Smith & Wesson Model 59

Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1971

Weight (empty)840 g (29.6 oz)
Overall Length192 mm (7.56")
Barrel Length102 mm (4.02")
Magazine Capacity14 rounds
Action TypeShort Recoil
Firing MechanismDouble Action Single Action
Muzzle Velocity360 m/s (1181 fps)
Muzzle Energy481 J (355 ft·lbf)
Effective Range50 m (55 yd)
Frame MaterialAluminum

Primary Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum

The Smith & Wesson Model 59 is a double-action/single-action 9x19mm semi-automatic pistol introduced in 1971. Developed from the earlier single-stack Model 39, it was the first US-designed and US-built high-capacity 9mm pistol, holding 14 rounds in a staggered double-stack magazine — earning it a place among the original 'Wonder Nines' that defined the 1970s and 1980s law enforcement market.

Country of Origin: United States

Designer: Smith & Wesson (developed from Joseph Norman's Model 39)