Seeking experienced opinions for the M-639?

smitholdtimer · #1 10-01-2013, 11:39 AM

I saw a M-639 on display at a recent Gun Show and was taken by its appearance. I have heard or read very little about this stainless model and am wondering if this is another one of the well made Semi-Autos from S&W or has this model been plagued with problems? I did not make the purchase but have been very curious to learn more ever since seeing this one. All my previous experience except for Rim Fire has been with the Revolver so I am interested in hearing any reports from you the experts here, thanks for your opinions!

mike from st pete · #2 10-01-2013, 06:53 PM

I got one a couple of weeks ago and have yet to get to the range with my 639. From what I have read on this forum they are a pretty solid pistol. They sure are heavy compared to the polymer, alloy frame pistols I have had.

Badkarma 1 · #3 10-01-2013, 10:16 PM

Mike from St. Pete pretty much said it.
The 39 series was popular but the coming of the 59, and the demand by police and civvies for more "firepower" led to the 39 family to lurk in the shadows. It wasn't till the compact 3913 that people recognized what a delightfully slim pistol the 39 series was, that and that accuracy beats firepower every time!
The 639 is a true beauty, wood grips on a stainless steel chassis...yeah I've drooled on a few myself!

its heavy meaning recoil is light even with hot loads, it will eat +P all day long, and take bad weather or sweat in stride as long as you wipe it down once a week.
The only downside I can think of is the double action trigger pull might be a bit tough, but since you shoot revolvers your ahead of the curve already. Other than that they are a nice reliable shooter and the accuracy ain't bad either.
Dale

smitholdtimer · #4 10-02-2013, 11:13 AM

mike from st pete & Badkarma 1, you answered my question and eased my fears, the deal is working now and may come to pass in the near future. The call came in as I was typing and it will be delivered some time within the next couple weeks, has original box and papers but no tools, only one magazine. Anyone have the tools and extra magazines they could share? Again, I really appreciate the feedback.

mike from st pete · #5 10-02-2013, 07:49 PM

Finally got to the range and shot my new 1987 S&W 639. About 75 rounds and all the flyers were my fault.
After market magazines a a bit longer as they hold 9 instead of 8 rounds. I got three with mine two S&W and the other after market. I only used to two S&Ws for the maiden range trip.
The single action take up seems long but I'll adjust.
Happy shooting smitholdtimer.

Badkarma 1 · #6 10-02-2013, 10:59 PM

Mags were still available from S&W at $42 a mag last time I looked, but they are 9 rounders now instead of 8 since its the same mag the 952 uses and was made longer during the end run of the 3rd gen 3904-3906 and 909.
As for the tools, start haunting the forums "For Sale" thread and maybe a gun show or two.
Let us know how your 639 shoots.
Dale

smitholdtimer · #7 10-03-2013, 12:23 PM

Thanks for all the good information, looking forward to its arrival!

jimbo-indy · #8 10-03-2013, 12:42 PM

The 639 is a fine pistol. Watch Midway for mag's. They frequently have them on sale for around $30.
I have found my 639 to be accurate and very reliable. It's weight absorbs recoil of the hotest handloads. It built like a tank and should last for many lifetimes. Mine is a frequent carry gun as the S/S finish shrugs off moisture. My only dislikes is that it has a magizine disconnect so you can't fire while the mag is out and the safety is a decocker so you can't carry "cocked and locked". Otherwise, I love it.