Model 59-opinions?

[Patches09]

I saw a Model 59 at a recent gun show in pretty good shape for $270. This seemed like a good price, but has anybody had any experience with these (good or bad)? You don't seem to hear much about the Model 59 these days, so I held off on getting it until I got some opinions from you guys. Also, the serial # was in the A555,000 range-would anybody know when that one was made?
Any thoughts and comments are welcome and appreciated!

 

[max]

I like the looks of them, but they feel like a 2x4 in my hand. Also some were not reliable with hps. I really like the 3rd gens much better.

 

[Superflywimpy]

I have had one for 20 years

It was a police trade in,I got it for 200 bucks back then. It will fire every time I pull the trigger. Never had a single stoppage. The finish was well worn when I got it. And after it serving me a a trail gun I decided to have it cerakoted. The 59 I think was the first double stack 9mm made in the US . It has a alloy frame. I still pack it when out in the desert hiking. Your price does not seem too High for a all metal pistol,considering whats out there new for the money. Seems the only way to make a affordable pistol is to go poly frame

 

[Badkarma 1]

The model 59 was the original "wonder nine" as it debuted in 1971, although it saw service as the "X-147" in Vietnam.
They do tend to be picky about some hollow point rounds and +P, +P+ is NOT recommended! Something like the Federal 115 JHP or Winchester Silvertip will do nicely, if they don't feed go with Remington 115gr JHP.
Accuracy tends to vary from 59 to 59, but most will do the job they were designed for.
Plus the fact that you can remove the grips means you can dress it up with some nice wood! Also they will take any and all 59 series mags made.
I'd get one just too say I have "The Original"! Dale

 

[Cyrano]

I just paid $425 for mine. It had the rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation, and there was a red insert in the front sight. I don't feel I bought it too high. I haven't shot it yet; just cleaned it up today.

 

[skeetshooter]

I recently bought one for $500 from a Forum member, as new in the Box.
I also own another and find it to be a very trustworthy firearm. I shoot
Remington 115gr JHP and do not have any problems. It is a "Wonder Nine"
IMHO

 

[cololab]

I'd buy it and I already have one. I think that's a good price.

 

[10 X]

That is a good price and a good gun. I do not recommend +P ammo. They are reliable and have OK accuracy.

 

[Model39]

I own Three Model 59's

I collect Model 39's, but do also like Model 59's. They, like the Model 39 were a first, a double action high capacity 9MM auto pistol made here in the USA. This one is from 1980. The grips were added later.

 

[old bear]

I got an early model in 74-75, it did feel like a 2x4 in my hand. It always functioned well with any assorted ammo I put through it. Somehow it never felt right to me. Now for $275.00 I would give consider buying one, if for no other reason to have a "wounder nine".

 

[65mustang]

I just bought one a couple of weeks ago for $320.They wanted $350 and I had cash in hand. I did find a LNIB 659 for $400 but I don't think I could have gotten a better deal on it and they had a huge line. I think it is great,very accurate. So far a bought a new duty holster off of Ebay for $15 and 2 Mec-Gar Mags from CDNN for $20 each.
I only shot a box through it so far. I would recommend it to anyone who finds the large grip comfortable. I also like the wide trigger on it, it makes the trigger pull seem less to me.

 

[Engine49guy]

Although they do pop up occasionally for $325 to $375 in clean condition many are rough or over $400.

$270 is downright cheap but can you live with the condition.
As someone wiser than me once said "Price is forgotton but Condition is forever"

 

[Jim H]

I bought one at Gander Mountain a few years back for a bit under $300, including tax. It has worked just fine for me.

I have relatively large hands and long fingers, so I like the big, blocky feel.

 

[65mustang]

One more thing I forgot to mention. I think the grip is relatively similar to a Beretta 92. If you find the Beretta to work for you than chances are the 59 will as well. The only difference IMO is the straight backstrap on the 59. I just got done giving mine a thorough cleaning. From the looks of things it was not thoroughly cleaned for many years.

 

[W.E.G.]

The Model 59 in any condition other than excellent is not getting much love from collectors.

That's why the low-ish price.

Ask yourself why you want it.
If you can come up with a good reason, a sub-$300 price is appealing.

I got mine!

 

[ColbyBruce]

There was an optional curved backstrap available for the #59.