A recent posting and question about a Devel conversion model 39 got me to thinking about these guns again. I acquired my first model 39 in 1977 and had heard of the Devel conversions and I thought of having it done to my gun but that never happened, sure wish I had gone through with it. Anyone here have one they would share info on. Actually info on any of the conversions from that era would be fun to hear about and maybe see some pics of. ASP and Behlert come to mind, were there any others, and which came first, ASP I think but correct me if I'm wrong.

Keith

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kbgrips.com

I don't know anything about them but there have actually been a couple on GunBroker in recent weeks if you want to see some pics and details.

Here's some information on Charles C. Kelsey, Jr..

The Gun Zone -- Charlie Kelsey

and here

ASP pistol - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Rule 303

My Full House DEVEL 39, and ASP 39 Conversions.

My DEVEL Full House Model 59 Conversion, and My ASP Ruger Security Six 357 to 5 shot 44 Special Police Swat Conversion.

My "Steath" ASP 39 with Black Grips, concealment magazine, with 4 spare magazines, holster, two double magnetic magazine pouches, and ASP marked zipper gun rug.

Finally My DEVEL Basic Cut Model 39.

I collect Model 39's, and these custom Model 39's were very important, leading the way for Gun companies in making/coming up with smaller concealment handguns. The S&W Model 3913 is similar to the Basic Cut DEVEL 39, and the S&W Model(s) 469/669 are similar to the DEVEL Full House Model 59. Smith&Wesson's production of these guns, put DEVEL basically out of business, as they were mass produced, and alot less expensive, and easier to get (no wait time).
When I first became a cop, the choice for off-duty carry guns were a Colt Commander, a Normal size Model 39, or a Chief Special, to name a few. When the DEVEL'S first came out, I really wanted one, because of it's size and special features, but I could not afford one, however over time I was able to acquire both the DEVELS, and ASPS. They are retired now (mostly because they are so exspensive), and since both companies are long gone, they probably can't be repaired by just anybody if they needed repair work.
There are DEVELS and ASPS out there for sale/purchase once in a while, but they cost alot, when they do come up, usually in the $2-3,000 range.
The best place to view all the various DEVELS are at Wayne Novak's website, in his personal collection section. Wayne knows all about the guns, and has helped me with my quest for information in the past.

Thanks for the input and links guys. Model39, thanks for the pictures, don't remember ever hearing of the Security Six conversion do you know if many of them were done. The Stealth package is pretty cool, I'd bet the marked gun rug is a pretty scarce item. Did you find the ASP to be reliable, I have been told that they had function problems but not really sure if that was based on actual experience or just talk. I still have the Guns & Ammo July 78 issue with the Devel 39 on the cover, that got me thinking pretty hard but the following month I got married and started selling guns for appliances and furniture, what a person will do for love! I also have the Feb 72 Guns with a Nonte article on the ASP. Great info and pics on the Novak site. Thanks for the fix guys!

Keith

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kbgrips.com

There are a total of 96 ASP/Ruger revolver conversions. The one I have is called a "Special Police Swat" revolver conversion. Most were fixed sights guns with the shorter barrel. I may have the only 1 of this type of conversion. The frame is stamped 101. I have never seen or heard of another mentioned except in the ASP catalog.

I recall that article in G&A that Keith is talking about. They had nothing but good to say about the Devel conversion. I recently (yesterday) aquired a 669 and I sure understand the attraction. What a nice little carry piece! Those converted guns of yours are fantastic, 39!

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Even older, even crankier....

Remembering back 40-50 years, I seem to recall that the earliest conversions were not known for reliability. At the time, the first generation semi-auto hollowpoint ammo had exposed lead that dragged on the feed ramp. Of course, there were others doing what I think was called "chopping and channeling." That was a transition period and it took a lot of trial and error to get it all right.

The Ruger Asp .44 Spl. is the cover / give-away gun in the May-June, 1983 American Handgunner. The blurb says the SWT conversions were also available in the stock .38/.357/9mm calibers.

It's the cover gun with a Richard Rosenthal article in the April, 1982 Combat Handguns.

Both articles say that conversions would be done on 2.75 and 4 inch revolvers.