Smith and Wesson Model 39-2 9mm 4″ DA/SA Semi-Automatic Pistol 1975-76
SOLD FOR: $1,004.00
LSB#: LSB251201DB039
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Model 39-2
Serial Number: A286972
Year of Manufacture: 1975-76
Caliber: .9mm Luger
Action Type: Double Action/Single Action, Semi-Automatic with Magazine Safety Disconnect and Removable Magazines
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “SMITH & WESSON” and with the four line Marcas Registradas. The left side of the frame is marked “A286972 / MODEL 39-2”. The top of the exposed portion of the barrel is marked “9MM”. The right side of the frame is marked with an S&W monogram logo. The right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “P”.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The 1/8″ front sight has a serrated ramp and is fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a target sight with a square notch, adjustable for windage and elevation, and is dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut, each with a S&W medallion at the top. There are scratches and compression marks throughout. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips, cracks or areas of finish loss. The grips rate a Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. Bore rating 10/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are just a few small handling marks throughout. The slide rails, barrel, and guide rod shows blueing loss due to operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear.
Overall, this handgun rates an Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is short and crisp with a very short reset. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included are three 8-round magazines.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 39-2 is a first generation Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol that was introduced in 1970 as an improved version of the original Model 39, which was first released in 1955. Curiously, there was no “-1”. It holds the distinction of being one of the first American-made double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistols, designed primarily for military and law enforcement use but also gaining popularity among civilian shooters.
The Model 39-2 was the leading edge of the shift from revolvers to semi-automatic pistols within American law enforcement, marking a key transition period in firearms history. Chambered in 9mm, the Model 39-2 features a single-stack magazine that holds eight rounds, providing a slim profile that makes it comfortable to carry, conceal and handle. The pistol has an aluminum alloy frame, which contributes to its relatively lightweight design, weighing in at about 26 ounces unloaded. This makes it lighter than many other steel-framed semi-autos of its time, offering a good balance between durability and portability. The blued steel slide adds to its durability and aesthetic appeal, making it a visually striking firearm as well as a functional one. The double-action/single-action operation of the Model 39-2 allows the shooter to fire the first round with a long, deliberate double-action pull, with subsequent shots being fired in single-action mode. This DA/SA configuration was considered an innovation at the time and provided a safer method of carry compared to traditional single-action pistols. The pistol also features a manual safety/decocker on the slide, allowing the hammer to be safely lowered on a live round, enhancing the pistol’s safety. This was a key selling point for military and law enforcement agencies looking for a reliable and safe sidearm.
The “Hush Puppy” was a 1967 limited purchase of the Model 39 by the US Navy, so-named because its fitting for a suppressor and slide-lock (to allow a single shot mode to eliminate slide noise) made it ideal for silencing enemy guard dogs. It was called a Mark 22 Mod 0 by the Navy.
One of the improvements in the Model 39-2 over the original Model 39 was the redesign of the extractor, which significantly enhanced the pistol’s reliability. Early models of the Model 39 were known to have occasional extraction issues, but the Model 39-2 addressed this problem, leading to improved performance and greater trust among users. This change helped the Model 39-2 gain a strong reputation for reliability, which contributed to its popularity in both professional and civilian markets.
This particular Model 39-2 is in Excellent shape. It comes with 3 magazines and would make a nice EDC or might truly appeal to a collector of S&W firearms.
Please see our photos of this very collectable sidearm. -C.B.
