So I just picked up a 5904...

[mainegrw]

Happy Holidays All,
I just picked up a Model 5904 today, and I have a question: The SCSW notes that around 100 or so prototypes of the third-gren pistols were produced in the AIP serial prefix range, between 0001 and 0100. Mine falls outside that serial range, however maintains the AIP prefix (AIP10XX), so I'm sure it's not a prototype, however, I am curious where this would put it in the production cycle, i.e. very early production for distribution, or maybe factory demo unit? How many units were potentially produced in that range? I had always thought that the third-gen pistols all started in the T-- serial range, that's why this one threw me off...

No matter what though, it still looks nice, the finish has held up amazingly, albeit a little dirty. No holster wear at all, so I doubt its been carried. I put a few rounds downrange this morning with it too, and she's a great shooter for sure! Picture attached, she looks a bit shiny only because I gave her a quick post range wipe-down with a silicone cloth.

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[Sevens]

The pilot, transitional and AIP-guns are definitely out of my area of expertise but I believe it's quite safe to say that if your pistol is wearing the AIP serial prefix, you have an AIP gun and it's definitely early in the run. I would think 1988 production.

I've read where these pistols had more hands-on attention than later production guns but I've not had the pleasure to handle or inspect one.

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

I hope that it is a nice gun for you and your heirs.

 

[mainegrw]

I hope that it is a nice gun for you and your heirs.

Thanks! Yeah, this one's a keeper I think... It is the only 5904 I've ever actually hand my hands on, ive never seen another example out there, at least not in the last 10 years, and it's in great shape to boot!

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[Poohgyrr]

That has the squared trigger guard, the 5904's I've seen all had round trigger guards. FWIW

 

[BAM-BAM]

Early 3rd Gen guns had the square trigger guard and if fixed sights they weren't the Novak's.

Nice find....... my only blue/black, full size, alloy frame 9mms are the 915s.

 

[ladder13]

Cherrys Fine Guns has one with (2)15 rd mags for $450 in case anyone is interested. Square trigger guard, rated 98%. It's been sitting there for months.
I've bought a few guns from them in the distant past, they're good people.

 

[ispcapt]

The 5904 was our issued sidearm for several years until the dept went with Glock in 1999. It was a very reliable and accurate model. I had been issued a 6904 and this 5904. My usual carry tho was the 6904. When we went to Glock we could buy back our issued duty guns. This 5904 only has the slightest bit of holster wear and a bit of a mark on the right side of the grip. I still shoot it for my LEOSA qualification.

 

[4T5GUY]

Early 3rd Gen guns had the square trigger guard and if fixed sights they weren't the Novak's.

I like my 5904, but it has a square trigger guard with a Novak rear sight. I was specifically looking for one like that to match my square trigger guard/Novak rear sight 3904 that I've had for a long time. The 5904 is excellent, came with nothing but was under $300.00 locally.

Were these leftover lowers mated to newer top ends?

Jim