Smith & Wesson Model 59
| Smith & Wesson Model 59 | |
|---|---|
|
Smith & Wesson Model 59 Target pistol | |
| Type | Semi-automatic pistol |
| Place of origin |
 United States |
| Service history | |
| Used by | United States |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Produced | 1971[1][2]–1988 |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 30 oz / 1.84 lb (0.840 kg) |
| Length | 7.55 in (192 mm) |
| Barrel length | 4 in (102 mm) |
|
| |
| Cartridge | 9×19mm Parabellum |
| Action | DA/SA |
| Rate of fire | Semi-automatic |
| Feed system | 14-round double column, detachable box magazine |
| Sights | fixed Iron sights, optional adjustable |
The Smith & Wesson Model 59 was a modification of the S&W Model 39 pistol that had a double-column magazine. It was one of the first generation of Smith & Wesson semi-automatics.
History and users
It was designed for the U.S. Navy as a large-capacity version of the S&W Model 39, the basis of their Mark 22 "Hush Puppy" silenced pistol. In 1965, the U.S. Navy commissioned a version of the S&W Model 39 that could take the 13-round magazine of the FN Browning HP35. In early 1970, a dozen experimental all-stainless-steel prototypes were made and were issued to Navy SEAL commandos for evaluation in the field. The firearm was not adopted.
The Model 59 went on the market in 1971.[1][2] It went out of production a decade later in 1980 when the improved second generation series was introduced (the Model 459).
Design
The Model 59 was manufactured in 9mm Parabellum caliber with a wider anodized aluminum frame (to accommodate a double-stack magazine), a straight backstrap, a magazine disconnect (the pistol will not fire unless a magazine is in place), and a blued carbon steel slide that carries the manual safety. The grip is of three pieces made of two nylon plastic panels joined by a metal backstrap. It uses a magazine release located to the rear of the trigger guard, similar to the M1911A1.
Kel-Tec P11
The Magazine for the Model 59 is coincidentally a perfect fit for the Kel-Tec P11. This is significant because it allows for the P11 to have an extended magazine with a capacity of up to 30 rounds.
Model 459
The S&W Model 459 was an updated version of the Model 59 with adjustable sights and checkered nylon grips. This model was discontinued in 1988. Eight hundred three units were produced in a brush finish with special grips made to FBI specifications.
See also
Notes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Trzoniec, Stanley W. (1981). Modern American Centerfire Handguns. Tulsa, Okla.: Winchester Press. p. 49. ISBN 0876913419. OCLC 7572377.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Hartink, A. E. (2002). The Complete Encyclopedia of Pistols and Revolvers (first ed.). Edison, N.J.: Chartwell Books. p. 279. ISBN 9780785815198. OCLC 51024327.
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