In 1955, @smithandwessoninc introduced the Model 39. It was a bold and audacious move jerked the basic design of the 1911 ahead almost 50 years.
There are some unmistakable similarities between the Model 39 and the 1911, including the upswept beavertail, the removable barrel bushing, the takedown pin, and the overall feel (right down to the grip angle). If you didn't focus on the Model 39's trigger or the slide-mounted safety/decock lever, you could easily be forgiven for thinking it was a Colt Commander (which had been introduced just a few short years prior).
But the Model 39 was a lot more than that. The single *and* double action trigger made it easier to fire from "hammer down. The combination safety and decocking lever assuaged concerns about carrying it "locked and cocked" (a topic that still garners heated discussion). And, of course, it was the first American-made pistol offered in the 9mm chambering.
This particular example dates to 1972. It remained remarkably true to the original 1955 design, with only some minor engineering changes. It remained in production until the early 1980s, and its derivates (the 439, 539, and 639) were produced into the late 1980s.
At about 29 ounces it wasn't a lightweight, but its alloy frame made it more svelte than a comparable Commander the weighed in at about 37 ounces.
#SmithWesson #smithandwesson #smithandwessonpartner #model39 #9mmluger #9mmparabellum #pewpew #rangeday #oldguns #semiautomatic #semiauto
ALT The port side of the Smith & Wesson Model 39.
ALT The Starboard side of the Smith & Wesson Model 39.