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01-12-2012, 09:06 PM
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S&W model 39
Don't know why, other than I think it's a good looking gun-the nickel plated version of the model 39 is holding my interest. I have a small collection of S&W revolvers (13), but have no autos in S&W. My autos consist of a Kimber Pro Carry 45 ACP and the Kimber 9mm Aegis. I also have a Ruger Mark 2. I've been told that there were feed problems with the earlier 39's, and that the problem was "fixed" when the model#'s changed to 3 numbers. I've been watching the prices on the 39's, and they range from $450 to $800 depending on condition. But it seems they are selling for $500-$600. Before I get serious about persuing the 39, any comments or suggestions on what to look for, and what I should really pay for a nice nickel 39?
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01-12-2012, 09:19 PM
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The 39-2 is a great auto. Everything you would want in a 9mm auto. A real classic, you will love it. Not sure on nickel prices, I have two blued ones.
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01-12-2012, 09:25 PM
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I have a number of S&W semi-autos. None feel better in my hand than my 39-2. It's a nickel version, and it's a beauty for sure. My 3906 is more of a work horse - a nice range pistol. They both shoot well and I've had no issues with FTF or FTE on either of these fine pistols, shooting a broad variety of ammo.
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01-12-2012, 09:52 PM
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I vaguely recall complaints about 39s and Super Vel ammo, but that was a long time ago. That is about all I can think of. With modern ammo, I would expect very good reliability with a 39, assuming gun and magazines are in good condition.
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01-13-2012, 12:55 AM
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I got some Super Vel for my Glock 17 and it wouldn't feed. Gave them to a friend with a Model 39 and they worked great in his pistol.
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01-13-2012, 02:02 AM
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Had a friend who owned a very early all steel 39 in mint condition. Always hoped to talk him out of it. He passed away and the gun disappeared, along with his recipe for the best pancakes on the planet.
I think the early steel 39s hold extra collector value, but as shooters they should be able to handle hot ammo better than the alloy jobs I would think.
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01-13-2012, 02:39 AM
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I have an old, well worn 39 that I picked up from AIM for $235. The trigger is better than the 3 or 4 digit guns and it is fun to shoot. Being single stack, the grip is nicer to me than the newer ones. I like it enough that I would like to have another one. (or two).
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01-13-2012, 10:57 AM
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Not a 39-2 but a Model 59 Nickel; shoots as well as it looks!
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01-13-2012, 12:06 PM
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39's are great pistols.
Often overlooked today because of the "limited" round-capacity,they are wonderful shooters,and usually very reliable.
I feed mine mostly 115gr reloads,and there are rarely any issues.
Accuracy is as good as any other regular production auto-loader that I have used,and better than a few of my revolvers!
My particular 39 is from 1960,and when I first bought it I was quite suprized to see a guide rod in it. Smith & Wesson must have been one of the first companies to do that with auto-loaders..
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01-13-2012, 05:23 PM
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Bought my first model 39 while I was stationed in the Canal Zone in 1970. Had to sell it to another GI when I transferred to the States. Now have two 39-2's I've had for years. Great pistols, fit my hand well and shoot well!
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01-14-2012, 09:42 AM
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I have a 39-2 and when I first bought it I had problems big time. FTFs about every 3rd round. I tried about everything I could think of then called S&W sometime in 1985. They said mine had been recalled. I sent the pistol to them and they put in a new barrel, barrel bushing, recoil spring, guide rod and tuned it. It came back about 6 weeks later and it has not had a failure to feed, eject since it came back. The recall was limited to a certain run. Mine is a blued version and I paid 350 for it back then. It has been an outstanding pistol since it came back. Although I am a fan of the 45acp and carry both a full size 1911 and a CS45, the 39-2 is such a nail driver that I dont feel under gunned when I carry it.
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01-14-2012, 10:47 AM
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I've owned four 39's over the years. Three were -2's, the other probably was, but I didn't know about such things back then. I traded the first two off for other things and kicked my butt for it right away.
I've got two now. They're the only semi-auto's I own, other than a MK II, 22 that's actually my wife's. Great guns. Very comfortable in the hand and to carry.
1971 (l) 1978 (r)
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01-14-2012, 11:02 AM
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I'm more of a revolver fan. I picked up a 39-2 in a lgs one sunday and after some range time I have become a fan of the 39-2. The pistol fits my hand and shoots well. I don't think you can go wrong with a 39-2.
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01-14-2012, 11:48 AM
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Nickel Model 39-2
I collect Model 39's. I have always thought they were the best looking of any of the S&W autos made. The ratio of Blue finish to Nickel finish Models 39's is quite high since the process of nickel plating alloy frames was alway more difficult. I bought this nickel Model 39-2 many years ago. The gun looked somewhat dull with the peanut butter colored walnut grips that came on it, so to perk it up I got/put these nicely figured smooth Rosewood grips on it which really make the gun jump out when you see it.
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01-14-2012, 12:03 PM
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I think the 39 was one of the nicest autos S&W produced. I have my 39-2 for a number of years and love it.
Had the chance some time ago to pick up a minty nickle plated 39-2 for $325. I thought about it to long and my Dr. grabbed it!
My only other Smith auto was a CS45, I didn't like it so I gave it to my son, he liked it!
For the most part I'll stick with my revolvers
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01-14-2012, 12:24 PM
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Someday I'd like to buy and shoot a Model 52; would probably trade my Model 41 (minty condition) for one.
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01-14-2012, 05:01 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by M29since14
I vaguely recall complaints about 39s and Super Vel ammo, but that was a long time ago. That is about all I can think of. With modern ammo, I would expect very good reliability with a 39, assuming gun and magazines are in good condition.
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I can imagine so. Super Vel was a +P ammunition before it's time. We used it in some of our police Model 10's and they had to be rebuilt and tightened after a steady diet of Super Vel. Great stuff for when you needed it, but not for every day shooting.
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01-14-2012, 05:04 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bennettfam
Had a friend who owned a very early all steel 39 in mint condition. Always hoped to talk him out of it. He passed away and the gun disappeared, along with his recipe for the best pancakes on the planet.
I think the early steel 39s hold extra collector value, but as shooters they should be able to handle hot ammo better than the alloy jobs I would think.
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The 39's are alloy jobs. All frames were alloy. Ophs, forgot about the 39's with no dash.
Last edited by Armyphotog; 01-15-2012 at 01:28 PM.
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01-14-2012, 06:27 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Armyphotog
The 39's are alloy jobs. All frames were alloy.
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There were a few less than 1000 steel frame Model 39s made. They bring premium prices.
The 39 was my first issued duty gun. When we went to 439s I bought my 39. It's a tack driver.
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01-14-2012, 06:49 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Armyphotog
I can imagine so. Super Vel was a +P ammunition before it's time. We used it in some of our police Model 10's and they had to be rebuilt and tightened after a steady diet of Super Vel. Great stuff for when you needed it, but not for every day shooting.
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Great stuff. I've had this box for 30+ years. Would look good with a nice M39-wish I had one Bruce
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01-14-2012, 11:36 PM
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ispcapt: Looks like that 39 (no dash) has the two- piece extractor modification. Wish I could find one of those.
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01-15-2012, 10:52 PM
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Do ALL Model 39-2's have alloy frames?
gold40
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01-15-2012, 11:51 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cyrano
ispcapt: Looks like that 39 (no dash) has the two- piece extractor modification. Wish I could find one of those.
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Yes it does. Haven't seen any parts for such modification in quite a few years. Don't know if S&W or anyone else still carries it. Wish I could help.
The picture makes the finish look worse than it really is. It has holster wear on the muzzle end of the slide, along the trigger guard and some on the sides. The picture as the grainy texture which makes it look rough.
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Last edited by ispcapt; 01-15-2012 at 11:54 PM.
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01-24-2012, 06:01 PM
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if you are interested I have traded for a model 39-2 nickel, and i am looking to sell it. When I pick it up tomorrow,I can send pics if you are still looking
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01-24-2012, 06:25 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by olwogo
if you are interested I have traded for a model 39-2 nickel, and i am looking to sell it. When I pick it up tomorrow,I can send pics if you are still looking
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I would be interested, especially if it is in great condition. PM me the details.
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01-24-2012, 06:59 PM
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I shall! I will receive it tomorrow. I'll contact you tomorrow.
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01-24-2012, 07:04 PM
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I had a model 39 Smith years ago with the alloy frame and sure wish I had never sold it. It was a good shooter.
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01-24-2012, 07:34 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by gold40
Do ALL Model 39-2's have alloy frames?
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Yes, they are all alloy frames. Only the earlier Model 39 was made in very small quantities with a steel frame, while the later 539's and 639's also had steel frames (blued or nickeled and stainless, respectively).
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04-04-2012, 02:39 AM
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S & W model 39
I have been reading with much interest the posts on the 39's and if they come in steel or alloy. I have collected them for years and can offer the following from the older Gun Digest and my own collection of guns:
They started with the Pre 39 model which has just a serial number and no 39 stamp. Serial numbers are #1000 thru #2600 and alloy frame only.
Next is the 39 which comes in blue alloy or steel frame. There were less than 1000 made in the steel frame.
Next is the 39-2 which comes in blue or nickel alloy.
Next is the 439 which comes in blue or nickel alloy.
Next is the 539 which comes in blue or nickel steel.
Last is the 639 which is a stainless model.
All the alloy frames noted above have steel slides.
There is rumor of a nickel alloy 39 and a blue 39-2 in 7.65mm caliber but I have never come across either one of these.
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04-04-2012, 07:15 PM
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I got this #39-2 last week. No box, one mag. A forum member sent me these nice stocks for it, as the originals needed refinishing.
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04-04-2012, 10:49 PM
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The 3rd gen version of a nickel 39....a polished SS 3906
Last edited by sop; 04-04-2012 at 11:06 PM.
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04-05-2012, 11:07 AM
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Don't forget about the USN Model 39, AKA the Mk22.
Also, the SAO model 39, the M44
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04-05-2012, 11:46 AM
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In reference to my post earlier in this thread, I will not be letting this weapon go. I made the mistake of shooting it! This is a real joy to shoot! After careful consideration, I believe this will be one of the guns in my collection when I die!! >
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04-05-2012, 11:52 AM
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Exactly. I have a 39 and a 39-2 that will be staying with me for a while. From time to time I have let a few things go, but there's always another that comes back home.
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04-05-2012, 03:09 PM
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I finally picked up a 39-2. It is a joy to shoot.
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04-19-2015, 11:49 AM
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Model 39's
I have 3 39's
One Nickel on Steel 39 no dash in a silver box.
One Nickel on Alloy 39-2 Blue Box with Mother of Pearl grips and original grips also.
One Blue Alloy 39-2 Blue Box all original.
Just got them out of the safe after 20 years to look at them.
WOW.
Last edited by rbclark; 04-19-2015 at 02:54 PM.
Reason: Adding Pictures
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04-19-2015, 11:55 AM
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I agree with the earlier post that the 39-2 is the best looking self-defense semi-auto S&W has ever made. Period.
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04-19-2015, 12:37 PM
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Don't tell my 1911's I said this but the 39 fits and feels better than any other semi auto hand gun I've tried, bit like shaking hands with an old friend. As far as function goes the 39 likes to be run wet, dry not so much. Good luck in your search!
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04-19-2015, 12:41 PM
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[QUOTQUOTEE=Cyrano;136287579]I got some Super Vel for my Glock 17 and it wouldn't feed. Gave them to a friend with a Model 39 and they worked great in his pistol.[/QUOTE]
Liar, how can anything be better than "Perfection." 😉
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04-19-2015, 01:10 PM
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I bought a 39-2 a while ago and it seems to finds it's way into my range bag every time I go shooting.
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05-16-2015, 12:12 PM
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My 39-2 resides in safety while my SR9 does duty on the nightstand so that the S&W doesn't end up in an evidence locker.
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05-17-2015, 02:37 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by shawn mccarver
I agree with the earlier post that the 39-2 is the best looking self-defense semi-auto S&W has ever made. Period.
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I agree with ^^^^. I bought my 39-2 in the late 60's and my 52-2 in the 70's. I've bought many pistols since them but those 2 remain my favorites.
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11-29-2015, 03:55 AM
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Hello rbclark, can you post more pictures of the 39 in nickel? Which one is it in the pictures you included?
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11-29-2015, 04:25 AM
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This is a No 39 (pre 39 designation) 9mm Blue engraved with Serial Number 2152. One of my favorite from my collection.
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11-29-2015, 06:48 AM
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I have a 639 and a blued 1972 39-2 love them both. last week I laidaway a 1980 39-2 in the box man ill have 3 now. great guns and great shooters.
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11-29-2015, 01:20 PM
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A M39-2 was my first centerfire pistol. Still have it & after a trip to Barstow (back in the 1983) it now fires 9x21 as well as 9mm. I should have bought a 9mm barrel from Barstow when I had the chance as they have not offered them in a long time. It needs a trip outside for photos.
I also have a 39 no dash NIB.
Box
End
Label
Instructions
Peeling back the layers
M39 no dash
Funky follower
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02-15-2016, 12:01 PM
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39-2 Horz Shoulder Holster
Been looking for a "formed" horz draw shoulder holster for my 39-2 I love all the features and shooting quality
The choices seems sparse for my needs. Got several Glocks and Kimber but the 39-2 has a better Conceal Profile
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02-15-2016, 12:45 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by arrmgr
Been looking for a "formed" horz draw shoulder holster for my 39-2 I love all the features and shooting quality
The choices seems sparse for my needs. Got several Glocks and Kimber but the 39-2 has a better Conceal Profile
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I have recently been searching for current production holsters for my 439 so I can exercise my CFP with it. For the most part, they just don't exist unless you go with something custom.
Fortunately, I had a Galco vertical shoulder holster for my 1911s which holds my 439 quite well. I was fortunate enough to find a gentleman that worked with me in locating a Kydex IWB holster that fit my 439. Front Line makes a line of tuckable IWB holsters for the S&W model 69 that grasps the slide forward of the ejection port, and works fantastically with the 439, and should work with the 39.
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12-05-2016, 04:33 PM
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Sorry to "necro" this thread, but I have the chance (I hope) to get a 39-2. I always wanted one and now I can get one in real nice shape for a reasonable price. Naturally, I have been concerned about the reports of ammo problems with them. But I think a trip to S&W would cure any problems I might encounter. I am a fan of 147 grain 9MM and I heard that is where problems might arise.
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12-05-2016, 07:10 PM
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I got my 39-2 in 1969, It was serial # A1869xx".
I had trouble feeding Super-Vels.
The trouble was...
When you look at the feed ramp there is a hump in the middle.
The nose of the hollow point would hit just below the hump on the steepest part of the ramp.
I just smoothed out the hump and never had another problem.
I had that gun until just recently and can agree with everyone here...
It is the most comfortable gun I've ever had.
Last edited by tom 45; 12-05-2016 at 07:11 PM.
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Tags
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1911, 3906, 45acp, 539, 639, cs45, extractor, glock, kimber, m39, model 10, model 39, model 41, model 52, rosewood, ruger, s&w, walnut |
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