Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum .44 Mag
Model: 162069
Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum .44 Mag
Model: 162069
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum is a five-shot stainless double-action .44 Magnum on S&W's medium frame, built for trail and woods carry, and it has an MSRP of $1,039. S&W calls it the first L-frame in .44 Magnum, and getting the cartridge into that frame is why the cylinder holds five rounds and not six.
The barrel is a two-piece 4.25-inch assembly and the cylinder locks up on a ball detent at the crane. The sights are a red ramp front and an adjustable rear, the grips are synthetic and the finish is satin stainless. At 37.4 oz, 1.55 inches across the cylinder and 6.0 inches tall, this is the .44 Magnum that fits a normal belt holster instead of a chest rig. There is no optic cut and no scope base.
If you're cross-shopping, the Smith & Wesson Model 629 has an MSRP of $1,139, holds six rounds on the large frame and measures 1.7 inches across behind a 4.13-inch barrel. The Ruger Redhawk also holds six, weighs 47.0 oz and has an MSRP of $1,449. The 69 gives up a round to both of them because of the smaller frame.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- The top strap and barrel carry full-length serrations, which kill the glare stainless throws back in bright country.
- S&W lists the gun as medium frame, so L-frame holsters and grips fit it where the large-frame guns need their own.
- S&W lists the SKU as compliant for California, Massachusetts and most other restricted states.
- Five rounds is a consequence of the frame size, and the Ruger Redhawk holds six at 9.6 oz more weight.
- No optic cut and no base, so a dot means drilling a top strap that S&W has already serrated.
- A medium frame under full-power .44 Magnum recoils harder than a large frame does, so .44 Special is the practice round.
Compatible Ammunition
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.44 Magnum Ballistics →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rifling twist?
1 in 18.75, which it shares with S&W's large-frame .44 Magnums.
Does it have a manual safety?
No. There is no external lever, which is standard for a double-action revolver.
Can it shoot .44 Special?
Yes. S&W lists its .44 Magnum revolvers as taking .44 S&W Special as well, and the shorter case is the sensible way to put rounds through a gun this light.
