Smith & Wesson Model 59
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1971
Also known as: S&W 59
Overview
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.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 840 g (29.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 192 mm (7.56") |
| Barrel Length | 102 mm (4.02") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 14 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 360 m/s (1181 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 481 J (355 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 100 m (109 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Magazine Disconnect, Decocker
- Features: Double Stack Magazine, Adjustable Rear Sight, Reverse Operating Slide Safety, Straight Backstrap
Variants
- S&W Model 459 — Improved Sights
- S&W Model 559 — Carbon Steel Frame
- S&W Model 659 — Stainless Steel
Service history
Operators
- United States Navy (evaluation)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation · as Model 459 (~800 issued)
- Salt Lake City Police Department
Conflicts
- Vietnam War (Navy SEAL evaluation) (1965-1972)
Production
Production years: 1971-1982
Replaced by the 459 (improved version) in 1981-82; total Model 59 production was substantial but exact figures are not published.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Smith & Wesson (developed from Joseph Norman's Model 39)
Discontinued: 1982
Notes
The Model 59 used an aluminum alloy frame, a blued carbon-steel slide, a magazine disconnect safety, and a slide-mounted decocking safety. It was replaced in 1982 by the second-generation 459/559/659 series.
Background
The Model 59 traces its lineage to a Vietnam-era US Navy request for a silenced 9mm pistol with a high-capacity magazine for SEAL teams; though the stainless-steel suppressor-equipped 'Hush Puppy' prototypes saw limited combat use, the civilian Model 59 that emerged from the program kicked off the high-capacity 9mm arms race.