How I learned to Stop Worrying and Love the 3rd Gen S&W

[Lyonsgrid]

I’ve been down this road a few times before. I’ve always had an irrational liking for 3rd Gen S&W semi-autos. They just never seem to like me back. I’ve sold off and traded several models over the years. This time is different, it has to be damn it. I’ve finally found a model that works and makes sense to me.

The 5903 SSV (Short Slide Variant)

4498

Only 1500 produced in 1990.
Basically a full frame (alloy) 5903 mated to a shorty 6904 top end. Similar to the Beretta 92/96 Centurion or Colt Commander in concept, full frame short slide. Nothing really special since you can swap frames and top-ends and build your own. Still, I love the more obscure models and S&W made a ton of variants over the years.

Good:
1- I like DA/SA pistols. My go to have been Beretta 92’s and this has the same manual of arms.
2- Frame is alloy like the 92. The 5906’s (steel) frame guns just never worked and were too heavy.
3- Full length frame avoids the dreaded pinky pinch reload and has a nice no snag bevel.
4- 17 round Mec-Gar mags offer good capacity, reliability and only cost around $20 dollars.
5- Support hand fits frame without interference with controls.
6- Trigger is great, both single and double action.
7- Straight style grip mimics the 1911 or Beretta 92 Vertec. Curved backstrap grips also available.
8- Square trigger guard fits my support hand index finger grip. I cheat it forward and it fits the slight curve just right. I actually like the square guards.
9- High grip is easy with the right sized beaver tail and total design.
10- Solid reputation for reliability.

4499

4500

4501

4502

Bad:
1- Part support is terrible.
2- Aftermarket sights are few and nobody knows what fits what.
3- Holsters are hard to source.
4- Not crazy about two-tone.
5- Reputation for just “ok” accuracy.
6- Only hipsters and derps shoot 3rd Gens.
7- No rail.
8- It’s not a TSW or PC 3rd Gen.
9- Miami Vice ended in 1989.
10- I’m the only one who cares?

4503

Mod 1:
I hate ambi-controls. Thankfully, they made single sided safety assemblies. There are several versions out there spanning the Gen 1 – Gen 3 S&W’s. Some have thinner levers. The silver two-tone look had to go. I found a black single sided lever and installed it. Much improved mod for both carry and function.

4505

4507

4508

4509

This is a work in progress and I’ll update as I go along. I welcome any ideas, suggestions or insults.

[breakingtime91]

can JM hook you up with holsters?

[Lon]

That's actually a damn good looking 3rd Gen. I love the looks of the 3rd gen guns, unfortunately I have trust issues with 3rd Gen guns. I had a 4044 as my first issued duty weapon. Was not a fan. I always thought the ASP conversions were cool.

[Chuck Haggard]

I had one of those for several years, it served mostly as a fanny pack gun. I like the size of it, but mine was marginal as far as accuracy.

The same sights that fit the 5906 fit the 6906, and the 4006, etc., and that gun was well.

The flush fit MecGar 17 round mags work really well in those guns.

[rathos]

Novak still makes 3rd gen sights.

[314159]

I'm too old to be a hipster. I've recently rediscovered these guns of the '80s and '90s. The design elements really are amazingly well thought out. I'm looking at 3 different models right now, two calibers, three levels of capacity and almost all the internal parts interchange. They point well and none of the controls get accidentally actuated or are hard to use. I could go on and on... but I will add that XS Big Dots are also available.

[Beat Trash]

Interesting combination of frame to slide.

I'm not sure that I'd run a large amount of rounds through the gun though. Parts are harder and harder to come by. We would buy 9m extractors by the gross, as it was a slim part and prone to chipping and breaking. (I had one break in the field as I was shooting a dog that was chewing on me in a back yard once.) The alloy frames in the 6906's and later 6946's would start to crack just north of the 30k mark.

I have to admit, back when we issued 5906's, had I came across one of these 5903SSV's, I'd have snagged one up for off duty carry.

[Lyonsgrid]

can JM hook you up with holsters?

I've contacted him about one. Trying to figure out which mold to send him. 6906 or 5906? Can someone confirm the square frame 5906 and 6906 have the same length dust cover? If so, I'll source a 6906 blue gun mold since it has the short slide/barrel.

[Lyonsgrid]

Novak still makes 3rd gen sights.


Sights are a nightmare on these guns. They made several front and rear variations over the years. This one has the later Novak rear style which is the best IMO. The dovetails are not the same and it's hard to find info on the specs.

I have a 10-8 performance rear on the way (.140 black U notch) that is said to fit. I plan on pairing it with a high vis front Trijicon HD or Ameriglo. I'm prepared to do some fitting.

[camsdaddy]

Today is the first day this week I have carried my 3913TSW rather than my Glock 19. I took it to the range Monday and it was like rekindling an old flame. Comfort, accuracy, trigger DA & SA, first shot on target it was magic. I only have one spare 7 rd mag. I need 15 rounds and 15 in a spare mag. I know I do the internet tells me so. Today I am carrying my 19. Then I read this ARGH!

[Clobbersaurus]

TDA pimp guns for the win!

The thing I like about the Gen 3's is the attention to detail. Serrations are where they should be, magazine wells are bevelled, sights were decent, triggers were generally good. Thanks for posting Lyonsgrid.

[Sean O]

I've contacted him about one. Trying to figure out which mold to send him. 6906 or 5906? Can someone confirm the square frame 5906 and 6906 have the same length dust cover? If so, I'll source a 6906 blue gun mold since it has the short slide/barrel.

If the 6906 is what will work, I can tell you Tony already has a mold for that.:cool:

[psalms144.1]

I've owned and shot a whole HERD of 3rd Gen S&Ws in 9mm, 40, 45 and 10mm (only one of those). They were all pretty, and felt good in the hand, with good-to-great triggers, an boring reliability. Unfortunately, very few of them show worth a poop, from an accuracy perspective, and I ABHOR slide-mounted controls of any kind. Hopefully yours will shoot as good as it looks - keep us posted!

[GardoneVT]

Re: accuracy.

These guns are a mixed bag ergonomically. Some folks can run them well. Some can't hit a patch of county dirt from inside the borders with one.

Case in point; I can run a double stack S&W auto well. Hand me a 1006/4506/4566 and I'll be using it as a bludgeon, cause then I'd actually hit something .

Next, the parts situation isn't something to be ignored. Seems the S&W mothership's response to a broken Third Gen is a voucher towards an M&P of the users choice.

Further, otherwise minor parts are getting VERY tough to find. 4506/645 guiderods are starting to become unobtanium, to say nothing about side plates and other proprietary components.

Which is why my beautiful, police rollmarked 4006 is a frequent resident of my safe instead of my holster.

[Yuns]

I am a huge fan of the 3rd Gen Smith Performance Center pistols. They are built and fitted like semi-custom 1911s. The triggers are excellent and the accuracy is amazing. While many are competition oriented, some are very service focused such as the "Shorty" series. I have a PC 5906 meant for IDPA and service use, the PC 5906 IDPA. Here it is pictured alongside my S&W PC 3566 Limited and an Ed Brown.

http://i.imgur.com/pqrk7je.jpg

[Yuns]

Some pictures taken by the original owner of my 5906

Titanium coated and hand fitted Briley bushing for barrel to slide fit
http://i.imgur.com/NIpB9EP.jpg

Here is the slide to frame fit as well as the seller's toes.
http://i.imgur.com/H4yNqwR.jpg

[medic15al]

I have always lusted after a 5904. I like the lightweight frame and any self respecting handgun needs to be blued or black. :)

I wanted one when I started working PT in security in 1992, but as a newlywed and a FT rookie paramedic, price was unobtanium to me then.

[ReverendMeat]

I've always kind of preferred TDA pistols but I have next to zero experience with the Smiths. I recently passed up a 5906 in favor of a HK USP for about 70 bucks more. Kind of regretting that. Don't know how well the Smith would perform but the HK is disagreeing with me a bit.

[Lyonsgrid]

Update on sights…

Contacted Trijicon direct and they agreed to tool up and make me a front night sight to fit this model. Appears they haven’t had a request for this specific model number sight in years, but they made it anyway. It took about 2 months to show up and fit was spot on.

10-8 performance has a U-notch rear for Novak style 1911’s that also fits some 3rd Gens. Fitting required is the key phrase here…it took a ton of filing but I’m happy with it now.

Overall, I like the new sights and wanted to show a couple more options out there for these pistols.

6785

6786

6787

[Duelist]

Love that gun. I have a pair of 3913s that I use for my primary and spare carry guns. Had Trijicon night sights put on the first, and the smith said he hopes I'm happy with the rear, because he doesn't want to ever try to change it. Took a lot of fitting. Gonna get a matching set installed in the other later this year.

If I'd run across that 5903, I probably wouldn't be running a SIG as my bigger gun.

[farscott]

I really like the 3rd Generation 9x19 S&W guns, but logistics make it a struggle to use them seriously. My daughter is a huge fan, carrying a 3913 and using a 3906 as a HD pistol. My wife has a 3914 she likes. But logistics continue to get harder. Even the Xenoy grips and magazines have become hard to find. Many of the parts are no longer available, and S&W has all but dropped factory servicing of the guns. I have learned that the best and least expensive way to get spare parts is to buy spare guns as the various firing control parts are really sets (example: do not use MIM sear with forged hammer as the sear nose geometry is not identical). Used samples can still be found for about $300-$400, which is much less expensive than buying just a slide and a barrel.

[LSP972]

But logistics continue to get harder.

Yup. That's why my 3953 is stashed away for hard times.

.

[45dotACP]

I never really cared for the 3rd gen smiths but that 10-8 setup is pretty damn cool

Sent from my VS876 using Tapatalk

[Gary1911A1]

That's a nice pistol the OP has. I'm on the lookout for a nice 6906 myself and hope to find one soon before the prices go up even more. Rather have a 3rd Gen S&W than any M&P plastic, mushy trigger excuse for a Glock.

[Chuck Haggard]

If anyone gets into a real bind I still have a few 9mm extractors, and the gauge, stashed away.

[LSP972]

For a while there, WV State Police, Kalifornia Highway Patrol, and perhaps a few other agencies, were holding S&W's feet to the fire, saying they didn't want no steenkin' M&P and if the firm could not supply them with 3rd Gen pistols, they would go elsewhere. I was told S&W grudgingly agreed, but moved all the tooling to the Houlton, ME facility.

Wonder if that is still the case?

.

[Chuck Haggard]

For a while there, WV State Police, Kalifornia Highway Patrol, and perhaps a few other agencies, were holding S&W's feet to the fire, saying they didn't want no steenkin' M&P and if the firm could not supply them with 3rd Gen pistols, they would go elsewhere. I was told S&W grudgingly agreed, but moved all the tooling to the Houlton, ME facility.

Wonder if that is still the case?

.

I know that CHP just bought new 4006s awhile back.

[HCM]

For a while there, WV State Police, Kalifornia Highway Patrol, and perhaps a few other agencies, were holding S&W's feet to the fire, saying they didn't want no steenkin' M&P and if the firm could not supply them with 3rd Gen pistols, they would go elsewhere. I was told S&W grudgingly agreed, but moved all the tooling to the Houlton, ME facility.

Wonder if that is still the case?

.

NYPD was one of the holdouts with the 5946 as one of three authorized duty guns but last year they replaced it with the. G17 Gen4.

CHP has recently acquired M&P Compacts in 40 for their Plainclothes personnel to replace their issued 4013's. They are looking pretty hard at the M&P 40 FS as well.

[LSP972]

CHP has recently acquired M&P Compacts in 40 for their Plainclothes personnel to replace their issued 4013's. They are looking pretty hard at the M&P 40 FS as well.

Guess they finally caved… or S&W said "we ain't doing it no more".

I seem to recall reading where WVSP went with another brand recently; but cannot remember where I read that.

.

[Duelist]

Came across a beautiful 5906 today. No holster wear, but the barrel wear suggests it's been shot a bit. I swear I don't need it, but there's a part of me that wants it anyway. A lot.

[entropy]

S&W autos just get me drooling for some reason. Not quite sure why. Never owned one but have come close numerous times. One of these days...probably after I master calculus at age 53...I will also master their numbering system.

[serialsolver]

Came across a beautiful 5906 today. No holster wear, but the barrel wear suggests it's been shot a bit. I swear I don't need it, but there's a part of me that wants it anyway. A lot.

I feel the same way about a m59 and one of those chopped down 59's. It is illogical but I still want one.

[Greg]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sURQLKgSRMo/VqUf2C-oc5I/AAAAAAAAC9k/5qDxPf-1m7II242wH9MmvJAWNCmv3aEAwCCo/s720-Ic42/DSC_0196%2B2.JPG

My 3913 is the only 3rd Gen S&W I've kept. Bought this one new in 1993. It is a little laser and is the only 2nd or 3rd Gen S&W I've owned that I could consider reliable.

It has the best DA pull of all my DA/SA pistols. Better than German Sigs and well shot CZs.

[Stephanie B]

I have a 6946 that is my preferred carry gun when my clothing is compatible with a double-stack gun.


6820

For me, it's like having a 13-shot DAO revolver, and what's not to like about that?

:D

[Duelist]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sURQLKgSRMo/VqUf2C-oc5I/AAAAAAAAC9k/5qDxPf-1m7II242wH9MmvJAWNCmv3aEAwCCo/s720-Ic42/DSC_0196%2B2.JPG

My 3913 is the only 3rd Gen S&W I've kept. Bought this one new in 1993. It is a little laser and is the only 2nd or 3rd Gen S&W I've owned that I could consider reliable.

It has the best DA pull of all my DA/SA pistols. Better than German Sigs and well shot CZs.

My older 3913 looks just like that, except for the grip tape on the front strap. I have a late LS as well that I put Trijicons on.

[farscott]

A couple of unusual S&W 3rd Generation guns.

1) Novak full-house on S&W 915 with Bar-Sto barrel. The luxury 5903.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/farscott/Novak_SampW_915_1_zps6554e9ac.jpg (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/farscott/media/Novak_SampW_915_1_zps6554e9ac.jpg.html)

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/farscott/Novak_SampW_915_3_zpsba95a90c.jpg (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/farscott/media/Novak_SampW_915_3_zpsba95a90c.jpg.html)

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/farscott/Novak_SampW_915_2_zpsf57c6bc5.jpg (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/farscott/media/Novak_SampW_915_2_zpsf57c6bc5.jpg.html)

Novak 3906. A relatively rare gun with a few minor tweaks to the trigger guard, a strong-side safety replacing the factory ambi, and the addition of Novak sights. This is my daughter's favorite gun as it is as flat as a 1911 and very easy to shoot well. There is also a spare upper with adjustable sights as well.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/farscott/SampW_M3906_2_zpsb1361b75.jpg (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/farscott/media/SampW_M3906_2_zpsb1361b75.jpg.html)

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/farscott/SampW_M3906_1_zpsb8414882.jpg (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/farscott/media/SampW_M3906_1_zpsb8414882.jpg.html)

[Duelist]

My 3913LS that I will carry today (whenever not in an NPE).
6852

[JonInWA]

That 3913LS always reminds me as a sort of a beefed-up and updated Mauser HSC...I never quite got around to getting one, thought. The 3913/3923 LS guns have consistently garnered excellent reviews over the years.

Best, Jon

[Whirlwind06]

This is my one and only 3rd gen a 4553, it was in the used case for too long and I couldn't pass up the temptation.
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b313/NE_Ohio_shooter/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160330_170652_zps2qmolchw.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.coyt?m/user/NE_Ohio_shooter/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160330_170652_zps2qmolchw.jpg.html)

I put a box of ammo though it, it's a nice shooter. I don't know if I'll carry it though it's like almost new in box with the case cleaning brushes the whole bit. The only downside is that it had XS sights on it. I'm not much into safe queens, but this one might be the exception.

[WoodLark]

I've contacted him about one. Trying to figure out which mold to send him. 6906 or 5906? Can someone confirm the square frame 5906 and 6906 have the same length dust cover? If so, I'll source a 6906 blue gun mold since it has the short slide/barrel.

Dust covers are the same length, I have 5903, 6906, 6946, and 3953. Except for barrel length (closed bottom holsters) they all fit the same holsters. I've tried other pistols, but nothing works for me like a 3rd gen S&W!

[Peally]

I've shot both the 6906 and 4506-1, and while I love how they're built I shoot them like ass.

[crossrifles]

6903

4006 decock only model in my least favorite caliber.........

[GardoneVT]

6903

4006 decock only model in my least favorite caliber.........
If I woke up tomorrow in a Stephen King horror movie where .40 was the only caliber in existence, I'd gladly walk the earth with a 4006.

[LSP972]

If I woke up tomorrow in a Stephen King horror movie where .40 was the only caliber in existence, I'd gladly walk the earth with a 4006.

And you'd be fine… until the little leaf spring on the trigger bar, or the trigger bar itself, broke…;)

.

[Digiroc]

I have a 5906 and have always lusted after a 1006 to be it's big brother. Yesterday I was at a gun show and found this:

7134

It came with a parts kit that includes a new factory barrel, recoil spring, and firing pin. A bit pricy for a used gun, but appears to be in great condition, cosmetically unblemished and the barrel in it looks clean and new.

I haven't fired it yet but expect it will do well as it looks so clean. It came with Hogue grips perfectly fitted and feels quite nice in hand, if a bit bulky and heavy. The trigger is very smooth and pull, while not measured, seems light for a DA auto.

Digiroc

[Duelist]

Nice 1006, Digiroc. Color me a little jealous.

[Gary1911A1]

Yes, nice looking 1006. Doesn't matter that much ho much you paid as the price will just keep going up.

[arcticlightfighter]

When I went through the MN equivalent of a police academy (Skills) we were using SW 5906 3rd Gen. They had 10's of thousands of rounds through them and maintained by the armorer instructors.

The DA was butter smooth and had exceptional SA. They were also extremly accurate. They have since gone to the G17 but the 3rd Gen series were the gold standard of LE for the longest time. Their TSW line was exceptional.

[Digiroc]

I just shot the 1006 for the first time. I cleaned and oiled it thoroughly first the when out and fired a clip of FMJ the guy gave me with it:

7235

Not the tightest group from 7 yards, but I'm pleased with a first firing with unknown ammo. I've got some cheap (relatively) Armscor 180 GR FMJ to try next, then finally some Hornady 180 gr XTP that I intend to carry in the weapon, after running the 50 rounds of FMJ through it to get used to it and develop some trust in the weapon.

Digiroc

[breakingtime91]

I just shot the 1006 for the first time. I cleaned and oiled it thoroughly first the when out and fired a clip of FMJ the guy gave me with it:

7235

Not the tightest group from 7 yards, but I'm pleased with a first firing with unknown ammo. I've got some cheap (relatively) Armscor 180 GR FMJ to try next, then finally some Hornady 180 gr XTP that I intend to carry in the weapon, after running the 50 rounds of FMJ through it to get used to it and develop some trust in the weapon.

Digiroc

500 round minimum before running 100 rounds of Jhp seems to be the standard here

[Lon]

And you'd be fine… until the little leaf spring on the trigger bar, or the trigger bar itself, broke…;)

.

It was the trigger bar on my 4044 duty gun that broke. Fortunately I dry fire a lot, so I was only carrying a non working pistol for one 8 hour shift. :mad:

[Digiroc]

500 round minimum before running 100 rounds of Jhp seems to be the standard here

My standards aren't quite that high, especially with a weapon that will be carried out my back door to the range in my backyard. At nearly a buck a pop firing 600 10mm rounds will take me some time and money. This gun is a long term investment, and a fun thing to shoot. My 5906 will be the practice gun as ergonomically they are about the same, and the ammo costs are much less.

I'm not an operator or LE professional where such high standards make perfect sense for a weapon that my life may depend on in daily carry.

Maybe I should start a U-Tube channel, maybe "Hiccup10" and get an ammo sponsorship, I'm sure my neighbors would love 100's of rounds a day being fired in my backyard.

Digiroc

[breakingtime91]

My standards aren't quite that high, especially with a weapon that will be carried out my back door to the range in my backyard. At nearly a buck a pop firing 600 10mm rounds will take me some time and money. This gun is a long term investment, and a fun thing to shoot. My 5906 will be the practice gun as ergonomically they are about the same, and the ammo costs are much less.

I'm not an operator or LE professional where such high standards make perfect sense for a weapon that my life may depend on in daily carry.

Maybe I should start a U-Tube channel, maybe "Hiccup10" and get an ammo sponsorship, I'm sure my neighbors would love 100's of rounds a day being fired in my backyard.

Digiroc

Didn't mean to offend but you made it seem like 50 rounds of fmj made s gun trustworthy. Never claimed u would gain operator status.

[Digiroc]

Here is a link to the first of four videos that go into the finer points of tuning and smoothing the Gen 3 Smith & Wesson pistols:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6qUBHIdWX4

Perhaps doing all of the above would make this series of automatics run well without putting 1000 rounds through the weapon.

Digiroc

[breakingtime91]

Here is a link to the first of four videos that go into the finer points of tuning and smoothing the Gen 3 Smith & Wesson pistols:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6qUBHIdWX4

Perhaps doing all of the above would make this series of automatics run well without putting 1000 rounds through the weapon.

Digiroc

its still not a test of the pistol.. especially something I would test.

[Digiroc]

Didn't mean to offend but you made it seem like 50 rounds of fmj made s gun trustworthy. Never claimed u would gain operator status.

None taken, my 5906 & 1006 are target and practice guns and as such I am less demanding than if used for daily carry and personal protection. My "trusting" it means that it won't blow up in my hand.

Digiroc

[breakingtime91]

None taken, my 5906 & 1006 are target and practice guns and as such I am less demanding than if used for daily carry and personal protection. My "trusting" it means that it won't blow up in my hand.

Digiroc

trackin

[Hi-Point Aficionado]

I've got a mainspring pack on order with Wolff to lighten up my 6904's DA. Would it be advisable to also install a slightly heavier recoil spring to keep the gun from beating itself up or will it be fine with the stock recoil spring?

It's way down the list of potential carry guns that I'm only going to care if it lights the primers in my mousefart 124 grain handloads and to a lesser extent factory ball from people who want to try it out. Thinking of starting with the 17 pound mainspring (lightest in the pack) for that reason.

[MistWolf]

I had a pair of 4006s I bought when they first came out. Had bobbed hammers installed and the triggers slicked up by an S&W armorer. I loved those pistols. I loved the DA pull. I loved the SA pull. I just don't like DA/SA. If I had converted them to DAO, I probably would have kept them. They were accurate and I liked the recoil of the 40 S&W.

Still and all, I have PPQ now and won't be going back. Except for the sake of nostalgia

[JSGlock34]

I spotted a 1076 with five magazines on consignment for $1100 at my LGS today. Looked in pretty good shape and was compelled to pull it out of the case and dry fire it. Neat piece of history. Though not a 4506, listened to Jan Hammer on the way home.

[SmokeJumper]

It was the trigger bar on my 4044 duty gun that broke. Fortunately I dry fire a lot, so I was only carrying a non working pistol for one 8 hour shift. :mad:

I've broken this leaf spring once too, fortunately I caught it at the range while cleaning after a qualification, I do not miss the 3rd gen S&W duty pistols at all.....just my opinion of course, they were heavy, especially the .45's we carried.

[Lost River]

I've broken this leaf spring once too, fortunately I caught it at the range while cleaning after a qualification, I do not miss the 3rd gen S&W duty pistols at all.....just my opinion of course, they were heavy, especially the .45's we carried.

I carried a 4586 DAO as an issued duty gun for a while. The single worst duty handgun ever issued. Being an FI, I watched as our bottom 1/3 of troops struggled and struggled with the guns to even qualify. The switch to Glock .45s brought scores up in such a substantial manner, that it should have been used as a Glock commercial.

On a personal note, I really enjoy an older Gen 2 S&W 645. Accurate, with an easy to shoot well SA.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b109/IV_Troop/Handguns/photo%2016_zpscwiouaj1.jpg (http://s18.photobucket.com/user/IV_Troop/media/Handguns/photo%2016_zpscwiouaj1.jpg.html)

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b109/IV_Troop/Handguns/P1010398_zpsxp462f41.jpg (http://s18.photobucket.com/user/IV_Troop/media/Handguns/P1010398_zpsxp462f41.jpg.html)

[Hambo]

I carried a 4586 DAO as an issued duty gun for a while. The single worst duty handgun ever issued. Being an FI, I watched as our bottom 1/3 of troops struggled and struggled with the guns to even qualify. The switch to Glock .45s brought scores up in such a substantial manner, that it should have been used as a Glock commercial.


Did you switch from revolvers to the 4586s?

[Wondering Beard]

Goes to show how individual an experience can be.

I loved the 4506 and was quite fine with the DAO version; both guns were, in my hands nearly as soft shooting as my gen2 G21. On the other hand, the 645 felt like a 2x4 in my hands and shooting it was like using a heavy recoiling 2x4, it wasn't pleasant at all.

[DpdG]

Furthering the trend of individual experiences vary- my first issued duty weapons was a 4566 in de-cock only, with the flat mainspring style grips. Although reliable and mechanically accurate, I could not shoot it well to save my life. The long (front strap to blackstrap) but narrow grip was extremely incompatible with my hand shape/size.

When the agency went to M&P45, I went from a bottom 1/3 shooter who could qualify, but just, to a top 1/3 and never worried about passing the qual. I'm not saying I was a good shot, as the qual course wasn't particularly strenuous.

I later put 1076 grips, with the arched blackstrap and palm swell, on the 4566 after I bought it from the agency. Made a significant difference in my hands.

[GardoneVT]

Story time.

My first regular carry pistol was a 4506 police trade in. Spent 400 on it at the Black Hills Cabelas store, stuck it in a Sig P226 suede holster, and figured I was ready to take on the ninjas.

Months later I shot it in DA for the first time. Didn't hit squat at 7 yards. After a box of ammo, my target looked like an imaginary .45 full auto buckshot blunderbuss went cyclic -so I sold it for an SR9. Which isn't as dumb as it seems, as I could actually hit the target consistently with the Ruger.

Fast forward three years. Learned a few things since those days of total ignorance. I order a 4566 decocker only police trade in,which I bring to the range with two spare mags and a heaping measure of optimism.

I'll never forget pressing out in DA , hearing the BANG....and seeing a perfectly undamaged target afterwards.
Second try.

I hit the red dot.....on the far right side of the Shoot N C multi target.
Royally offended at myself I finish the mag in single action. 6 shots in the center at 7 yards.

Now I'm ready to chuck the thing down range. But wait! I can order new grips : let's try the curved ones from S&W

*14 days later*

I load up in DA, slowly press to the rear......

"CLANG"

OMG. Did I just- yeah, I just shot the top of the target holder. Ears burning with embarrassment I emptied the mag in single action into the center.

Seven holes in one group, on a target bouncing around no less.This time I really do chuck it- into the used gun case in exchange for a beat up Beretta 92 LE trade in.

The 4506 and related models have a dear place on my phone screensaver folder, but I'll never own one again. A man's got to know his limitations.

[DpdG]

The FBI 1076 grips, which have a palm swell, really make the 4506/4566 feel somewhat between a P220 and a P226. Closer to the P220 really, but much less like the piece of 1x3 strapping the normal straight grips feel like. About 6 years ago I was able to order them from S&W customer service, no idea if you still can.

For purely nostalgic reasons I wish I kept that melonited de-cock only 4566. Probably wouldn't shoot it, but it was my first duty weapon, and the melonited ones are apprently somewhat rare.

[That Guy]

My first regular carry pistol was a 4506 police trade in. Spent 400 on it at the Black Hills Cabelas store, stuck it in a Sig P226 suede holster

Was this a square or round trigger guard 4506? I ask because Ms.1911 has one of those, and holsters are kind of difficult to find. If P226 holsters fit, well that'll make it easy. :)

(I've shot the piece a few times and I think it's awesome. Good trigger, very accurate, ridiculously low recoil... The grip is pretty large though. And I suppose it would be heavy as a carry gun. But as a shooter, daymn... Great gun!)

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[Tamara]

Was this a square or round trigger guard 4506? I ask because Ms.1911 has one of those, and holsters are kind of difficult to find. If P226 holsters fit, well that'll make it easy. :)

Lessons from the pawn shop gun clerk's used holster bin: Kydex is a whole different ballgame, but when it comes to leather holsters, the P226 is the Universal Holster and the CZ75 is the Universal Gun. Also, Sigmas fit most Glock 30 holsters, even Bladetech ones.

[Gary1911A1]

The FBI 1076 grips, which have a palm swell, really make the 4506/4566 feel somewhat between a P220 and a P226. Closer to the P220 really, but much less like the piece of 1x3 strapping the normal straight grips feel like. About 6 years ago I was able to order them from S&W customer service, no idea if you still can.

For purely nostalgic reasons I wish I kept that melonited de-cock only 4566. Probably wouldn't shoot it, but it was my first duty weapon, and the melonited ones are apprently somewhat rare.

I agree with you on the FBI Grips for the 1076 and don't know why S&W didn't make them standard on the lineup. S&W doesn't carry them anymore, but I got some before they were discontinued.

[GardoneVT]

Was this a square or round trigger guard 4506? I ask because Ms.1911 has one of those, and holsters are kind of difficult to find. If P226 holsters fit, well that'll make it easy. :)

(I've shot the piece a few times and I think it's awesome. Good trigger, very accurate, ridiculously low recoil... The grip is pretty large though. And I suppose it would be heavy as a carry gun. But as a shooter, daymn... Great gun!)

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Square. Beretta 92 leather holsters also fit, so Miami Vice cosplayers are in luck.

[That Guy]

Alas, at least Bianchi Accumold holster for the 92 did not fit. Almost, but the trigger guard is a tad smaller on the 92. (This experiment was brought to you by the UK who sold a bunch of not much used holsters as surplus. As the surplus store I saw the holster in didn't really know what the holster was for, I got one for not very much. Was worth the try...)

Anyways, thank you folks for the leather holster tips. I shall keep an eye on those.:) (I did buy her a custom made holster, but it's always good to have spares.)

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[Digiroc]

The hunt for Smith 3rd gen accessories is part of the joy of owning these classics. I have more holsters than guns. They are out there and available for the diligent searcher. EBay often has some and the Smith & Wesson forum is also a good resource. I just bought two DiSantis leather holsters, one for the medium frame semis and one for a J frame from a S&W forum member.

While you are unlikely to find one at your local gun shop, a bit of sleuthing will get you what you need.

Digiroc

[Lon]

For you Smith 39xx fans, there's a 3913TSW for sale over on the S&W forum that looks nice.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/guns-sale-trade/489340-f-s-smith-wesson-3913tsw-tsw-9mm.html

[OlongJohnson]

5906 trade-ins for $359.99 with free shipping. (https://www.sportsmansoutdoorsuperstore.com/products2.cfm/ID/217844)

[deputyG23]

For a while there, WV State Police, Kalifornia Highway Patrol, and perhaps a few other agencies, were holding S&W's feet to the fire, saying they didn't want no steenkin' M&P and if the firm could not supply them with 3rd Gen pistols, they would go elsewhere. I was told S&W grudgingly agreed, but moved all the tooling to the Houlton, ME facility.

Wonder if that is still the case?

.

Isn’t the RCMP still using the 5946?

[TheNewbie]

Isn’t the RCMP still using the 5946?


I tried researching this but couldn't find any solid data.

RCMP is a large force, but my understanding is S&W no longer makes 3rd gens period.

[MattyD380]

I was in Vancouver in 2018 and I'm 95% sure I saw 3rd gens in cop holsters at the airport--stainless, black grips, silhouette looked about right for a 59XX. I don't think airport cops are part of the RCMP... but... seems like the guns are still in service there. Also pretty sure I saw a 3rd gen in an NYPD holster when I was in NYC this spring.

[UNM1136]

Still kicking myself for not picking up that 1076 in 1994 for $500...

Aims still has 6906s for $349. Dunno how much longer I can resist.

pat

[JAH 3rd]

Back in '77-'78 I bought the above captioned pistol. It was my first pistol, blue finish. I had to send it back in for service due to the pistol's inability to be 100% reliable with JHP. I was using the Remington hollow point at the time. Not too many options back then. Seems like it was a known issue at the time. Got the pistol back and it was 100% thereafter. The 5906 I have now keeps me contented with that generation pistol. If you ever look at the frame from a machining aspect, the frame is a wonder of engineering and execution.

[OlongJohnson]

The hunt for Smith 3rd gen accessories is part of the joy of owning these classics. I have more holsters than guns. They are out there and available for the diligent searcher. EBay often has some and the Smith & Wesson forum is also a good resource. I just bought two DiSantis leather holsters, one for the medium frame semis and one for a J frame from a S&W forum member.

While you are unlikely to find one at your local gun shop, a bit of sleuthing will get you what you need.

Digiroc

I have a few pretty nice leather holsters for 6906s. PM me if interested, or maybe I'll get off my arse and put them in the classifieds.

[URIT]

I admit that I am a Smith & Wesson brand loyalist who is a big Gen3 fan. I have limited my accumulating to 9mm and .40 S&W with several models in each of the 3900, 4000, 5900, 6900 series. I avoided the .45 ACPs because there were so many nice models available that I'd have to buy another gun safe. My wife told me last year at this time that I might need a twelve-step group soon. I vowed not to buy any more in 2019, but that resolution failed before January became February and I had a nice model 3913LS in hand. A couple of months later, I saw a CS40 at a give-away price and snap it up. I enjoy shooting all my Gen3s - TDA and DAO semi-autos.

[Jhp147]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BusINLAjmEvNpnJOdN6IGgLZ-zhVTl35zfhJiE0/?igshid=1s0ulgyhjlf3k"]http://https://www.instagram.com/p/BusINLAjmEvNpnJOdN6IGgLZ-zhVTl35zfhJiE0/?igshid=1s0ulgyhjlf3k
Hated giving up my 3rd gen guns because they worked and DASA made sense to me. Shot and carried 3/4 of them with this 1988 5904 in IDPA and on duty. This gun, wearing RoGard and NP3, was in one of the first batches sent out to PD's or so I've been told. Shot a preproduction of this gun that had a mix of 459 and 5904 features...one extractor replaced, one ejector. When one goes, replace them both.

[BigT]

I was in Vancouver in 2018 and I'm 95% sure I saw 3rd gens in cop holsters at the airport--stainless, black grips, silhouette looked about right for a 59XX. I don't think airport cops are part of the RCMP... but... seems like the guns are still in service there. Also pretty sure I saw a 3rd gen in an NYPD holster when I was in NYC this spring.
I've always been surprised at how many Smiths I've noticed in NYPD holsters when I've been there.

[Det1397]

I've always been surprised at how many Smiths I've noticed in NYPD holsters when I've been there.

FYI, as per an NYPD MOS friend of mine, the S&W 3rd.Generation 5946 and it's off duty iterations (3914, 3913, 3954 etc) are no longer authorized, but grandfathered in. This is the current authorized lineup: On Duty- Sig P226, GLOCK 17 and 19; Off Duty- S&W Shield, Springfield XDs, GLOCK Gen 4/5 and Sig 239 DAO.
My trips into NYC reveal plenty of 5646s still in the duty holsters of officers, although as time goes by that will change.

[HCM]

I've always been surprised at how many Smiths I've noticed in NYPD holsters when I've been there.


FYI, as per an NYPD MOS friend of mine, the S&W 3rd.Generation 5946 and it's off duty iterations (3914, 3913, 3954 etc) are no longer authorized, but grandfathered in. This is the current authorized lineup: On Duty- Sig P226, GLOCK 17 and 19; Off Duty- S&W Shield, Springfield XDs, GLOCK Gen 4/5 and Sig 239 DAO.
My trips into NYC reveal plenty of 5646s still in the duty holsters of officers, although as time goes by that will change.

Yup. The Glock 17 was added when S&W ceased even limited production of the 5946. Fun fact - NYPD mandates their G17s be carried with 15 round magazines to match the capacity of the other authorized duty guns. I’m thinking this is mostly for admin purposes like ammo issue and range quals. With 40,000 cops most of whom aren’t gun people I can see why they might do something like that.

Re: off duty I thought only the DAO iterations (3953/3954) were authorized.

[Checkman]

Joining late.My father was Idaho State Police from 73-94. ISP transitioned to autos in 1991 when the organization went the 4586. Dad purchased a 4516-1 a year or so later just because. When he retired ISP gifted the pistol to him. Dad passed away in 2016 and I inherited both the pistols. A few days ago I picked up a 4513TSW (pre-rail) at a local auction (the photos of 4513 are from the auction company's site). I like the 3rd Gen pistols. I don't carry them and I only shoot them occasionally so I'm not worried about parts. Dad was a madman for magazines so I have plenty of those. My "real-world" gun is a GLOCK 19 (Gen 4) which accompanies on duty and off-duty and parts aren't an issue. So I am free to collect whatever grabs my fancy.

[medmo]

Sights are a nightmare on these guns. They made several front and rear variations over the years. This one has the later Novak rear style which is the best IMO. The dovetails are not the same and it's hard to find info on the specs.

I have a 10-8 performance rear on the way (.140 black U notch) that is said to fit. I plan on pairing it with a high vis front Trijicon HD or Ameriglo. I'm prepared to do some fitting.

Think me and a few others would definitely appreciate an update if you find a solution. Thanks

[revolvergeek]

Goes to show how individual an experience can be.

I loved the 4506 and was quite fine with the DAO version; both guns were, in my hands nearly as soft shooting as my gen2 G21. On the other hand, the 645 felt like a 2x4 in my hands and shooting it was like using a heavy recoiling 2x4, it wasn't pleasant at all.

That was my experience. I love my 4586 but ended up selling off my 645.


The FBI 1076 grips, which have a palm swell, really make the 4506/4566 feel somewhat between a P220 and a P226. Closer to the P220 really, but much less like the piece of 1x3 strapping the normal straight grips feel like. About 6 years ago I was able to order them from S&W customer service, no idea if you still can.

For purely nostalgic reasons I wish I kept that melonited de-cock only 4566. Probably wouldn't shoot it, but it was my first duty weapon, and the melonited ones are apprently somewhat rare.

Very cool stuff! I had never heard of the palm swell grips, nor the melonited 4566. Neato! :cool:

[revolvergeek]

Update on sights…

Contacted Trijicon direct and they agreed to tool up and make me a front night sight to fit this model. Appears they haven’t had a request for this specific model number sight in years, but they made it anyway. It took about 2 months to show up and fit was spot on.

10-8 performance has a U-notch rear for Novak style 1911’s that also fits some 3rd Gens. Fitting required is the key phrase here…it took a ton of filing but I’m happy with it now.

Overall, I like the new sights and wanted to show a couple more options out there for these pistols.

6785

6786

6787

thanks for posting that! I need to make a few phone calls and see if I can order a sight setup like that myself. That 10-8 rear by itself would make a huge improvement for my eyes.

[TheNewbie]

Joining late.My father was Idaho State Police from 73-94. ISP transitioned to autos in 1991 when the organization went the 4586. Dad purchased a 4516-1 a year or so later just because. When he retired ISP gifted the pistol to him. Dad passed away in 2016 and I inherited both the pistols. A few days ago I picked up a 4513TSW (pre-rail) at a local auction (the photos of 4513 are from the auction company's site). I like the 3rd Gen pistols. I don't carry them and I only shoot them occasionally so I'm not worried about parts. Dad was a madman for magazines so I have plenty of those. My "real-world" gun is a GLOCK 19 (Gen 4) which accompanies on duty and off-duty and parts aren't an issue. So I am free to collect whatever grabs my fancy.

Lost River

His posts about the 3rd gen smiths are awesome as well.

Thank you Checkman for posting this.

[Catshooter]

Ahh, third gen Smiths. I had one 6906, a pile of 4516s and two Shorty .45s. Every one of 'em would feed everything up to and including an empty case from the mag.

The 4516 were a bit heavy but wearing one out took work. But accurate? Oh hell no. Then I finally found a Shorty .45 I could afford and was in love. Shot the smallest offhand group with a pistol I ever did with the first one. Twenty yards, all eight rounds made a group that would completely hide behind a quarter. Much lighter than the '16s, it was a match made in heaven.

Then the support went to hell. *sigh*.

I do Glocks now, but if I had it to do over I should have just doubled down and stocked up on all the parts I needed, mags etc.

Such is life.


Cat

[OlongJohnson]

I believe this is the holster for the 6906 family of 3rd gens, if anyone is still looking. Will likely work with 3906 family as well. No affiliation with the seller.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Safariland-518-18-Paddle-Holster-For-S-W-Smith-Wesson-/363303850312

[OlongJohnson]

Another one. LH this time.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/403544826909

[Hemiram]

I love 3rd Gen S&W's! I have 4 currently, 6906, 5906(2) and a 4506. All are PD trade ins in excellent(One of the 5906's is near mint) or better condition. I wish parts were easier to find. If some aftermarket company would make just a few parts for them, or S&W would, I would buy some just for peace of mind. It's kind of crazy to me that you can find a ton of parts for a Dan Wesson 15-2 online, but S&W 3rd gen parts are few and far between. I don't have any interest in S&W's current lineup of handguns, period.

[revchuck38]

Here (https://www.classicfirearms.com/smith-wesson-915-semi-automatic-9x19mm-pistol-law-enforcement-turn-in-surplus-good-to-very-good-condition/). They had a bunch of other third-generation versions, these are what's left.