Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2014
Also known as: L-Frame .44 Magnum
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum is a medium-large revolver built on Smith & Wesson's L-frame, introduced in 2014. Chambered in .44 Magnum with a 5-round cylinder. Constructed with a stainless steel frame and cylinder, this revolver offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability for years of reliable service. The 2.8-inch barrel provides a good balance between concealability and sight radius for defensive applications. Weighing 972g (34.3 oz) empty, this revolver provides a solid, confidence-inspiring heft that helps absorb recoil without being overly burdensome for extended carry. Smith & Wesson has been producing L-frame revolvers for over four decades, continuously refining the platform with improved metallurgy, ergonomics, and manufacturing techniques while maintaining the fundamental reliability and accuracy that has made their double-action revolvers the benchmark against which all others are measured.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 972 g (34.3 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 1074 g (37.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 198 mm (7.80") |
| Barrel Length | 70 mm (2.76") |
| Height | 149 mm (5.87") |
| Width | 39 mm (1.54") |
| Sight Radius | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Trigger Pull | 51 N (11.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 380 m/s (1247 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1122 J (828 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 476 mm (18.74") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- .44 Magnum · primary — also known as .44 Rem Mag, 10.9x33mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block Safety, Cylinder Latch
- Features: L Frame, Adjustable Rear Sight, Ramp Front Sight, Five Shot Cylinder, Two Piece Barrel, Round Butt, Synthetic Grips
Service history
Operators
- Outdoorsmen and Hunters
Production
Production years: 2014-present
First L-frame chambered in .44 Magnum
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Model 69 represents Smith & Wesson's effort to create a more packable .44 Magnum by chambering their L-frame for the cartridge. Previous .44 Magnum revolvers were built on the larger, heavier N-frame (Models 29 and 629). The L-frame was originally developed in 1980 as a strengthened platform for sustained .357 Magnum use, sitting between the K-frame and N-frame in size. By using the L-frame for the .44 Magnum, Smith & Wesson created a revolver that weighs approximately 34.3 ounces (2.75-inch barrel) compared to over 40 ounces for comparable N-frame models. The tradeoff is reduced capacity (5 rounds vs 6) and slightly increased felt recoil due to the lighter weight. The two-piece barrel design ensures durability with sustained magnum loads. The loaded weight estimate includes five .44 Magnum cartridges at approximately 20.4g each. Base specifications are for the 2.75-inch barrel model.
Background
The Model 69 broke new ground by chambering the powerful .44 Magnum cartridge in Smith & Wesson's medium L-frame. It offers outdoorsmen and hunters a more portable .44 Magnum option for backcountry carry and defense against dangerous game.