Looking at a 39-2 but know nothing - help?

[bedbugbilly]

I'm looking at possibly buying a S & W 39-2 9mm semi but have no experience with them. Currently I have a Ruger SR9 and I like the 9mm but would just like a single stack magazine pistol for target practice - possibly CCW once in a while. I like the looks of the 39-2 that I'm looking at but honestly, know nothing about S & W semi-autos. From what I've seen, it's pretty much a 1911 clone? i.e. - has a hammer, thumb safety, slide lock and magazine release pretty much in the same locations. I know this is the S & W forum and it will be "slanted" but could some of you that have one tell me what you think of them? I know it has an 8 shot magazine. How does the pistol peform for you? Criticisms or comments on plusses and minuses? Any problems with them that I should look out for? Do you carry it CCW? Thanks for any input you can give. Also, what should the price range be on one that is in excellent shape with the box and papers? Thanks.

 

[10ring]

Well, my first suggestion would be a search here, as you will turn up a lot of information that way.

You might also want to do a google search on the web. The Model 39 has been around awhile a lot has been written.

It is not a 1911 clone. It is a double-action on the first shot and single action on follow up shots.

It was the first successful American-made DA/SA pistol. If anything, its development was based on the favorable impression made on U.S. Military by the P38 in WWII. Yes it has trigger, hammer, mag release and safety lever/hammer decock lever in similar positions as the 1911, but so do most guns of this type.

It is a well-regarded 9mm pistol and the first widely used by police agencies. The 39-2 is generally considered reliable and "combat-accurate." Many view it as the most ergonomic pistol ever made. A lot of effort was put into how it felt in the hand. From its introduction in the 50's it has gone through many variations and model changes and was produced in those variations until very recently. In a smaller form factor, its most recent form would be the 3913. I carried a related model, the 3953 for many years on the job and often still do.

It would take a couple hours to cover it in sufficient detail. They are often sold for $450-$500 in the kind of condition you describe, but can be found for more like $400.00 if you are lucky or look long enough.

 

[joken1]

I did some trading the other day and ended up owning a 39-2. I only got it because I thought it would be easier to sell than the rifle I traded for it. I own a few nice pistols and let me tell you that this 39 is becoming a favotite. I shot at a beer can at 45' and hit it six of eight shots off hand. I thought my BHP was my favorite 9mm, but this 39 feels and shoots right. Ken

 

[PuertoRican]

I've had 2 Model 39-2. Carried the first one for many years while traveling the flea market circuit. Lost it in a home burglary. Bought the 2nd one a couple years later. It also was my main carry piece for many years. They are light. Easy to carry concealed. Pack a decent amount of fire power. And dead accurate. Go for it. You won't be disappointed.

 

[ab4ka]

I had a 39-2 and it was absolutely the best feeling gun in my hand I've ever shot. I kick myself constantly for letting it go. I plan to have another one someday.