Decision time, needing a little help

[yaggieke]

About a 3 weeks ago I purchased my first S&W 5906 and have been so impressed with it I purchased a second 5906 today. I do carry the 5906 and really don't have any issues with it being a little larger than what I would like. I'm trying several holsters and hopefully the ones I've got on order will be what I'm looking for.

Ok, heres where I could use some help. When ordering my second 5906 today the sales rep told me they just got in some 6906s and described them to me. After doing some research I kind of think I would like one (6906), but because I don't know anyone that has one or can actually put my hand on one I'm struggling with if I would see any real benefit of having a 6906 to carry instead of the 5906. From what I have found online it seems that it is only like 1/2 inch shorter barrel and a little smaller grip, and a little lighter.

So I am wondering if anyone has both and could give me some pointers on what benefits I would really get out of buying the 6906.

 

[jsbethel]

The smaller dimensions and the weight difference (11 or so ounces) due to the alloy frame of the 6906 make it the better choice for concealed carry IMO. There is only difference in capacity of three rounds between the 5906 and 6906. I'm not that hung up on magazine capacity anyway - the choice for me would be between a 3906 and a 3913.

 

[ab4ka]

if you like the 5906, you'd love a 6906. It makes an awesome carry gun, and you can use the 5906 mags with it. I've got a couple for mine with the grip extensions on them and they are fantastic.

 

[Forsmithers]

Yaggieke, I've got one of each (and a few other Smith's) and I would say that buying a second 5906 when you have the option to buy a 6906 should be a no brainer. The 6906 is the little brother of the 5906. The grip and slide are a little bit shorter making it easier to conceal and like jsbethel said the aluminum alloy frame of the 6906 makes it lighter to carry than the all stainles big brother! Buy the 6906 and you'll have matched pair.

My 6906 was a duty pistol for a while and I carried it with three 15 shot magazines from the 5906. There is a grip adapter that you can purchase and put on a 15 shot magazine that extends the length of the grip of the 6906 and allows you to carry or shoot the 15 round mags. I carried it concealed with the 12 shot mags and even modified a base pad from a 5906 to give the compact magazine less of a print when concealed. Check out these links for pictures:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-wesson-semi-auto-pistols/126988-6906-magazine-question.html
http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-...es-magazines-fitting-6900-series-pistols.html

 

[yaggieke]

Forsmithers: From just looking at the pictures it is really hard to determine how much easier the 6906 would be to carry verses the 5906. Since you have both I appreciate your opinion. I've been looking for something smaller but really like these 5906s.

My second 5906 that I just purchased will be for my other daughter to have when something happens to me. You know, kids, we just can't buy one of anything otherwise it causes problems, lol.

I will probably purchase the 6906, and use the 5906 factory mags with it. I hope it shoots and feels as good as the 5906 does, I really like that model.

I am new to shooting and hand-guns. Just in the past couple of months I've taken a real interest in it and so far really enjoy it. I'll probably pick up a 22LR semi as I can see if I do any amount of shooting it could get expensive.

Are there any issues I should consider with the 6906 with the alloy frame?

Thanks again.

 

[18DAI]

If you like the 5906, you will LOVE the 6906.

While a fine duty pistol and excellent winter conceal carry pistol, the 5906 is a little big for year round carry - especially in hot humid weather.

The 6906 has all the positive attributes of the 5906 in an easily concealed, light weight package.

i still kick myself for trading my 6906. Good luck! Regards 18DAI.

 

[yustinus1973]

I love my 6906, have the grip ext., so i can use 15 round mags, on mine to.

 

[yaggieke]

After browsing the forum and what you guys have said about the 6906 I think I'll be ordering one next week. My second 5906 should be in my hands Tuesday of this next week, and as soon as I see the condition I'll most likely order the 6906 Wednesday.

What about price, a good condition 6906 for $329.99? Or should I shop around more?

 

[jchambliss]

A nice 6906 for $329 would be a great buy...usually hard to find nice ones for less than $425 now days. I too have had both the 5906 / 5903 and the 6906 and have used them both for on / off duty carry. Having both models is like having the best of both worlds. You should love the 6906.

 

[Badkarma 1]

I have a second gen 669 (the forerunner to the 6906) and a 5946 (DAO version of your 5906) and gravitate to the smaller pistol in the warm months here in the midwest.
Also I've found the smaller pistol is MORE accurate than the bigger one!
I haven't tried the grip adapters yet, I just run the 12 rounder in the gun and when it's dry reload with a 15 rounder.
And if you can get a 6906 at that price RUN don't walk to your gun shop! That's a heck of a deal!! Dale

 

[yaggieke]

Well my decision just got really simple, lol.

My second 5906 arrived yesterday from CDNN and all I can say is WOW. The gun was like mint, no marks or scratches. I called the sales person I've been working with and he told me the 6906s were in even better condition.

So, I ordered the 6906 with 2 extra 12 round mags. Should be here either friday or saturday. I'm like a kid waiting for xmas morning to open the new toy.

Seriously, if you have not checked out CDNN Sports it would certainly be worth your while to check out their listings. I ordered both the 6906 and an ISSC 22. Prices are pretty good.