like mine. That's where the Trijicon RMR Type 2 comes in. It's a miniature powerhouse that took my 629 to the next level.
Specifications
Magnification: 1x
Dot Size: 3.25 MOA or 6.5 MOA options
Weight: 1.2 oz (with battery)
Battery Life: Up to 4 years (CR2032 battery)
Construction: Forged Aluminum
Waterproof: Submersible to 66 feet
Best Features
Tiny but Mighty: The RMR's small size keeps the profile of the 629 sleek and snag-free, ideal if you holster it.
Bombproof: Trijicon is synonymous with toughness. This thing can handle the recoil of even the hottest .44 Magnum loads.
"Always On" Reliability: Knowing the dot is there when you present your gun is incredibly reassuring.
Advantages
Lightning-Fast Sight Picture: Makes those follow-up shots on big game much smoother and quicker than with iron sights.
Improved Accuracy: Especially at a distance – the crisp dot lets you really dial in your shot placement.
Durability: Gives you the confidence to use your 629 hard, whether hunting or competing.
Disadvantages
Cost: Trijicon's top-tier quality means a top-tier price tag.
Requires Gunsmithing: Often needs professional mounting on a revolver.
My Experience
The RMR Type 2 transformed target shooting with my 629 into a blast. It holds zero like a champ and makes me a more accurate shooter. The extra cost and hassle of gunsmithing are absolutely worth it in my book.
Online Comments and Discussions
Here's what others are saying about this combo:
"Best revolver red dot out there, period." - BigBoreFan (Revolver Forum)
"Pricey, but it's the real deal" – Maggie44 (Retailer Comment)
"If you're serious about revolver shooting, the RMR is a game-changer." - Wheelgun_Guru (Blog Post)
In short, if you want to unlock the full potential of your S&W 629, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is the ultimate red dot sight upgrade. Yes, it's an investment, but for the serious revolver enthusiast, it's an investment in precision and shooting confidence.
The S&W 629 is a magnificent revolver, but let's face it, mastering that .44 Magnum power takes some help. The stock iron sights are decent, but I wanted something to maximize its potential. That's where the Burris Fastfire 3 comes in.
Compact & Lightweight: Doesn't ruin the balance or classic look of the 629.
Rugged: Burris is known for durability. The Fastfire 3 can withstand the heavy recoil.
Intuitive Brightness: The automatic setting is awesome – one less thing to think about.
Easy Battery Swap: The top-loading battery compartment is super convenient.
Advantages
Fast & Accurate: Target acquisition is incredibly quick. Groups tightened up for me, especially at longer distances.
Versatile: Great for hunting, target shooting, even potentially home defense with the right practice.
Weatherproof: I've hunted in some nasty conditions, and the Fastfire 3 hasn't let me down.
Disadvantages
Pricey: Not a budget optic, but I believe in this case, you get what you pay for.
Dot Size: Some folks might prefer a smaller dot, especially for precision work.
Mount: You'll likely need a mount specific to the S&W 629 for proper placement.
My Experience
Putting the Fastfire 3 on my 629 was a revelation. I'm able to shoot more comfortably and with greater confidence. It helps me really feel the power of the .44 Magnum in a controlled way, which is what a revolver like this is all about.
Online Comments
Here's what others have to say:
"Makes shooting the big calibers way more fun."
"The auto-brightness is a must-have feature for me."
"Burris customer service is top-notch if you ever do have an issue."
Overall, if you're looking for a premium red dot to elevate your S&W 629 experience, the Burris Fastfire 3 is a fantastic option. It's built tough, easy to use, and significantly improves both speed and accuracy.
I've always admired the power and classic beauty of my S&W 629 revolver. But when it came to squeezing out its full accuracy potential, I knew those iron sights were holding me back a bit. Enter the Holosun 407C, a red dot that feels tailor-made for a big wheelgun like this.
Specifications
Magnification: 1x
Reticle: 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or a combination of the two.
Mount: Picatinny rail compatible (Note: You'll likely need a mount adapter for the 629)
Best Features
Reticle Choices: I love the flexibility. The 2 MOA dot is perfect for precision shots, while the circle-dot combo excels for fast target acquisition.
Solar Failsafe: The solar panel and automatic brightness are awesome. It gives me battery peace of mind.
Shake Awake Technology: The 407C is always ready – pick it up, and the dot instantly turns on.
Value: Provides amazing features and build quality for the price.
Advantages
Vastly improves accuracy potential, especially at longer distances.
Multiple reticle options let you tailor it to your shooting style.
Durable enough to handle the .44 Magnum's recoil without issue.
Features like Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake enhance usability.
Disadvantages
Requires a mount adapter for the S&W 629 (adds extra cost).
Can be slightly bulkier than some of the truly micro red dots.
My Experience
The Holosun 407C has made shooting my 629 even more enjoyable. I'm landing tighter groups, hitting targets way out there that I didn't think possible with iron sights, and just having a heck of a lot of fun. If you value versatility and high-tech features, this optic is worth serious consideration.
What Others Are Saying
Overall, feedback on the Holosun 407C is overwhelmingly positive, especially from revolver shooters:
Durability: Many users praise its ability to handle heavy recoil.
Features: Shake Awake and Solar Failsafe get frequent callouts as being great additions.
Value: Most consider it an excellent balance of features and cost.
Do you want some specific links to forums or reviews where S&W 629 owners share their experiences with this red dot?
The ultimate red dot for your S&W 629 depends on whether it's for hunting or target shooting. Hunters require an optic with optimal light transmission and potentially some magnification.
Target shooters can focus on a competition-ready red dot with a crisp, small dot and precise adjustments. Durability is key for this powerful revolver.