You’ll find the Smith & Wesson Model 559 offered in both steel and alloy frame configurations, chambered in 9mm Parabellum with a 4-inch barrel. This second-generation semi-automatic pistol features a 14-round double-stack magazine and reliable double-action/single-action trigger system. With an unloaded weight of 39 ounces in the steel version, it’s proven itself in law enforcement applications. Current market values range from $377 to $1,231, with well-maintained examples commanding higher prices.
Key Takeaways
- The Smith & Wesson Model 559 is a semi-automatic 9mm pistol available in both steel and alloy frame configurations.
- It features a 4-inch carbon steel barrel, 14-round double-stack magazine capacity, and weighs 39 ounces unloaded.
- The pistol’s current average used market value is $594.70, with recent sales ranging from $377 to $1,231.
- Regular maintenance and proper cleaning ensure reliable performance, making it suitable for law enforcement and military applications.
- Similar alternatives include the Model 669 (stainless steel), Model 439 (all-steel), and comparable designs from Sig Sauer and Beretta.
Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 559 emerged as a semi-automatic pistol offered in both steel and alloy frame configurations. You’ll find the model designation “559” inscribed directly on the frame, serving as a key identifier.
While the standard steel frame version was common, the alloy variant provided a lighter alternative. Material composition testing helps authenticate the frame type, particularly important when evaluating collectible specimens.
Price Range
Based on recent market data, you’ll find Model 559 pistols commanding an average used price of $594.70, with actual sales ranging from $377.01 to $1,231.00. For a gun with a decent reputation, private party values have remained stable over the past 12 months.
| Price Category | Low End | High End |
|---|---|---|
| Private Party | $594.70 | $594.70 |
| Recent Sales | $377.01 | $1,231.00 |
| Trade-In | N/A | N/A |
| New | N/A | N/A |
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Model 559’s steel frame construction delivers robust durability while maintaining operational reliability. You’ll find this semi-automatic pistol balances technical precision with practical functionality in its design. The Model 559’s specifications reflect S&W’s commitment to law enforcement and civilian requirements during its production run.
| Specification | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 39 oz | Unloaded |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches | Carbon steel |
| Material | Steel frame | Blued finish |
| Chambering | 9mm Parabellum | NATO standard |
| Capacity | 14 rounds | Double-stack magazine |
Weight
At 31 ounces unloaded, Smith & Wesson’s Model 559 maintains a moderate weight profile thanks to its lightweight alloy frame construction.
This semi-automatic pistol’s 4-inch barrel contributes to its balanced design while keeping mass centralized. You’ll find slight weight variations across different generations of the Model 559, and your final carry weight will depend on your choice of magazine, ammunition, and optional accessories.
Barrel Length
Standard across most production runs, the Smith & Wesson Model 559 features a 4-inch barrel configuration that became a defining characteristic of this pistol platform.
You’ll find this length on most civilian Hand Ejectors, though limited variants were produced with 3-inch and 4.5-inch barrels. When evaluating a Model 559, it’s essential to verify the barrel length, as this affects both value and performance specifications.
Material Made Out Of
Made primarily from carbon steel, Smith & Wesson constructed the Model 559’s frame and slide using traditional manufacturing processes during its 1980-1988 production run.
You’ll find the barrel and internal components also crafted from carbon steel, while the grips alternated between nylon and wood materials. S&W experimented going back and forth between grip designs before settling on the checkered nylon version in later production years.
Chambered In
The Smith & Wesson Model 559 comes chambered in 9mm Parabellum (9x19mm), featuring a 4-inch barrel in its semi-automatic design. During its production run from 1980 to 1988, this double-action pistol maintained consistent chambering specifications throughout its manufacturing timeline.
The 9mm Parabellum cartridge paired effectively with the pistol’s steel frame construction, delivering reliable performance for both civilian and law enforcement applications.
Capacity
Primary specifications of the Smith & Wesson Model 559 include its 15-round magazine capacity housed within a 7.5-inch overall frame. You’ll find this 9mm pistol efficiently designed, weighing just 27 ounces unloaded.
The magazine’s 15-round capacity strikes an effective balance between size and firepower. For extended operations, you can carry a spare magazine that’ll thread seamlessly into the 4-inch barreled platform.
Trigger Pull
Operating with dual trigger modes, the Smith & Wesson Model 559’s trigger pull ranges from 5-7 pounds in double-action and drops to 4-5 pounds in single-action mode. You’ll find a decent DA trigger that maintains consistency throughout its travel, while the single-action breaks cleanly.
Individual units may exhibit slight variations due to manufacturing tolerances. Regular maintenance ensures these trigger specifications remain optimal.
Safety?
Safety features on the Model 559 include both a trigger safety mechanism and magazine disconnect safety, providing dual layers of protection against accidental discharge.
This Wesson Semi-Auto incorporates these standard safety elements into its steel frame design. The magazine disconnect prevents firing when the magazine is removed, while the trigger safety ensures the pistol won’t fire unless you properly engage the trigger.
Action
The Smith & Wesson Model 559 features a double-action/single-action trigger system built into its all-steel frame construction. Unlike S&W’s traditional wheel guns, this semi-automatic pistol operates with a slide-mounted design.
The double-action first pull requires more pressure, while subsequent single-action shots are lighter and crisper. The action is housed within the steel frame, ensuring durability and consistent operation.
Optic Ready?
Unlike modern pistols designed for optic mounting, the Model 559 wasn’t manufactured with provisions for red dot sights or other optical accessories. The standard iron sight configuration reflects its classic design era, before the industry has rethought handgun optic integration.
Adding an optic would require custom gunsmithing to thread and tap the slide, which could compromise the magazine well and slide integrity.
Review
The Model 559’s reliability stems from its rugged aluminum-alloy frame and carbon steel slide, though you’ll notice the double-action trigger pull exceeds 12 pounds. You’ll find excellent durability in the 559’s stainless steel barrel and precision-machined internal components, manufactured from 1981 to 1988 as part of S&W’s second-generation semi-automatic pistol line.
The weapon’s primary drawbacks include its heavy trigger pull, somewhat dated sights by modern standards, and limited aftermarket support, but it maintains a reputation for consistent function with various ammunition types.
Pros
Based on market data spanning several years, Smith & Wesson’s Model 559 maintains strong resale value with consistent demand among collectors and enthusiasts. When you’re buying this model, you’ll appreciate its value retention, with used prices holding steady around $594.70 over recent years.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Used Price | $594.70 |
| 80% Condition Value | $386.55 |
| Lowest Recent Sale | $377.01 |
| Highest Recent Sale | $1,231.00 |
| 12-Month Value Trend | Stable |
This wide price range indicates significant investment potential, particularly for well-maintained specimens.
Cons
While many collectors prize the Model 559, significant material composition inconsistencies pose challenges for potential buyers. You’ll need to verify frame materials through magnet testing or manufacturer contact to avoid getting screwed on price. Manufacturing variations between steel and alloy frames can impact value considerably.
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Value fluctuation |
| Verification | Time-consuming |
| Dealer Pricing | Inconsistent |
| Identification | Expertise needed |
| Authentication | Magnet testing |
These manufacturing discrepancies make it difficult to secure a good price without thorough research and inspection.
Reliability
Despite manufacturing variations between production runs, Smith & Wesson’s Model 559 consistently proves itself as a reliable service pistol across decades of use. You’ll find the firearm’s core components – the trigger mechanism and magazine release – operate dependably under various conditions.
Testing data confirms its trustworthy performance, while the durable construction ensures minimal malfunctions with proper maintenance, making it a proven choice for law enforcement and military applications.
Similar Models
Several closely related Smith & Wesson pistols share design elements with the Model 559. The Model 669 features a stainless steel construction with a 4-inch barrel, while the Model 439 offers a similar all-steel build with a slightly shorter 3.8-inch barrel.
The predecessor Model 59 maintains the 4-inch barrel length, and the Model 539 introduces a serrated stainless slide. For a more compact option, the Model 459 reduces to a 3.5-inch barrel.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Many prominent firearms manufacturers produced comparable pistols to the Smith & Wesson Model 559 during its era. You’ll find similar design elements in the all-steel Sig Sauer P220 and CZ 75, both featuring DA/SA trigger systems.
The Beretta 92FS offered an alloy frame alternative, while the polymer-framed Glock 17 and Ruger SR9 presented more modern construction approaches, with the Ruger utilizing a striker-fired mechanism.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Smith & Wesson Model 559 ensures reliable operation and extends service life.
You’ll need to disassemble the pistol following proper procedures to perform thorough cleaning. Apply appropriate solvents to remove fouling, and use quality lubricants on metal surfaces and moving parts.
Routinely inspect magazines, springs, and internal components for wear. Proper storage prevents corrosion and maintains the pistol’s functionality.
History
The Smith & Wesson Model 559 entered production in 1983 as a cost-effective variant of the company’s successful Model 59 series. You’ll find this all-steel service pistol featured a carbon steel frame and slide to spare expenses compared to its stainless steel predecessors.
Available in 9mm and .40 S&W, the Model 559 served law enforcement and civilian markets until the early 2000s, when the Model 6904 replaced it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
You’ll find that Smith & Wesson revolvers consistently maintain strong pistol resale values, particularly models from significant manufacturing dates. They’ve evolved through multiple design iterations since 1857, with many vintage models appreciating substantially.
Your S&W revolver’s value retention depends on factors like production year, mechanical condition, and historical significance. The technical craftsmanship and brand reputation have helped establish them as reliable investments in the firearms market.
How Much Is a Smith and Wesson 9 9mm Worth?
Precise pricing patterns for your 9mm Smith & Wesson depend on the specific model you’re referencing. Currently, you’ll find varying values based on your pistol’s condition and features.
The current market value for a Model 559 specifically averages around $595 for private sales, while one in 80% condition is worth about $387. You’ll notice prices can range from $525 to $1,231, depending on your firearm’s condition and unique characteristics.
When Was the Smith & Wesson Model 500 Made?
You’ll find that Smith & Wesson released the Model 500 revolver in February 2003. It’s worth noting that this massive revolver was specifically designed to be the most powerful production handgun in the world at its release date.
The Model 500 was developed to harness the power of the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, which was created simultaneously. You can trace its evolution from initial concept through various barrel length options introduced post-launch.
What Is the Rarest Smith and Wesson Gun?
Like a diamond in the rough, the Smith & Wesson Model 27 in .357 Magnum stands as the rarest collector’s item in S&W’s history. You’ll find it was first introduced in 1935 as the “Registered Magnum,” with each gun being custom-made to order.
The hand-fitted parts, pinned barrel, and recessed chambers showcase the pinnacle of S&W’s craftsmanship. You won’t see many around today, as production numbers were extremely limited, making it highly sought-after among collectors.
Conclusion
From 1981-1988, you’ll find the Model 559’s evolution building on S&W’s Second Generation aluminum-framed automatics. Like a well-oiled machine in a precision dance, this 9mm pistol’s double-action system and 14-round magazine capacity represented significant advances over the Model 39. The carbon steel slide, precision-machined frame, and combat-style sights established standards that you’ll see echoed in today’s modern defensive handguns.
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