Intro
Uncover the truth about the iconic Smith & Wesson 459 pistol. Discover its history, design, and performance features that made it a favorite among law enforcement and civilians. Learn about its reliability, accuracy, and durability, as well as its impact on the firearms industry. Get the inside scoop on this legendary handgun and why it remains a popular choice today.
The Smith & Wesson 459 is a semi-automatic pistol that has been a popular choice among firearms enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals for decades. Here are five key facts about this iconic handgun.
Firstly, the Smith & Wesson 459 was introduced in 1980 as a response to the growing demand for high-capacity, semi-automatic pistols. The gun was designed to compete with other popular handguns of the time, such as the Beretta 92 and the Glock 17. The 459 was chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and featured a 14-round magazine, making it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and potent sidearm.
Design and Features
The Smith & Wesson 459 was built on the company's earlier Model 59 design, which was introduced in the 1970s. The 459 featured a stainless steel slide and barrel, as well as a aluminum alloy frame. The gun was known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among law enforcement professionals. The 459 also featured a manual safety and a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger.
Technical Specifications
Here are some key technical specifications for the Smith & Wesson 459:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Barrel Length: 4 inches
- Overall Length: 7.5 inches
- Height: 5.25 inches
- Width: 1.25 inches
- Weight: 34 ounces ( unloaded)
- Magazine Capacity: 14 rounds
- Sights: Fixed front sight, adjustable rear sight
- Trigger: Double-action/single-action (DA/SA)
Law Enforcement Use
The Smith & Wesson 459 was widely adopted by law enforcement agencies in the 1980s and 1990s. The gun's reliability, accuracy, and high magazine capacity made it an attractive option for police officers. The 459 was also popular among federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the DEA.
Civilian Sales
The Smith & Wesson 459 was also sold on the civilian market, where it gained a loyal following among firearms enthusiasts. The gun's popularity was fueled by its reputation for reliability and accuracy, as well as its high magazine capacity. However, the 459 was eventually discontinued in the early 2000s, as Smith & Wesson shifted its focus to newer models.
Legacy
The Smith & Wesson 459 may no longer be in production, but its legacy lives on. The gun's influence can be seen in many modern semi-automatic pistols, including Smith & Wesson's own M&P line. The 459's reputation for reliability and accuracy has also made it a popular choice among collectors and firearms enthusiasts.
Collectibility
The Smith & Wesson 459 is highly sought after by collectors, particularly those who specialize in Smith & Wesson pistols. The gun's rarity and historical significance have driven up demand, making it a valuable addition to any firearms collection.
Smith & Wesson 459 Image Gallery
What is the Smith & Wesson 459?
+The Smith & Wesson 459 is a semi-automatic pistol that was introduced in 1980.
What caliber is the Smith & Wesson 459?
+The Smith & Wesson 459 is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum.
Is the Smith & Wesson 459 still in production?
+No, the Smith & Wesson 459 is no longer in production.
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at the Smith & Wesson 459. Whether you're a firearms enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates the history of firearms, the 459 is an iconic pistol that is sure to fascinate. Share your thoughts on the Smith & Wesson 459 in the comments below, and don't forget to follow us for more articles on firearms and firearms-related topics!