Smith & Wesson Model 59

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Smith & Wesson Model 59
TypeSemi-automatic pistol
Place of originUnited States
Service history
Used byUnited States
Production history
ManufacturerSmith & Wesson
Produced1971[1][2]–1982
Specifications
Mass30 oz / 1.84 lb (0.840 kg)
Length7.55 in (192 mm)
Barrel length4 in (102 mm)
Cartridge9×19mm Parabellum, 7.65×21mm Parabellum
ActionDA/SA
Rate of fireSemi-automatic
Feed system14-round double column, detachable box magazine (20-round factory magazines were available)
Sightsfixed iron sights, optional adjustable

The Smith & Wesson Model 59 is a double-action pistol produced from 1971 to 1981. It was developed by Smith & Wesson from the earlier Smith & Wesson Model 39 by adapting a 14-round capacity stagger-stack magazine.

History and users[]

The Model 59 was designed for the U.S. Navy as a large-capacity version of the S&W Model 39, the basis of their Mark 22 "Mark 22 Hush Puppy" suppressed 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 Browning Hi-Power. In early 1970, a dozen experimental all-stainless-steel prototypes were made and were issued to Navy SEAL commandos for evaluation in the field, but it was not adopted.

The Model 59 went on the market in 1971.[1][2] It went out of production a decade later in 1982 when the improved second generation series was introduced (the Model 459).

Design[]

The Model 59 was manufactured in 9×19mm Parabellum caliber with a wider anodized aluminum frame, 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 consists 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.

Magazine[]

The magazine for the Model 59 is similar to that of the Browning Hi-Power. Initially introduced with a capacity of 14 rounds, this was later increased to 15 rounds for future variants. Smith & Wesson also made an extended 20-round version. Many firearms have been introduced to use this pattern of magazine including the Marlin Camp Carbine as well as the Kel-Tec P11, , and Sub2000.

Model 459[]

The Smith & Wesson Model 459 was an updated version of the Model 59 with adjustable sights and checkered nylon grips. This model was discontinued in 1988. 803 units were produced in a brush finish with special grips made to FBI specifications.

See also[]

This was a second generation double-stack semiautomatic pistol based on the first generation Model 59. It had a stainless steel construction. Early variants had a rounded trigger guard and safety lever on the left side only. The later variant had a squared trigger guard and ambidextrous safety levers. There were fixed and adjustable sight variants.

Notes[]

  1. ^ a b Trzoniec, Stanley W. (1981). Modern American Centerfire Handguns. Tulsa, Okla.: Winchester Press. p. 49. ISBN 0876913419. OCLC 7572377.
  2. ^ a b Hartink, A. E. (2002). The Complete Encyclopedia of Pistols and Revolvers (first ed.). Edison, N.J.: Chartwell Books. p. 279. ISBN 9780785815198. OCLC 51024327.

External links[]

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