The Smith & Wesson Model 659 is a stainless steel 9mm semi-automatic pistol introduced in 1982, featuring a 4-inch barrel and 14-round magazine capacity. You’ll find it has a double-action/single-action trigger system, ambidextrous safety controls, and a magazine disconnect safety. The all-steel construction delivers 364 ft-lbs of muzzle energy while providing excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Used examples range from $500-800, depending on condition. Understanding its maintenance requirements and historical significance reveals why it transformed law enforcement armament.
Key Takeaways
- The Smith & Wesson Model 659 is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol with stainless steel construction and 14-round magazine capacity.
- Released in 1982, it features a double-action/single-action trigger system with decocker and magazine disconnect safety features.
- The pistol has a 4-inch barrel, weighs 34 ounces unloaded, and comes with adjustable sights.
- Used models typically range from $500-800, with pristine examples reaching $1,000 depending on condition and included accessories.
- Known for exceptional durability and reliability, though the front sight design can affect rapid target acquisition.
Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 659 represents a robust 9mm semi-automatic pistol characterized by its stainless steel construction and 4-inch barrel length. You’ll find a single action/double action trigger system complemented by a magazine disconnect and decocker safety features.
The pistol’s sight system combines a serrated ramp front sight with an adjustable rear sight featuring protective ears and dual white dots. It’s delivered in a factory box with cleaning supplies and documentation.
Price Range
Used Model 659 pistols typically command prices between $500-800 on today’s market, with pristine examples fetching up to $1,000. You’ll find the price varies based on condition and included accessories.
| Condition | Average Worth |
|---|---|
| Poor | $400-500 |
| Fair | $500-600 |
| Good | $600-800 |
| Excellent | $800-1000 |
Factory original magazines, period-correct holsters, and original box documentation can add $50-100 to the pistol’s market value.
Specifications
The Model 659’s stainless steel construction combines durability with a 4-inch barrel length for optimal balance and accuracy. You’ll find this 9mm semi-automatic pistol equipped with a precision-engineered single/double action trigger mechanism and a full-capacity 14-round magazine. The handgun’s mechanical specifications align with professional-grade requirements while maintaining tactical versatility.
| Specification | Measurement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 34 oz | Unloaded |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches | Carbon steel |
| Magazine Capacity | 14 rounds | 9mm Parabellum |
Weight
Weighing in at 39.5 ounces, Smith & Wesson’s Model 659 derives its substantial mass from an all-stainless steel construction. You’ll find this weight typical for a full-size 9mm semi-automatic pistol, providing a stable firing platform for enhanced accuracy.
While heavier than polymer alternatives, the Model 659’s weight distribution doesn’t preclude concealed carry options when paired with an appropriate holster system.
Barrel Length
Sporting a 4-inch barrel, the Model 659’s compact profile strikes an optimal balance between portability and ballistic performance.
You’ll find the barrel length contributes to the pistol’s overall length of 7.44 inches, making it well-suited for concealed carry applications. The 4-inch configuration delivers sufficient velocity for defensive use while maintaining the maneuverability you’d expect from a compact service pistol.
Material Made Out Of
Manufactured from premium-grade stainless steel, the Model 659’s frame and slide exhibit exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. You’ll find this semi-automatic, magazine-fed pistol retains 97% of its original factory finish, showing only minimal wear.
The stainless steel construction extends to its integrated sight system, featuring a serrated ramp front sight and adjustable square-notch rear sight with protective ears.
Chambered In
The Smith & Wesson Model 659 chambers the proven 9mm Luger cartridge, delivering 364 ft-lbs of muzzle energy through its 124-grain projectiles at 1,150 ft/sec.
You’ll find this semi-automatic pistol’s 9mm Parabellum chambering offers an impressive power factor of 142600 with a 3.5 ft-lb recoil factor.
The high magazine capacity of 14-15 rounds provides sustained firepower for defensive and tactical applications.
Capacity
With its double-stack magazine configuration, the Model 659 delivers impressive ammunition capacity, holding 14-15 rounds of 9mm Luger in the standard magazine. This high-capacity feature set it apart from other semi-automatic pistols of its era, making it particularly attractive to law enforcement agencies transitioning from revolvers.
The magazine capacity, combined with its double/single action system, established the Model 659 as a formidable duty weapon.
Trigger Pull
Operating through a double-action/single-action mechanism, the Model 659’s trigger system offers shooters two distinct pull weights. In this DA/SA semi-auto pistol, you’ll experience a 10-12 pound double-action pull for the first shot, transitioning to a lighter 5-7 pound single-action pull for subsequent shots.
The well-designed trigger guard accommodates gloved operation, while the trigger reach complements various grip sizes.
Safety?
Modern safety features distinguish the Model 659’s comprehensive protection system. You’ll find an ambidextrous safety lever that accommodates both right and left-handed shooters.
The semi-automatic pistol incorporates a frame-mounted decocker that safely lowers the hammer without firing. For additional protection, there’s a magazine disconnect safety that prevents discharge when you’ve removed the magazine, ensuring maximum operational security.
Action
The Smith & Wesson Model 659’s semi-automatic action delivers consistent cycling through its single/double action trigger mechanism. You’ll find the action functions reliably with each round fired, automatically ejecting spent casings and loading fresh rounds from the detachable magazine.
The pistol’s design incorporates a magazine disconnect safety and decocker lever, allowing you to safely lower the hammer without compromising the action’s functionality.
Optic Ready?
Unlike contemporary pistols designed for optic mounting, Smith & Wesson’s Model 659 comes exclusively with fixed iron sights and offers no provisions for mounting optical accessories.
The stainless steel slide of the Model 659 features a serrated ramp front sight paired with a non-adjustable rear sight. You’ll find no factory-designed mounting points or optic plates, as this Wesson design predates modern red dot integration.
Review
The Model 659’s stainless steel frame and slide deliver exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, while its single/double-action trigger mechanism provides reliable first-shot capability. You’ll find the adjustable sights and 4-inch barrel contribute to impressive accuracy, though the trigger pull in double-action mode may require additional practice for optimal performance.
The pistol’s 14-round magazine capacity and proven mechanical reliability make it a dependable defensive option, despite its slightly dated ergonomics compared to modern polymer-frame designs.
Pros
Boasting an all-stainless steel construction, Smith & Wesson’s Model 659 delivers exceptional durability and reliability in a well-engineered service pistol platform. You’ll appreciate the high-quality build and versatile features in this 9mm handgun.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Sights | Precise target acquisition |
| 14-Round Capacity | Enhanced tactical capability |
| Single/Double Action | Improved operator control |
The robust stainless steel frame resists corrosion while providing excellent recoil management. The decocker safety and adjustable sights ensure both security and accuracy in real-world applications.
Cons
While the Model 659 offers notable strengths, several mechanical drawbacks warrant consideration before purchase. The safety decocker mechanism requires frequent maintenance, while the front sight configuration can impede rapid target acquisition. You’ll find the factory finish susceptible to holster wear, and locating specimens in excellent condition proves challenging.
| Issue | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Decocker Malfunction | Compromised Safety | Regular Service |
| Sight Alignment | Slower Target Acquisition | Training Adaptation |
| Finish Wear | Aesthetic Degradation | Professional Refinish |
| Sight Adjustment | Accuracy Variance | Gunsmith Calibration |
Reliability
Known for its stalwart construction, Smith & Wesson’s Model 659 delivers consistent performance across varied operational conditions. You’ll find this semi-auto pistol’s double/single action system runs reliably with minimal malfunctions.
The robust steel frame and carefully engineered feed mechanism ensure smooth operation, while the decocker safety adds confidence to your carry setup. Proper maintenance keeps your Wesson Model 659 running flawlessly.
Similar Models
Several Smith & Wesson pistols share the 659’s core design features, each offering distinct variations. The Model 649 retains the 9mm chambering and decocker, while the Model 639 operates as a double-action-only variant with a 14-round capacity.
The all-steel Model 459 preceded them with a 12-round magazine. Later developments include the Model 5906 with ambidextrous controls and the compact Model 6906 for concealed carry.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
During the height of service pistol development in the 1980s, numerous manufacturers produced 9mm semi-automatic pistols that rivaled the Model 659’s specifications.
The Beretta 92FS and Sig Sauer P226 offered comparable performance for military applications, while the polymer-framed Glock 17 emerged as a modern alternative.
The CZ 75 matched the 659’s ergonomic design, and later, the Ruger SR9 continued this legacy of similar operational features.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the Smith & Wesson Model 659 requires systematic attention to its critical components.
You’ll need to disassemble the pistol regularly to clean the breech face, barrel, and moving parts with quality solvent. Lubricate all mechanisms, including the trigger, safety, and decocker, to ensure reliable function.
Store your Model 659 in a controlled environment to prevent moisture-induced corrosion.
History
The Smith & Wesson Model 659 made its debut in 1982 as a significant evolution in the manufacturer’s 9mm semi-automatic pistol lineup. You’ll find this stainless steel semiautomatic pistol featured a double/single action trigger mechanism that proved instrumental in law enforcement’s transition from .38 Special revolvers.
The Model 659’s balanced weight and stable firing characteristics contributed to its widespread adoption before newer designs eventually replaced it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a SD9 Smith & Wesson Cost?
You’ll find the SD9’s retail outlet prices ranging from $300-450 new, with online marketplace listings showing used models between $200-350. This striker-fired 9mm offers solid ballistic performance analysis metrics at its price point.
While not primarily designed for competitive shooting applications, it’s among the more affordable concealed carry options. The MSRP sits at $399, but you can typically locate new units at authorized dealers for $350-400.
What Caliber Is a S&W 659?
Like a well-oiled machine, your S&W 659 is chambered in 9mm Luger (9x19mm Parabellum). You’ll appreciate its smooth trigger pull characteristics and reliable performance with this popular caliber.
The 9mm chambering allows for a 14-round magazine capacity specification, while various barrel length variants are available. The 9mm Luger cartridge’s ballistic performance delivers a 124-grain bullet at 1,150 ft/sec, and you’ll find numerous customization options for enhanced shooting experience.
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
You’ll find that S&W revolvers consistently demonstrate strong resale market appreciation, particularly in well-maintained preowned model prices. Their brand reputation impact significantly affects value retention, with many pieces holding 70-80% of original cost.
Model production numbers play a crucial role, as limited runs command premium prices. When you’re considering collector’s item potential, classic wheelguns like the 686 and Model 29 series are especially desirable, maintaining robust valuations in the secondary market.
How Much Is a Smith and Wesson 9 9mm Worth?
You’ll find that a Smith & Wesson 9mm’s worth varies significantly in today’s used market value. Depending on the specific model, condition, and included aftermarket accessories, you’re looking at $400-$1200.
The pistol’s long-term durability makes it a solid investment, with strong resale opportunities. Secondary market trends show consistent demand, especially for popular variants like the M&P series.
Pay attention to the barrel’s rifling condition and check for frame wear before making a purchase decision.
Conclusion
You’ll find the S&W Model 659’s legacy particularly noteworthy, as it served with numerous law enforcement agencies through the 1980s. The pistol’s double-stack 14-round 9mm magazine capacity was revolutionary for its time, doubling the standard capacity of contemporary service pistols. When maintaining your 659, focus on the carbon buildup around the breech face and extractor – these stainless steel components require specific attention to prevent feeding malfunctions.
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