S and W 39 history questions

[Green Frog]

I’m reading through this thread again and noticed the reference to a decocker as being a “racetrack”. This term is a new one on me! Of course, the original from my inherited 39-2 is long gone, so type slowly, I don’t have anything to compare with.

Froggie

 

[toddimusnimski]

The baseplates are just marked S&W. I've seen double stack 59 series baseplates marked with 9mm too, but don't recall seeing single stacks like that. Would be great to come across.
The "racetrack" refers to the stepped gripping surface on the decocking lever. The newer versions have the steps that wrap around the end of the lever, looking like a racetrack. I know the experts here can identify the variations of them as the model progressed through the years

 

[gmborkovic]

Frog, not my term. Came from Engine49guy. On the de-cocker lever there are ridges. Some later ones the ridges are on the top, front and bottom of the lever go all the way around.

 

[rincar]

I know of one trooper who on a call had a person pull a gun on him. Due to the fact there were children close by. He drew his S&W Then he hit the suspect in the head with the S&W. So hard that the slide was knocked off of the frame I think breaking the Frame rails. He was without a pistol while the ISP had another Trooper drive him one down from Springfield. Those were the Good Old Days.

 

[rincar]

As a disclaimer I was not A Trooper but a Local Police Officer. We worked very closely with the ISP. We answered calls together and backed each other up on call for service Traffic Stops and Accidents.

 

[Ameshawki]

ISP Left Hand 39 Holster

[/ATTACH]

Left hand ISP 39 holster

 

[SG-688]

Left hand ISP 39 holster

Another reason for the holster being made strong side for lefties:

The then new ISP light weight uniform jacket was just below waist length with a slot on the left for the holster. With the left side holster for left-handed troopers, the state didn't have to buy uniform jackets with the slot on the right side.
.

 

[Green Frog]

Thanks Todd & Mike. This thread has turned into a real treasure trove of those little hard to find tidbits that are being covered over in the sands of time. We “old farts” won’t be around (or remembering things) but so much longer.

Froggie

 

[gmborkovic]

Frog, I take offense to your term "old...".
I prefer "vintage...".