Everything About “Dirty Harry” Callahan’s .44 Magnum Smith & Wesson

Amongst the coolest arms used in “Dirty Harry”—Walther P38, Winchester Model 70, Arisaka Type 2 Rifle, and the Colt Detective Special—there’s one that people never stopped talking about. The .44 Magnum Smith & Wesson Model 29, which was Inspector “Dirty Harry” Callahan’s top pick. Keep reading to know more about it.

It Wasn’t A Star Until “Dirty Harry” Made It Famous

The Smith & Wesson Model 29 struggled to gain attention when it launched in 1955. But when Clint Eastwood wielded it in “Dirty Harry,” surprisingly, its sales skyrocketed. The movie’s immense success made this revolver a must-have among enthusiasts.

The Barrel Length Fooled Audiences

Harry’s revolver appeared to have an 8 3/8-inch barrel, but it was actually a 6.5-inch version. Each time one saw it on the screen, clever camera angles exaggerated its size. This added to the weapon’s intimidating presence and its larger-than-life status.

Sales Of The Model 29 Outpaced Production After 1971

Following the release of “Dirty Harry,” demand for the Model 29 surged so rapidly that Smith & Wesson couldn’t keep up. The revolver became scarce and created a frenzy among collectors. Gun stores even reported waiting lists as hundreds clamored to own the “most powerful handgun.”

Was It The Most Powerful Handgun In The World?

The true answer is no. It was not the most powerful handgun of all. However, it was the most powerful factory-made double-action revolver, and the .44 Magnum cartridge had a great caliber for that time. Today, stronger rounds like the .500 S&W Magnum exist.

The Gun Was Mass-Produced, Not Custom-Made

Unlike many iconic Hollywood props, the Model 29 wasn’t custom-built for the film. It was an off-the-shelf revolver. Its unaltered design proved that a stock firearm could achieve legendary status on the big screen. Smith & Wesson’s craftsmanship was unmatched.

Clint Eastwood Chose The Model 29 Himself

Director Don Siegel initially wanted a smaller handgun for Dirty Harry, but Clint Eastwood insisted on the Smith & Wesson Model 29. Its imposing size and power perfectly matched Callahan’s no-nonsense persona, which became a defining element of the character.

The Gun’s Popularity Revived Magnum Shooting Sports

The Model 29’s newfound fame in the 1970s spurred renewed interest in magnum revolvers for both sport and hunting. Competitors began using the .44 Magnum in silhouette shooting matches, while hunters used it for its ability to take down large game like deer and bears.

The .44 Magnum Inspired The Modern Revolver Arms Race

The release of the .44 Magnum sparked a wave of innovation among firearm manufacturers. Competitors began developing even larger and more powerful revolvers, such as the Ruger Super Blackhawk and the .500 S&W Magnum, as they sought to outdo the Model 29’s legacy.

Smith & Wesson Still Produces The Model 29

That’s right, the Model 29 remains in production to date. Modern versions have improved durability, but they stay true to the original’s design. Be it for shooting or collecting, this model continues to attract fans of both classic revolvers and movie history.

Its Sleek Blued Finish Made It Instantly Recognizable

Dirty Harry’s Model 29 featured a high-polish blued finish, which gave it a menacing yet elegant appearance. While modern versions are available in stainless steel, collectors still prefer the classic blued look that made the revolver famous in the gritty streets of San Francisco.