Model 439

[RainDodger]

Hi guys. A question about a 439 if anyone can assist! I just acquired a fairly nice Model 439 that appears to be complete and functional. Factory grips, decent finish, and the action feels tighter than I would have expected. It goes with my Model 39 quite nicely. The serial number places it in the range of '81-'86, but I'm wondering if anyone can pinpoint it a little closer - it's A787079. One thing of interest I found - it's apparent to me that someone bead blasted the outside of the barrel completely. It’s pretty evident, and all the bluing is gone. Completely. The lugs are still very sharp though, and lock-up is tight. The bore is clean and bright. I can't find any rust anywhere on the gun itself, so I'm wondering why someone would have blown off the bluing. Can anyone help pinpoint the mfg date a little closer? Thanks all!

 

[stansdds]

My Model 439 has what appears to be a matte finish stainless steel barrel. Mine is fairly early production, it has the round, 39-2 style trigger guard.

 

[cougar015]

My M439 s/n A 787161 is close to yours and shipped June 1984. I'm curious as to your question on the barrel as the barrels are not blued from the factory.

 

[RainDodger]

Ah! Thank you both! I was assuming (obviously incorrectly) that the 439 barrel would be the same as in my 39 - blued. You've cleared that up for me. It's a relief, as I though Bubba may have been up to his usual. Cougar015, that's a very nice 439 you have there. My new acquisition has some holster wear and a previous owner wore a ring, which dinged up the front strap a bit, but not badly. Thanks again, both of you.

 

[cougar015]

Thanks RainDodger and glad to help. The Model 39 barrels weren't blued either so if yours is, someone blued it.

 

[stansdds]

Model 39, 39-2, and 59 barrels were blued, but the chamber and radial locking lug were were left in the white.

 

[cougar015]

Model 39, 39-2, and 59 barrels were blued, but the chamber and radial locking lug were were left in the white.

Thanks for the correction and you are right. Not sure what I was thinking as I know better! LOL

 

[RainDodger]

Whew, yeah, thought I was crazy again... my 39 barrel is just like the above pic. Hey, I shot the newly acquired 439 today for the first time. 60 flawless rounds through it, it hits point of aim nicely and feels great. It's going to be a nice shooter. The single action trigger pull is on the heavy side (5lbs 3oz.), but it breaks cleanly with no creep. (I did remove the mag disconnect, as I do not like them at all.) Thanks again!

 

[Green Frog]

There are those who will disagree, but IMHO, the 9mms of Gen 2 are the best of the lot. When I raided gun cemeteries and put together my “FrankenSmith” I used a 539 frame to build on. That’s probably the last 9mm I’ll ever need.

The Gen 2 guns seem to be picking up some interest among collectors, especially if in nice condition. On caution, though. If you have the original Gen2 ambi safety, the right side is held in place by a screw. Keep that screw tightened securely and check it often, lest it back out and the screw and safety lever disappear into the weeds. Wanna guess how I know this?

Froggie

 

[Sevens]

There are those who will disagree, but IMHO, the 9mms of Gen 2 are the best of the lot.

You rang? Hard disagree. I own five 2nd Gens currently (down from 7 if I recall correctly…) and while I certainly like them, it’s a simple and uncontested determination for me that in just about any way that matters, the 2nd Gens are the least best of all the 1-2-3rd Gens ever made.

I still like them but in my opinion, the race is not close.

 

[cougar015]

I can't take sides as I love all the 1st and 2nd gen auto's but can't comment on the 3rd gen as I don't own any. If I had to pick one it would be the M639

 

[Tiger 11]

Interesting discussion. I have a 639 which is a bit heavy for my smaller hand. How much lighter is a 439?

 

[stansdds]

Interesting discussion. I have a 639 which is a bit heavy for my smaller hand. How much lighter is a 439?

The aluminum receiver shaves off about 7 ounces.