I have been considering a model 5903 (lighter alloy frame) with adjustable sights or the model 5906 (all steel heavier frame) with adjustable sights. My main use will be recreational target shooting, not as a carry weapon, but may carry it at some point.
Anyway, a friend who carried a 5903 at his police department years ago stated that they had several 5903s that experienced fractured frames that they attributed to the alloy versus steel.
I asked someone at S&W and they had no knowledge of it, but then again, these haven't been produced for awhile.
Anyone have any first-hand experience or knowledge with this?
Thanks for the help.

I have no first hand knowledge of the 5903, but for a gun that is primarily a range toy or a house gun it would stand to reason that the heavier 5906 would be more comfortable to shoot. It is likely more durable than the alloy frame gun, but unless you're going to shoot a ton of hot ammo it probably would not make much difference in actual practice. I have a couple of 5906's, and they are good shooters and very robust.

The other benefit of the 5906 over the 5903 is that it's easier to clean up any blemishes. You can sand out any light scratches and bead blast the frame to factory finish relatively easily.

Excellent point. Many if not most of the alloy framed gen3 guns I see look pretty tired. The all stainless guns can usually be cleaned up real nicely with no more than a Scotchbrite pad.

I've carried heavy-ish guns & you need a proper solid belt holster if you choose to carry.
The heavier steel frame will outlast & be easier to shoot by far. I'd buy the 5906 of these 2 choices.

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NRA LIFE
Reserve Officer 9yrs

I had a 5906, and yes it's heavy for the wicked recoiling 9mm. I have passed on opportunities to purchase another because I have been waiting for a 5903 or 5904. I finally landed a nice 5904 and although I haven't shot it yet, I think I'm going to really like the lighter weight and it will be used for range fun.

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USS ZELLARS
DD-777

Any issues with the adjustable sights? I like the ability to adjust the sights versus trying to remember where each gun shoots.

Get one of each...carry the 5903 and take the 5906 to the range!

Randy

I trust my 5903 for carry. Light fast & accurate. 5906 is better suited for heavier loads with regard to recoil, only a small factor, and frame strength. My 5903 did do very well by me in IDPA SSP, which was a pleasant surprise. It was a $280 PD trade in.
Jim

As much I'd like to have the 5903 as a carry gun, I've promised myself to not acquire anymore carry guns. I have more than enough (if that's possible) LOL! I guess if the right trade comes along I would make an exception. LOL! Thanks all for the education.

Why not split the difference and get a 5904:

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-jwk-
US Army '72-'95

Sweet pistol Taroman.

I've been carrying this (compact,alloy) 6906 most all the time for the last 22 years. Not much wear but I don't get into and out of a patrol car either. I don't shoot it much these days, maybe 3X/yr, 100 rds 1/2 SD 1/2 115 gr ball. I guess in 22 years the round count is under 10K but close. I have replaced the recoil spring and the holster a couple times because the safety lever eats through. It had exactly one stovepipe in that time and that was my then 5 y/o son "limp wristing" it. Good juju, good guns. Joe

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Behavior Creates Destiny

I have owned and shot both, with factory ammo and my handloads. No problems with cracked frames or any other issues with either one. The 5903 is easier to carry. Tough choice.

My local PD went to 3rd Gen Smiths in 1990. It was a mid sized Dept with 500ish Officers. The vast majority were issued the 5903s (some 3906s and 4506s were also available). The ammo selected was the Winchester 115gr +P+. One stipulation to going with Smith was if they would warranty the high pressure ammo. Smith apparently agreed.

I never heard of any frame cracks. The guns were retired and replaced after 10 years, but many Officers bought theirs when given the chance.