Differences between S&W 439,539,639?

[pokerdaddy]

I've recently caught the bug for 2nd (and 3rd) generation S&W autos. I'm educating myself on the variables between models and was wondering what the differences are between the 439, 539, and 639. I've figured out alot of the 3rd generation (4 digit) numbers, but right now I'm stumped on the 2nd gen. 9mm's.

I get the 39, then 39-2, then 4/5/639...but some S&W fan please help me! I'm finding alot of very nice looking 439s for sale online but not alot of 639s.

Incidentally, I'm definitely planning of purchasing...4516 (or 457), 4566, 3913,AND THE ELUSIVE 3906 IS THE MOBY DICK I WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING AND CAN'T FIND!!!

 

[varoadking]

Contact this cat - he may still have his 3906...

http://www.gunsamerica.com/97693289...stols-Autos/Steel-Frame/Smith_Wesson_3906.htm

The gang at the S&W forum will get on your post over there and fill you in to your hearts content...

 

[lechiffre]

if you get the third generation numbering system the 2nd generation should be no problem at all. the first number is the metal type. same as the last letter on the third generation. 4=aluminum 5=steel 6=stainless. next two numbers are the models. 39=single stack 59=double stack 69=compact double stack.

 

[pokerdaddy]

Thanks guys. Speaking of the S&W forum, I tried registering there but was having difficulties...every time I hit "join" it took me to the login page. I'll try again soon.

And thanks for the link to the 3906, I'll get in touch with him asap.

 

[bannockburn]

pokerdaddy

I had several of the 469/669 9mm. compacts years ago; they were all well made pistols, with few if any problems to speak of. I should have held on to some of them, instead of dealing them away over the years.

 

[Rmart30]

I was looking at some of these also and was trying to remember what the single stack DAO model designation was on the 2nd or 3rd Gen??

 

[jsbethel]

I've got a thing for single stack S&W pistols. I have a 39-2, 639, 3904, 3906 and 3913NL. About three years ago, I got the 3904 and 3906 within a month of each other having not seen examples of either since the late '80s when they were new (of course I didn't want them back then because they weren't "wondernines"). The ergonomics of these pistols really are among the best you will ever find.