S&W39 vs 439

[Ia.redneck]

Been shooting handguns lots of years, but not too familiar with the older S&W autos. I understand that a 39 is first gen. and 439 is 2nd gen, but what is actually different about the 439?
Any opinions on which is generally more accurate, reliable or durable? Just gonna be used for a range/plinking gun.
Thanks in advance.

 

[Babalooie]

They both use removable barrel bushings.

The safety on the second generation guns is "better."

A third generation slide aka 3914 will fit on a 439.

The rear sights are different and neither has a removable front sight.

 

[grif684]

The 439 has a firing pin safety, early versions had the round 39 style trigger guard, later versions were square, also, in addition to the previous mention of the fixed rear sight difference, an adjustable rear was offered on the 439.