Which 3rd-Gen S&W 9mm for CCW?

[Kor]

Well, since my company-issued duty gun is a S&W 910, I'm going to get a LE-surplus 5906 for independent practice/training/IDPA. I'm also considering a compact version for CCW, so I'd like to hear the opinions of those of you who own or have owned one of the above guns.

I usually shoot high-90th-percentile scores on the POST qualification with my duty 910 every quarter, so I'm comfortable with the "traditional double-action/single-action" manual of arms - I'm just not sure if I want the added thickness and skin-gouging edges of the standard ambidexterous safety levers on the slide.

On the other hand, I regularly qualify with(also high-90th-percentile scores) and CCW a Kahr K40 and S&W Airweight Centennials, so I'm also comfortable with DAO.

FYI, I plan to carry IWB, so comfort will be a BIG consideration.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

 

[Devonai]

I'd get the 69 series just so that you can use one or two of the 910's magazines as backup. I never experienced any comfort problems with the ambi controls on my 5906, so for me the 6906 would be favored. I have tried the pull on a 6946 before and it was awfully heavy, but they may smooth out over time (or you can get it worked on).

 

[MD_Willington]

+1 for 69xx series... I'm keeping an eye out for one myself... until then, my 5906 is in my sachel

 

[mdao]

The 39xx is very flat and much easier to comfortably IWB carry than the 69xx. A tucked, IWB'ed 3914 is my go to rig when I need maximum concealability.

As for DA/SA or DAO, it's your preference. I've never had any discomfort from the standard ambi safeties on the 3914 as long as I've had an undershirt between the gun and my skin. The added thickness is unnoticable in real life usage.

 

[aaronrkelly]

6906......great gun.

Heres mine, picked it up recently for $290 FTF.

I got the box, manuals, 2 magazines and GALCO FED paddle (still in the wrapper).

Gun has night sights as well.

I had overlooked the 3rd gen Smiths until this came along, how could you not like these guns.....and the prices are great.

 

[SwampWolf]

If you don't find the grip to be too fat, I'd recommend the 6906. The extra bullets are nice to have!

 

[10-Ring]

I have always had an issue w/ S&W semi autos but the 6906 just fits me

 

[MICHAEL T]

3913 works for me I can carry in front pocket of my jeans . I have loaded with Corbon +P

 

[MillCreek]

As for me, I sometimes have trouble deciding which to carry: my 669 or 3913. Both are fine choices.

 

[Srigs]

Because you use a 910, I would choose the 69xx with double stack grip. I did choose this a 6946. A great gun that is 100% reliable.

 

[ShelbyV8]

I have both the 3913 and 6946. The 6946 feels better in my hand and I like the slide without the safety/decocker. My 6946 is slightly customized, the second picture is with the 15 round magazine. The DAO trigger is shorter and lighter than the DA on the TDA models.