Advantages of TSW over Standard

[novalty]

I have been looking for a 45 for just plinking/home defense. Are the TSW models really that much greater than the standard models? I have seen both posted, and besides the rail, I can't tell any other differences. TIA

 

[RogueJSK]

It's my understanding that the TSW versions were made to be somewhat higher quality and a bit more refined than their predecessors. Similar to the many of the differences between the standard and Police/Wingmaster Remington shotguns.

Of course, that may just be S&W's marketing tactics talking.

There are some noticable differences besides the accessory rail, though. The frame rails are different (more robust, with tighter tolerances), and they feature a delayed-unlocking firing system, both of which supposedly gives them a slight edge in accuracy and reliability.

 

[CTPete]

In addition the things already mentioned, they also have more agressive checkering of the front strap and a beefier frame.

 

[KurtC]

The slides and frames are also hand matched for tighter tolerances, with assembly number etched on the inside. The rails are also full length, in the box style, to include the dust cover.

 

[novalty]

So with the choice of both a standard and TSW model in very similiar condition, the TSW would seem to be a much better choice overall.

 

[RogueJSK]

I wouldn't necessarily say *much* better. If all else is the same (condition, price, etc.) then sure, go with the TSW. But I wouldn't hesitate to snag a standard 3rd Gen at a lower price or in better condition. Both will still be supremely reliable and as accurate as your shooting skills allow.

 

[KurtC]

So with the choice of both a standard and TSW model in very similiar condition, the TSW would seem to be a much better choice overall.

The TSW represents a better "design" overall, but pistols need to be evaulated on an individual basis. I've got pre-TSW pistols with an incredibly tight lock-up, and I've handled some TSW trade-ins with mismatched slides and a sloppy fit.

 

[novalty]

Well, the 2 I am looking at the standard is basically new, the TSW has an unknown round count but in good condition. Both have box, papers, and mags, but the standard model is about $25 more. The things I notice different on the TSW are the decocker only and bobbed hammer. Whereas, the standard is almost identical to my 5906.

 

[3rd Gen Neal]

I wouldn't necessarily say *much* better. If all else is the same (condition, price, etc.) then sure, go with the TSW. But I wouldn't hesitate to snag a standard 3rd Gen at a lower price or in better condition. Both will still be supremely reliable and as accurate as your shooting skills allow.

+1 on that. My 4566 non tsw has never had any issues and it's more accurate than it's owner. And I'm not overly crazy about the rail, looks like a scab-on. (Because it is)

 

[novalty]

I'm up in the air about the rail, originally thought it would be a nice addition if I wanted to add a flashlight for home-defense, but that is why I have my 5906 with Crimson Trace lasergrips. The big differences in the 2 I am looking at, is the "decocker only" and the bobbed hammer on the TSW. Just not very familiar with either one of those features, am used to the decocker/safety on my 5906 and having a spurred hammer. I can see where the bobbed hammer would be nice for concealed carry, but I have tried carrying my 5906, and think that a large carry piece like these full-frame S&W is not for me.

 

[brushy bill]

My sole TSW (pre-rail) was much smoother and tighter than similar models I've examined. However, it had the MIM hammer, trigger, etc... which for me is less than exciting. Believe you have to go case by case.

 

[Dogmann]

Doesn't the TSW guns come with a barrel bushing for accuracy?

 

[CALREB]

Standard 4506's or 4566/63 tsw models dont come with a spring loaded decocker or a bobbed hammer.Some melonite 4566's had spring loaded dc's,and 4513tsw had bobbed hammers. So Im not sure what model your dealing with unless it is some type of special order,only the PC guns came with a briley type bushing unless, someone sent the gun in for some special work, of course with SW there is always the possibility of a special run of something,so maybe thats it,a spring loaded D/C is easily changed out for a regular version, good luck, /Bob

 

[sniper47]

I'm up in the air about the rail, originally thought it would be a nice addition if I wanted to add a flashlight for home-defense, but that is why I have my 5906 with Crimson Trace lasergrips. The big differences in the 2 I am looking at, is the "decocker only" and the bobbed hammer on the TSW. Just not very familiar with either one of those features, am used to the decocker/safety on my 5906 and having a spurred hammer. I can see where the bobbed hammer would be nice for concealed carry, but I have tried carrying my 5906, and think that a large carry piece like these full-frame S&W is not for me.

I am carrying my 4003TSW right now. It is a light as my Steyr M40 and almost as light as my G19.

 

[Babalooie]

My only complaint is that a TSW gun with a rail will not fit in a non-rail gun holster.

 

[MTS Cop]

Isn't there a difference in how the hammer is cocked in DA too?

 

[epj]

If looking at a TSW, check the electro pencil marking on the frame, slide, and barrel to be sure they still match. This "fitting" is one of the major advantages of the TSW.
Disregard all this. I checked again and while there are some apparent assembly #'s on the inside of the slide, they aren't what I thought they were.

 

[18DAI]

Since I own....or have owned numerous examples of both TSW 45's and non.....or pre TSW's I'll share my experiences.

The build on the TSW's - with the full length frame rails - is an improvement over the standard models IMO.

That said - I prefer the non TSW S&W 45's for carry/range guns.

First - I despise that idiotic rail. I've had it removed off every TSW pistol I own. Even if one subscribes to the theory that hanging lights off handguns is a good idea - I do not - there are very few lights made that go on that S&W TSW rail.

Second - I do not find the 45 TSW's to be noticeably more accurate than the non TSW 45's. My most accurate S&W 45 is my 4516-3, closely followed by my PC Shorty 45, and my NON TSW 4566 with laser etched markings. All three being more inherently accurate than I am capable of wringing out of them.

ALL my TSW 45's shot low. Yes, you can order lower front sights to correct this - what a hassle. My non TSW 45's do not shoot low with 230 grain 45. They hit POA strait out of the box.

Third - I do not like the tacky "Tactical" banner laser etched on the slides. Looks ridiculous and cheap, to me.

So I suggest you try a pre TSW 4566, and then a 4566TSW and see if the differences make any difference TO YOU. Good luck! Regards 18DAI.

 

[justsumstuff]

There are some noticable differences besides the accessory rail, though. The frame rails are different (more robust, with tighter tolerances), and they feature a delayed-unlocking firing system, both of which supposedly gives them a slight edge in accuracy and reliability.

What is a "delayed-unlocking firing system?"

 

[Squibb]

Of the two you have to choose from, I'd forget the $25 difference and get the one that's talking to you. I have both in 9mm and I can't tell a difference in accuracy, or my lack of it.

As for general accuracy, it's hard to fault any 3G S&W. With a pistol rest my 3913 LS and 4516-1 are just amazing; almost same hole kind of amazing. But, I can't do that on my own. Too old, too twitchy and a bad eye.

As for rail vs. non-rail, I can't feel the difference. As for judging aesthetics, my taste buds were shoot off in the war. But I carry a pistol that says Lady Smith and my tighty whities fit just fine!