But in 1983’s “Sudden Impact” a new character was introduced that instantly became the “it” gun that everyone had to have. In fact, that gun is quite possibly deserving of equal top-billing in the film credits. The title character, immortalized by Clint Eastwood is famous for the icon status of the S&W Model 29. The Dirty Harry movies from the 1970s and early 1980s are required annual viewing for anyone who calls himself a handgun enthusiast.