Whats the difference? I know the 9 is 9mm, the 0 is Standard, and the 6 is stainless slide and frame. Any help?

I made up this list a few years ago. It is for the 4-digit pistols, known as the 3rd Generation. Newer models will have TSW at the end, if production of that model continued.

The list does not include the 3-digit Performance Center, Economy Line or 2nd Generation pistols. You really need to get a copy of SCSW to see everything.

10xx 10mm
22xx .22 rimfire
39xx 9mm single stack
40xx .40 caliber
45xx .45 caliber
59xx 9mm double stack full size
69xx 9mm double stack compact

xx0x TDA full size
xx1x TDA compact
xx2x Frame decocker full size
xx3x Frame decocker compact
xx4x DAO full size
xx5x DAO compact
xx6x TDA mid size
xx7x Frame decocker mid size
xx8x DAO mid size
xx9x Non standard combination

xxx0 Scandium frame
xxx3 Alloy frame silver
xxx4 Alloy frame black
xxx5 Steel frame blue
xxx6 Stainless steel frame
xxx7 Non standard combination

Not all number combination were produced, and some were only made in limited numbers.

The 6906 doesn't really match anything. It was introduced before the digit codes were standardized. In reality, it should be a 6913.

The 6906 is the compact version of the 5906, 3.5" vs 4.0" barrel, 12rd vs 15rd mags. One thing to throw a wrench in things is that the 6906 is a alloy frame where you would think by it's numbering it would be all steel.

Besides the size, the 6906 weighs about a pound less. I been carrying one since 1994. Couldn't imagine carrying my 5906 IWB daily. Joe

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Wisdom chases me; I'm faster

I carried a department issued 5906 on my hip for three years. My department then switched to the Glock M22. I couldn't get used to the weight (or lack their of) for a while. I had several slight panic moments as I quickly put my right hand on my holster (thinking I forgot my gun in the jail lock box) only to find my Glock nestled away in the holster, safe and sound. I was able to buy back my 5906 and still enjoy shooting it from time to time. Almost no recoil with the heavy gun.

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Loubob608

While all 3rd Gens are related, a 6906 is really a compact 5903. They are much more comparable in weight and both have alloy frames.