Posted: 1/11/2005 9:07:38 PM EDT
| what should I know about this gun, ups & downs. |
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Combatvet, Here are a few thoughts, Upsides; 1) Being an all steel handgun it is as sturdy as anyone could wan't, being stainless it is more forgiving on the corrosion issues. 2) The two S&W 3rd Gens I have are very accurate, I don't imagine it would be different with any other 3rd Gens. 3) S&W has a lifetime repair policy, and in my experience, excellent customer service. I purchased two trade ins that had some "modifications" performed I believe, by the distributor, and S&W fixed it no questions asked and back in my hands in 2.5 weeks. 4) Magazines and other accessories should be plentiful and affordable. Downsides; 1) Being an all stainless steel fullsize handgun it will be fairly heavy. 2) Being the traditional Double/Single Action it has the long trigger pull on the initial pull. If you have any experience with revolvers it should be an easy transition. I shoot just fine with my all of my double actions. 3) Slide mounted safety/decocker. Some don't like it there. It doesn't bother me, although I have thought about getting it modified to decock only. 4) Mag safety. Some don't like it at all, I have yet to lose a bit of sleep over it. Don't take this list as gospel, I am not an expert on anything. It is the best I can do in 3 minutes. But after looking down upon them in the past (without ever shooting one) I am now a happy owner of them. HTH and the best of luck. |
| I am a S&W armorer for my department. We have the 5906 & 6906 as duty firearms. Some are about 15 years old and are going strong. Although the extractors in many are wearing down, they are easily replaced. The weight issue has not been a concern for me. Wearing it 10 hours a day on the hip for 20 years (we started with the 659 series), you kind of get used to it. Parts will be around for awhile. Don't spend more than $350. |
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I carried a 5906 for 3 years before we switched over to Glocks. I bought my old duty gun and still have it today. I love it. It's accurate and reliable. What more can you ask for? I also have a 5904 that I bought about 13 years ago. It's similar to the 5906 with the exception of the blued finish and aluminum frame. It's significantly lighter than the '06 so it's easier to carry. Love 'em both. |
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Excellent gun. Steel frame makes it very heavy, the grip feels wider than others for some reason. S&W lifetime repair policy is an excellent value add. The gun shoots well, but is more picky about ammo types than the Sig 226. The gun is fairly accurate, but the P226 is more accurate and has better ergonomics. I'd say the P226 is a more reliable choice, but the 5906 holds it's own. It's harder to take apart than other guns. Also, it has magazine disconnect that does not allow you to shoot without a mag in the gun. That may help or hinder you. |
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