Selected Handgun Detail

Smith & Wesson
Model 5946
Smith & Wesson Pistol 5946 9 mm Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:No Data
Length:7.625-in Height:No Data
Barrel:4-in Weight:37.5-oz
1 Variant
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (124 grain bullet)142600
  • Recoil Factor (124 grain bullet)3.69 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity16 rounds
  • ConcealabilityFair
  • Defense Factor85%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:9 mm
Action:recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:double-action only (DAO)
Safety:no manual safety
Magazine:15-round
Frame:stainless steel
Grip:curved backstrap wrap-around
Sights:Novak Lo-Mount
Notes:
Manufacturer
Smith & Wesson
More Info
About the Gun

All stainless steel Third Generation 5900 Series pistol similar to the model 5926, but double-action only with no manual safety/decocker and a rounded trigger guard.

Production

Production of this model began in 1990 and continued until 1999. It was part of a series designed for specific markets, with manufacturing primarily occurring during the early to mid-1990s before being discontinued.

Market value
Last updated: 7/10/2025

For this gun, the MSRP is unavailable as it’s discontinued. Used market value in 95% condition is approximately $450-$550 based on 2024-2025 auction trends and pricing guides.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: 9 mm Luger
Alias: 9 mm Parabellum
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:124 grains
MV:1150 ft/sec ME:364 ft-lbs
Analysis

This 9mm double-action pistol offers a solid performance for both duty and personal defense applications. Its accuracy is commendable, delivering consistent groupings at moderate ranges, thanks to a well-designed barrel and sight system. The ergonomics are a strong point, with a grip that accommodates a wide range of hand sizes, ensuring a secure hold during extended use. Reliability is another asset, as it functions smoothly under various conditions with minimal malfunctions when properly maintained. However, maintenance can be somewhat cumbersome due to a complex disassembly process, which may deter less experienced users. Additionally, sourcing replacement parts can be challenging, limiting long-term support. The trigger pull, while smooth, is on the heavier side, potentially affecting precision for some shooters. Felt recoil is moderate, manageable for most, though it may feel pronounced during rapid fire sequences. Overall, it’s a capable choice with notable trade-offs.

User Rating
2 User Ratings
2 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
Great shooting
By Kinglion23 on 01 Mar 2025
love the weight and the way the gun shoots.


4 of 5 Stars
Solid and Reliable
By TommyNYPH on 07 Jul 2021
I've had this pistol for almost 30 years and put thousands of rounds through it. It has been ultra reliable without any malfunctions whatsoever!!!! I used it for law enforcement and this pistol has been involved in serious scuffles, has hit the cement and hit some other things as well. It is a metal pistol so it is heavy and the DAO has an extremely heavy trigger pull. It is still accurate and reliable and it looks great too. If the trigger pull wasn't so heavy I would give it 5 stars.