Smith & Weson 2nd Generation

[whatnickname]

You see quite a bit here regarding the thrid generation S&W pistols but relatively little about the second generation pisols. I would be interested in hearing the pros and cons surrounding these models. I have three of them, two 659s and a 639. The 639 fits my hand better than just about anything around. My pistols are highly reliable with a wide range of ammunition. Accuracy is in the 3" to 4" range at 25 yards. As I recall, Smith went to the third generation to achieve a more ergonomic (read that smaller girth) grip and to reduce the overall weight. There may have also been some improved manufacturing efficiencies with the third generation pistols too. Back in the day they were competing with the increasing popularity of the Glock which was becoming firmly entrinched in the police market. I suppose this accounts for all of the 3rd generation pistols that were produced in DAO format. Anyway, I would welcome the opinions of others on these pistols.

 

[W.E.G.]

I carry a Glock for all the usual reasons.

Still like my 659.

 

[Holland&Holland]

Way back about 1986, I bought a 469 "minigun." 12+1 9x19. Fixed barrel bushing, separate plastic grips and backstrap, no high hand hold frame cut at base of trigger guard, smallish fixed sights, straight feed ramp.

Pistol shot fine, never had one malfunction. Back then there was NO MIM parts. Once I loaded five different types of ammo in a magazine or two, fired rapidly as could be, also no malfunctions...included were Geco "BAT," Winchester Silvertip and ball, Speer 124JSP...worked like a champ.

Soft anodizing on the frame didn't wear well, but better than Gen 1 pistols. Ergos on the later 3rd gen were better, and certainly first DA pulls were as well. Not a 1911, not a G17, not a P99 but pretty underrated and undervalued; lots of good deals on these out there.

 

[Steve CT]

First Gen still works for me. Added the fully adjustable rear sight and nice wood grips. 4" at 25 yards is no problem for this gun

 

[Plan2Live]

A 459 purchased in 1986 was my entry into the pistol world. It still serves duty as the closest handgun when I sleep. I used it to qualify for my conceal carry permit last year. I like the platform a lot and almost bought a CS9 recently but decided not to due to concern over possible lack of holster options. Accurate, reliable, old school looks and feel. What more could you ask for? It's a shame they stopped making them and/or the 3rd Gens.

 

[USAF_Vet]

My only hand gun at the moment is my 469. It has been flawless for me. I've run good ammo, steel cases ammo and run of the mill ammo. I have the standard 12 round S&W mag, a 15 round and a 20 round Promag, all have functioned without a hitch.

I love it, and got it at a pretty decent price. I firmly believe the S&W auto loaders from the 80's are under rated diamonds. I'm always on the look out for more.