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Selected Handgun Detail

Smith & Wesson
Model 659
Smith & Wesson Pistol 659 9 mm Variant-3
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:No Data
Length:7.44-in Height:No Data
Barrel:4-in Weight:39.5-oz
Variant 3 of 3
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (124 grain bullet)142600
  • Recoil Factor (124 grain bullet)3.5 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity15 rounds
  • ConcealabilityFair
  • Defense Factor84%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:9 mm
Action:recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:slide mounted ambi safety/decocker
Magazine:14-round
Frame:stainless steel
Grip:black nylon
Sights:fixed front and rear
Notes:fixed sights, squared trigger guard
Manufacturer
Smith & Wesson
More Info
About the Gun

Second generation double-stack semiautomatic pistol based on the first generation Model 59. Stainless steel construction. Early variant had a rounded trigger guard and safety/decocking lever on left side only. Later variant had a squared trigger guard and ambidextrous safety/decocking levers. Fixed and adjustable sight variants.

Production

Production of this firearm began in 1985 and continued until 1988.

Market value
Last updated: 2/16/2026

MSRP is not widely available as it’s discontinued. Used market value in 95% condition is approximately $450-$600.

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

The Smith & Wesson Model 659 traces its origins to 1980, when it succeeded the 1971-introduced Model 59 by adopting full stainless steel construction to enhance corrosion resistance and durability over the earlier alloy-framed design. Production spanned until 1988, yielding approximately 128,000 units targeted at law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters requiring a dependable high-capacity 9mm option amid growing demand for double-stack pistols. Its design incorporated a double/single-action trigger system with a 14-round magazine, a locked-breech operating mechanism derived from the Walther P38 influence, and ergonomic refinements such as the evolving trigger guard profiles and ambidextrous decocking levers on later examples, alongside interchangeable fixed or adjustable sights to accommodate varied accuracy needs. In performance terms, the Model 659 demonstrated consistent reliability across thousands of rounds in testing, with manageable recoil due to its weight distribution, though isolated reports noted decocker pivot wear in high-use early variants and a propensity for frame battering under sustained fire. Within the contemporary handgun market, it holds relevance as a transitional piece bridging metal-framed classics and lighter polymer frames, valued for parts commonality with third-generation successors despite its heft limiting concealed carry applications.

User Rating
2 User Ratings
2 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
Beefy steel pistol that'll go forever
By gregdr01 on 18 Apr 2022
Construction of all.steel, the 659 isn't light, but as a duty weapon it's not supposed to be. 2nd generation SW pistols in excellent condition are going for well over $500, and a NOS/NIB 659 will rightfully command a premium that'll be well rewarded in the years to come. The examples with Novak adjustable sights are most desirable, and superb shooters.

5 of 5 Stars
S&W 659
By MikeB-21 on 29 May 2020
Owned the gun a number of years ago, target acquisition with the OEM sights took some getting used to but were acceptable and became acclimated to them. Great primary carry gun with the right holster (hip or shoulder). Not an overall fan of 9mm BUT you can’t argue with 14 rounds stacked, one chambered on Safe, two backup 14 round mags for a total of 43 rounds!! If you find one in good condition, don’t worry & buy it. MikeB.