The Smith & Wesson Model 639: A Journey Through Time
The air crackles with anticipation. You’re standing in a gun shop, the scent of gun oil and wood lingering in the air. A familiar name catches your eye, etched on the stainless steel slide of a pistol – Smith & Wesson. But this isn’t just any Smith & Wesson; this is a classic, a firearm that speaks of a bygone era of craftsmanship and reliability: the Smith & Wesson Model 639. This article delves into the heart of this legendary handgun, exploring its history, design, performance, and enduring appeal.
The echoes of innovation
The echoes of innovation reverberate through the history of firearms, and in the landscape of semi-automatic pistols, Smith & Wesson has long held a prominent position. The company has consistently adapted and evolved, creating a legacy that resonates with enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The Model 639 occupies a special place within this lineage, as it represents a significant evolution in the third generation of Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistols. These models were a departure, showcasing advanced engineering and a commitment to refined design, and the Model 639 perfectly embodies this spirit.
The Genesis of a Firearm
The genesis of the Smith & Wesson Model 639 is intrinsically linked to the broader development of the company’s third-generation semi-automatic line. The company sought to build upon the successes of their earlier designs, incorporating improvements in reliability, ergonomics, and safety. The late nineteen-seventies and early nineteen-eighties marked a pivotal period, with Smith & Wesson meticulously refining their approach to handgun manufacturing. The Model 639 emerged as a product of this careful evolution, born from a desire to provide shooters with a blend of functionality and enduring quality.
The 9mm Era
The Smith & Wesson Model 639 was introduced during a time when the 9mm Luger cartridge was gaining considerable popularity. The design aimed to capture this trend, offering a reliable and potent handgun chambered for this favored round. Production commenced, marking the Model 639’s entrance into the competitive market of personal protection and law enforcement firearms. This particular model was designed as a direct descendant of the Model 39, showcasing a series of improvements.
The Marketplace
The market saw the Model 639 during years when the Smith & Wesson name was highly respected. The Model 639 was marketed alongside a variety of other Smith & Wesson models, including the Model 659, with the primary difference being in its manufacturing materials. While the 659 was constructed with a carbon steel frame and slide, the Model 639 brought the benefit of a stainless steel construction, giving it an advantage for some users. This stainless steel build was a significant element, offering inherent corrosion resistance and imparting a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
What Makes It Tick: Features and Design
A closer examination of the Smith & Wesson Model 639 reveals a handgun crafted with a blend of functionality and elegance. The stainless steel construction is readily apparent, defining the pistol’s character and imparting a sense of durability. The frame and slide are crafted from this robust material, providing the handgun with exceptional resistance to wear and environmental factors. The brushed stainless finish often found on the Model 639 gives it an understated sophistication, a departure from the blued or parkerized finishes common on other handguns.
Trigger Mechanism
The 639 is designed with a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system. In the double-action mode, the trigger pull is longer and heavier, as it both cocks and releases the hammer. Once the first shot is fired, the subsequent shots will be in the lighter single-action mode, so long as the hammer is manually cocked for each following round. This feature is often credited with providing a safety advantage, as the heavier first trigger pull may help prevent accidental discharge.
A Standard Magazine
The Model 639 typically houses 9mm Luger rounds in a standard magazine. The magazine capacity can vary slightly depending on the specific generation and model, though 8-round or 9-round magazines were common. The pistol’s ergonomics were well-considered for the period. The rounded design, often coupled with a comfortable grip, contributed to its shootability.
Safety Measures
The model also incorporates several safety features. The manual safety is usually mounted on the slide and can be engaged to block the firing pin, preventing the pistol from firing. The model also incorporates a firing pin block safety, which further enhances security against unintentional discharges.
The Classic Three-Dot System
The sights on the Model 639 are usually the classic three-dot system. These simple, yet effective, sights allowed for quick target acquisition in various lighting conditions. The standard configuration offers an easily viewed sight picture, enhancing the shooter’s ability to rapidly engage targets. The design focused on ensuring both accuracy and ease of use.
The Grip
The Model 639 features a grip that is generally comfortable for most shooters. The size and contours of the grip promote a firm hold, helping the shooter maintain control during recoil. The original grips are commonly made of a hard plastic.
Putting It to the Test: Performance and Handling
The Model 639 has earned a reputation for solid performance and consistent reliability. The stainless steel construction contributes significantly to this aspect. The model is often praised for its straightforwardness. The Model 639 is widely considered a reliable handgun, capable of withstanding regular use and various environmental conditions.
The Trigger Pull
The trigger pull in double-action mode is moderately heavy, providing a measure of safety. Once switched to single-action, the trigger pull becomes lighter. The Model 639 provides shooters with control and accuracy.
Recoil
The recoil management is good. The solid construction and the weight of the stainless steel help absorb the recoil from the 9mm rounds. The grip promotes a firm hold. This control facilitates rapid follow-up shots.
The Field Stripping Process
The Model 639 has a simple field stripping process. The design enables quick disassembly and reassembly for maintenance. This feature contributes to the gun’s ease of use.
Variations and Specifics
While the core design of the Smith & Wesson Model 639 remained relatively consistent, there have been variations in grip panels, finishes, and some minor internal components over its production run. Special editions and specific models are sometimes seen by collectors, which elevates their value.
Value in the Marketplace: Collectibility and Price
The Smith & Wesson Model 639 continues to hold a strong position in the market, attracting both collectors and those seeking a dependable firearm. The market value of the Model 639 can fluctuate based on a number of variables, primarily its condition, the presence of the original box and papers, and any historical significance. A well-maintained Model 639 typically fetches prices which reflect its status as a classic semi-automatic pistol.
Popularity
The enduring popularity of the Model 639 is due to its reliability, stainless steel construction, and its historical significance. These factors make it a prized asset.
Value
The balance of the firearm’s value is often determined by its overall condition. Factors such as wear, blemishes, and functionality, and any modifications play a part in determining its market value. The presence of original boxes, papers, and accessories also positively impacts a pistol’s market value.
Enduring Desire
The Smith & Wesson Model 639 has become a desirable handgun for many. Its appeal is rooted in its historical place, the superior stainless steel construction, and reliable performance. These handguns are often sought after by enthusiasts.
The Advantages and Disadvantages
The Smith & Wesson Model 639 boasts a number of benefits. Its robust stainless steel construction allows it to be used. The firearm’s classic design is also highly appreciated by many. The Model 639 carries an additional measure of historical significance.
Shortcomings
The Model 639, like all handguns, has some minor shortcomings. The DA/SA trigger system can be challenging for some shooters. The weight of the stainless steel construction, while adding to its durability, can be a drawback for those who prefer lighter firearms. The aftermarket support for the Model 639 is limited compared to more modern designs.
A Classic Endures
The Smith & Wesson Model 639 stands as a testament to the quality and durability that Smith & Wesson is famous for. The model’s stainless steel construction and consistent reliability have solidified its place in firearm history. For collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a reliable and well-built handgun, the Model 639 represents an excellent choice. Its historical importance, robust design, and consistent performance make the Smith & Wesson Model 639 a classic that endures.
