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Smith & Wesson Model 59 | |
---|---|
Type | Semi-automatic pistol |
Place of origin | United States |
Service history | |
Used by | United States |
Production history | |
Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
Produced | 1971 [1] [2] –1982 |
Specifications | |
Mass | 30 oz / 1.84 lb (0.840 kg) |
Length | 7.55 in (192 mm) |
Barrel length | 4 in (102 mm) |
Cartridge | 9×19mm Parabellum, 7.65×21mm Parabellum |
Action | DA/SA |
Rate of fire | Semi-automatic |
Feed system | 14-round double column, detachable box magazine (20-round factory magazines were available) |
Sights | fixed iron sights, optional adjustable |
The Smith & Wesson Model 59 is a double-action pistol produced from 1971 to 1982. It was developed by Smith & Wesson from the earlier Smith & Wesson Model 39 by adapting a 14-round capacity stagger-stack magazine.
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). All total, approximately 231,841 M59s were produced. [3]
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.
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.
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.
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