New to me - 5903

[pawncop]

I must first acknowledge my bias regarding the 9mm cartridge.

I have carried (and will continue to carry the 45 ACP as my duty sidearm) for years.

I saw, back in the day, how the 9mm did not meet expectations. Now these are my observations only.

I have been reading articles, and have spoken with trauma surgeons I know, including two as tactical medics with a SWAT unit. They advised similar information regarding improvements with the 9mm cartridge and ballistic data.

Sooooooo, I have been looking for a solid addition in that caliber.

I believe I have achieved my quest (for the moment) in the 5903 I located in a pawn shop today.

Very clean, one magazine, serial number indicates 1991 manufacture date.

Looking forward to range time. Don’t know if I will qualify with it but I am excited to have another 3rd generation S&W.

My first (and favorite) is my 4506, a previous duty sidearm.

So I stay a committed 45 guy, but I will always be willing to expand my base of information.

[Redcoat3340]

Good pickup. I really like the Smith old-school "steel." Have 39-2, 639, 459, 5906 and 6906 and I'd be hard-pressed to say which is my favorite. I've been in the market for a 4506 to round out the "collection," but got interrupted by a Shield .380 which I'll pick up next week. So my hunt is on hiatus....unless, of course, I find one!

Enjoy your new purchase.

[stansdds]

I think the 5903 makes for a fine duty weapon. It is the same as the 5906, but the receiver of the 5903 is aluminum alloy instead of stainless steel. The alloy receiver shaves several ounces off of the heft of the pistol and makes it easier to carry for extended periods of time.