From the sublime, like Egghead and Wheeler’s posts, to possibly the ugliest revolver that S&W ever produced. Let’s face it; this is one ugly looking gun. The M49 original Bodyguard was apparently the shape that S&W wanted to achieve. Well, they achieved that shape, but the M296ti resembles a baby rhino (term taken from J Vaughn) and not a pretty baby rhino.
The M296ti is a .44special (limited to a 200 grain round), built on the round butt Centennial L frame, with a 5 shot titanium cylinder. It was introduced at the 1999 SHOT show and was produced from 1999 to 2001. It is said, that there were 5000 units produced. I do not have verification of that number. The M296ti came with a set of Mikes L frame boot grips which, in my opinion, did not provide the proper grip to handle a .44special round out of a lightweight 2 ½ inch barrel. I put a set of Ahrends grips on mine and sold the grips with the gun.
I will not say the M296ti was a total bust, but it was not popular. Now, because of the limited numbers of these, they have become collectible. I hate to say it, but this is a truly ugly Smith. But, if I had the chance, I would most likely buy one again! lol
M296ti
The M296ti is a .44special (limited to a 200 grain round), built on the round butt Centennial L frame, with a 5 shot titanium cylinder. It was introduced at the 1999 SHOT show and was produced from 1999 to 2001. It is said, that there were 5000 units produced. I do not have verification of that number. The M296ti came with a set of Mikes L frame boot grips which, in my opinion, did not provide the proper grip to handle a .44special round out of a lightweight 2 ½ inch barrel. I put a set of Ahrends grips on mine and sold the grips with the gun.
I will not say the M296ti was a total bust, but it was not popular. Now, because of the limited numbers of these, they have become collectible. I hate to say it, but this is a truly ugly Smith. But, if I had the chance, I would most likely buy one again! lol
M296ti