claim the QSPR may have been used by CIA assassins during the Cold War, and continues to be used by so-called "Black Book teams". A Russian handgun introduced in 2002, the OTs-38 Stechkin silent revolver, is described as using a system virtually identical to the QSPR. Mountain Gun Variation The Mountain Gun was introduced in 1989 as a lightweight version of the Model 29 designed to be "carried often and shot little". The barrel profile is a reprise of the original design. Early version 29-4 backpacker with 2.5" barrel (very rare). A Smith & Wesson Model 629 with a 3" barrel called the "Trail Boss" was produced for the distributor, RSR. Other variants On January 26, 2006, Smith & Wesson announced the 50th Anniversary Model 29. Identical to the previous models except for the gold inlaid trademark on the side cover, the new internal lock mechanism, and a non-fluted cylinder. On January 1, 2007, Smith & Wesson announced the reissue of the Model 29 as an engraved model in S&W's Classics line. The Smith & Wesson Model 629 Stealth Hunter has a ported barrel with a full-length under lug for increased stability and recoil reduction.The barrel-cylinder gap is , with a ball-detent lockup between the frame and cylinder crane that provides increased strength. The entire revolver is made of a stainless steel, with a glare-reducing matte black finish. It comes with slip-resistant synthetic grips. The 329NG is a scandium-framed revolver with PVD-coated cylinder and tritium sights. It is part of the NightGuard line. Gallery See also Astra Model 44 Llama Super Comanche Table of handgun and rifle cartridges References External links Smith & Wesson's .44 Magnum by John Taffin Manual .44 Magnum firearms Police weapons Smith & Wesson revolvers Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1955