I got confused about the different S&W models! Was looking to buy a 6906 until I was told it's a DA only! So, which models in a metal pistol, compact SA ?

I believe the 6906 is SA/DA, not DAO. The third digit designates the action type:

FIRST TWO DIGITS
39: 9mm
59: 9mm
69: 9mm compact double stack
10: 10mm
40: 40S&W
45: 45 ACP
35: .357 TSW

THIRD DIGIT
0: standard model
1: compact
2: standard with decocker
3: compact with decocker
4: standard with DAO
6: nonstandard barrel length
7: nonstandard barrel length with decocker
8: nonstandard barrel length with DAO

FOURTH DIGIT
3: aluminum frame with SS slide
4: aluminum frame with carbon steel slide
5: carbon steel frame and slide
6: SS frame and slide
7: SS frame and carbon steel slide

'rider,

Or, a "completely different" compact SA approach:



Mike

Already got a Officer's Model 1911, looking for a 9mm!!
I'm so confused now

In making an assumption that your search for a compact model is any thing with a 3 1/2 barrel or less in 9mm, would limit your models to 3913, 3914, 6904,and 6906, in the 3rd generation family. These are all traditional double action, meaning long trigger pull on the first round but follow ups would be a short single action. If you want to go smaller there is the CS9 at 3". This model you have to watch because is was available in traditional double action and also a double action only. The traditional double actions will have a safety/decocker on the slide.

The last two on the right are 9mm, a 6906 and 3913

__________________
Mike in SouthCentral Kentucky

So, is there a S&W 9mm compact SA ???

No, there isn't.

Fixed it! And a photo of my 3954 just fer fun:

I am not sure if it is available in 9mm, but S&W does offer a 1911 Pro Series with a 3" barrel. Most of what I have seen is all in .45

__________________
Mike in SouthCentral Kentucky