I've always liked the way they look. I've read some good, and some bad. I like the blue with the wood grips. I just bought a 1076 and a 622 my first S&W semis other than a Shield. I have several S&W revolvers. I want something kinda pretty, but still a shooter. I'm not a collecter. It won't be my edc. I rarely see one locally. Or even here. Anything to beware of? Price range for a nice shooter? Is GB a good source?

Please feel free to share your photos along with your knowledge. Thank you.

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Just hanging with my dogs

Sorry that I have no pictures. I own two 39-2's and they are terrific. On the plus side, they are classic, iconic and historically significant. And it's been my experience across five different pistols that the single action trigger break is REALLY very nice for a high volume production gun. The 39-2 simply feels terrific in my (and most people's) hands. They are easy to field strip and maintain and there are truckloads of parts if something goes wrong. They made nearly 400,000 of these, a true testament, in my opinion.

There are some "negatives", or at least points to be aware of. The alloy frame does wear. A mint one looks all the same blue/black but the upper and lower wear differently over time and use. There are many on the market that may look like they have been drug behind a truck. Accuracy is decent and solid but please don't expect a target pistol. Some will NEVER see this angle but it exists just the same.

Magazines that will fit are still made by S&W and billed as 3906/952. Work 100% but they don't look quite right.

The biggest potential issue or thing to be aware of is that the 1st Gen 39/59 do not have firing pin safeties and there are (rare) cases of metal fatigue/failure of the hammer block. That doesn't mean they are "unsafe", but they absolutely trail modern handguns here in 2016 in that manner. They are not as "drop safe" as a modern, current handgun.

As there were so many made, it's fantastic pistol for a gun lover who has little interest in collecting mint, rare, expensive high grade collectibles. If getting a REALLY great deal is high on your list of priorities -- this is a gun that will give many opportunities to wait for the "right" deal.

Yes, I am a genuine fan of the 39-2 and YES, you should definitely chase one down.

Franklin's in Athens had a S&W 39 of some sort and two 469's two weeks ago.

Why wouldn't you want one? They feel great in the mitt, and in my opinion, it's the finest looking auto that Smith produced. It's the closest thing to a classic Smith revolver, anyway.

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Because of the metric system?

I love my 39-2... but I would not rule out a single stack 2nd or 3rd gen if an excellant example comes your way. The later generations have improved sights among other features. But a single stack 39 series is a classic. I'll never be without one (or more).

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NRA LIFE
Reserve Officer 9yrs

Because they rock!

I carried a 39-2 early in my law enforcement career and I loved it.
If you get one, you won't regret it. Be patient and one will come around on the forum.

Here is mine

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What I want to know is why S&W is still not making the 39-2?

I have a 39 and a 39-2. I shoot the 39-2 fairly frequently. It is just a great pistol. Also, for a shooter, it will not break the bank.

Because they are an awesome piece of history, they feel good in your hand, and they still get the job done.

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WWSSD?
What would Skeeter do?

I collected Model 39's for years. The early pre-Model 39's had the short safeties which were somewhat awkward to use and the long extractors on both the pre-39's and the steel frame/plain-39's were known to break. and if you should use one of these types today and break the extractor it would be very difficult to get a replacement part for your gun. The Model 39-2's are great guns. The fit very well in one's hand, and can be used with almost any type of ammo. The pre-Model 39's were the first double action pistol made in the United States, and when the different custom gunsmiths/companies ASP, DEVEL, Behlert, and Trapper started cutting down the Model 39's, the Model 39's can be credited with the Smith&Wesson Factory introducing the Model 3913, and subsequent mini guns. To me the Model 39 is the best looking auto pistol Smitn&Wesson made. No Smith&Wesson collection or for that matter gun collection should be without a Model 39.

pics required...the gun speaks for itself.

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Well, time marches on, really. The 39-2 and it's double stack buddy the 59 were superceded by the 2nd Gen pistols in 1982. Updated features, options, finishes and eventually different sizes also.

My first centerfire handgun was a model 39, back in the early 70's. Like a dumbo I traded it off.
A few years ago a friend ( a real horse trader) had one and we did some trading.. I probably got took on the deal but I wanted it. It is a shooter and not a safe queen.

I love the way it fits my hand and it shoots great. But I shot it in a couple local matches and the double action / single action drives me crazy. Always hunting for the trigger for the second shot. Probably too many years behind a 1911.

But, one of the best pointing handguns I've ever had in my hands..
They are a fun gun to shoot. And are a keeper. Enjoy ...

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If S&W can start up production again for the Model 66 as part of their classic series, they should still be making the 39-2 as well! Sig just started making an updated version of their P210 which originally came out in 1949. S&W should do the same with the 39 series.

With all due respect... S&W should not bring back the 39-2. I'd like to see a 3rd gen in SS or, perhaps better, a new single stack in SS with the wood grip panels.

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NRA LIFE
Reserve Officer 9yrs

FWIW-After buying a blue/black 39-2 last year I wish I would have waited to find one in Nickel. As Stevens said the frame and slide finishes age differently. Mine is not in bad shape at all but sorta looks a two-tone pistol.

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All very nice and thanks for the pics. It was also my first purchased back in 74. Price back then was $125 for a new one at my LGS anyway. Traded but am just as happy with my CS-9. Grab one if available as have not seen any out my way.

You want one , you can afford it , don't wonder why.....just get it !

Life's short , so enjoy these things while you can. I wish I had.

Yes you should.

1. They are good guns....period.
2. Fit and finish are excellent.
3. They are historically significant.
4. They can still be found at fair prices.
5. They are the most beautiful S&W pistol ever (IMO).

Here's my 39-2 that I bought in a pawn shop less than two years ago for $350.

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I'm gonna grow fins.

Everything loeman said!
I wouldn't sell or trade mine for all the tea in China!
I boned myself several years ago and left a nickel plated version go to my doctor! I'm still kicking myself for that one and I've yet to see another one since!

By all means, get a nice one -

1. Great history
2. Sharp looks
3. Ergonomic
4. Reliable
5. Still useful

I got this one as new in the box; it's one of my favorite Smiths.

John

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- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Have always wanted one.......

Have owned 3 or 4 over the years.......

They have set in the safe over the years; especially after the introduction of the 3913/6906 in 1989...............

Have traded 3 or 4 over the years..........

Have at least 3 or 4 extra magazines for a 39/639.....................

Currently would buy another if I could find one (639)...........


What more can I say..................................

With a pretty good sized collection of semi-autos to shoot, I'd have to say that none feel as good in my hand or point as well as my 39-2. The ergonomics are superb. My SIG P225 comes in second.
This is a pistol that is a pleasure to shoot, field strip, and just generally contemplate. I've not considered using mine as an EDC piece, choosing rather one of my third gen S&W's or a SIG.
I honestly cannot say that anything S&W (or anyone else) has built - approaches the eye-pleasing dimensions and scale, and mechanical function of this iconic design. It is the grandpappy of all of the more common 3rd GEN pistols. I believe it would be nearly impossible to built this pistol again, at the same levels of quality, for much less than a thousand bucks a copy.

Often figured we would be paying close to a grand for these series 39s or 3913s today. Sure applies to rifles and shotguns with black walnut stocks and high polish finishes of yesterday. I know my old Rem. 700 that is still built today has tripled from the $325 I paid 32 years back.

I haven't been to Franklins yet. But would like too.

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Just hanging with my dogs

Double like

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Just hanging with my dogs

I picked up a real nice 39-2 a few months back for $ 470 plus tax .
I have already turned down an offer of $ 600 . You just dont find 39s very often anymore, especialy as nice as this one.
These are beautiful guns . I agree, the best looking semi auto pistol
S & W ever made. I already have a 639 that I bought about 12 years ago for $ 300 . Although I am primarily a revolver guy ,These two are keepers for sure.

Lewis

Well, everyone above said about all I can say. I've had several 9 MM semi-autos and I've sold all of them but the 39-2. It fills the bill for me in fit and finish. I love the size and feel in my hand. I have never had any issues with the one I bough used. Mine is a 1976 and I still shoot it every month at the range.

About Gunbroker: I feel that the prices there are way too high. I think that this is due to the "national" audience they have. What I mean is; a 39-2 in your area may be worth $350 but in some other area it's worth $450. the people in the $450 area will bid the gun up above the $350 worth just because their area values the gun more. What I'm trying to say is: look locally. Look in all the local gun shops and just keep looking, I will bet you will find one for a reasonable price. parts are still available for them, (some) and springs are readily available from Wolf's.

You will not be unhappy with the 39-2. It's a historic pistol and to me, that's worth way more than the third generation pistols. They will never be "historical". They are just plain old production pistols that are slight improvements from one another. They are like iphones, everyone has one and they are all the same. The model 39-2 is historic and you won't see another one everytime you go to the range.

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Remember...Squeeze!

iAmmo has a listing for M39-2's right now.....typical with these guns they will come with repatriation markings on them.....but to me thats no different than LE agency markings....shooter grade to be sure...my 3913NL came from there via Israeli police and is my guilt free EDC

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witty signature goes here

Thanks. I had checked them out, they only have the grade c in stock. I certainly don't need or want to pay LNIB, but something more purdy than their grade c.

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Just hanging with my dogs

....think project..

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witty signature goes here

I love my 39-2 Now looking for a shoulder holster for it Can't seem to find a Galco etc that it fits snugly and Ideas?

Check out Bianchi X-15..... med I think...........

Thanks for the idea. I prefer a horizantal draw holster
Seems like no one ever carried this in a shoulder holster in its day

LOL......39s were ....... pre horizontal..... Mimi-Vice was mid-80s to 1990..... Sonny carried a Bren-10 then a 4506.