Sigma or 659

[carbonyl]

I have a S&W 659 that I bought new sometime in the mid eighties. When I bought it I maybe put 30 rounds through and recently shot another 50 so it’s shot less than 100 rounds altogether. I recently obtained a CCW permit. I will never carry on a regular basis but I make frequent trips to the coast, mostly at night. The ability to legally carry when driving at night, stopping at rest areas for a break or nap has been much less nerve racking with my security blanket. I only need one pistol and have thought about getting a Sigma to replace the 659. I chose the Sigma because I don’t have the money for one of the more expensive autos and it’s a S&W. The weight of the 659 doesn’t bother me and it fits in an inside the pants waistband holster fine. My only worry is that it being a 2nd generation Smith will I be able to get parts or fixed if needed. After this long-winded explanation my question to those on this form with way more experience is, if weight and concealability aren’t a factor which of these two autos would you consider more durable and dependable.

 

[marine 97-03]

I think the new "ve" model sigmas are finei know a lot of people that carry them and they love them....heavy trigger but in a defense situation u wouldn't notice

 

[wnycollector]

I would keep your 659. It's a classic "wonder-nine"! Plus there are LOTS of parts for 1st, 2nd and 3rd gen S&W pistols out there. I cant imagine how many rounds one would have to put down range before you wore out a 659. If I were to ballpark that number I would guess 50-100K maybe???

 

[smalls]

The 2nd Gen S&W is a fine gun, and if you can carry it, and feel comfortable with it, I say keep it.
with that said, I carry a sigma everyday. The trigger is heavy, but definitely manageable. It has a natural point and shoot to it.
No matter what you decide, get some trigger time with it, practice, and become proficient with it.
And I really hope you change your mind, and decide to carry all the time, because crime does not have a "schedule". Bad things happen 24/7, and not just in dark alleys.

 

[USAF_Vet]

I've got the S&W 469, similar 2nd gen wondernine. I tried the Sigma a couple years ago, walked away and never looked back. I'm so much happier with my 469. Smoother trigger, decocker, external hammer, just a few things I like about the 469 versus the Sigma.

 

[GBExpat]

... if weight and concealability aren’t a factor which of these two autos would you consider more durable and dependable.

I have no experience with the Sigma, but ...

... after reading this thread I retrieved my 659 from the gunsafe and pondered your question.

I, too, purchased mine in the mid-80s but I have put many more than 100 rounds thru it. It is heavy and bulky but I have found it to be an extremely well-made, stable & accurate 9x19 platform.

So, if it were my choice to make between this 659 and swapping it for a Sigma, I would simply stick with the 659.

FWIW ...

 

[mgmorden]

My only worry is that it being a 2nd generation Smith will I be able to get parts or fixed if needed.

I've never really understood this concern. You're going to replace a gun to make sure that down the road you don't have to . . . replace a gun. Until something DOES break its not an issue - and realistically its not likely that it'll ever break in your lifetime. Carry and shoot your 629 and enjoy it. On the very rare chance that it breaks, THEN look at buying a replacement gun.

 

[Storm]

Stick with the 659. No question about it.

 

[snooperman]

I have a Sigma and like it, but if I had the 659..

I would keep it. It is a fine gun.

 

[carbonyl]

I've never really understood this concern. You're going to replace a gun to make sure that down the road you don't have to . . . replace a gun.

Yeah, put that way it does sound pretty stupid, but my concern was that down the road I may not have the money to fix or replace a gun. Anyway based on these responses I'm keeping the 659. Maybe sometime down the road I'll add the Sigma. Thanks for the advice.

 

[David E]

One handgun is never enough.