Model 69 smith and Wesson

F

FilthyHarry

Moderator
I have pushed the button on a Smith and Wesson Model 69. Just because I like the Model number... Oh, and the cartridge... And the barrel length... And the fact that ammo is always available (in magnum and special)... And the looks... And the price...

Don't give a hang about the built-in lock... I like synth grips... 5 shots of 44 Magnum is OK by me. Huh... I guess I like it.
 
I picked one up on Friday and shot it yesterday. I REALLY like it.

It's going to make a great field gun with heavy 44 Special or light 44 Mag loads.

Fits nicely into one of my old GP100 holsters.

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SaxonPig said:
Is that a new model? I have heard of an M69. Five rounds? Built on an L frame platform?
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Yes - Number previously used for a non-cataloged .38Spl-only M66 variant for the CHP - Yes - Yes. :D
 
THe 696 was quite similar. No?

I want this concept to be successful, but am concerned about long term durability.
 
THe 696 was quite similar. No?
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This model has a thicker forcing cone, so that shouldn't be an issue.

I've no idea how well it would hold up to a steady diet of hot .44 Magnum ammunition, but with light Magnums and/or Specials, it should do OK.
 
Here's one way to look at it...

The K-frame .357 Magnums got a reputation of durability issues (we've discussed a hundred billion times...) and it was enough for S&W to simply STOP making them, but at the same time... they never stopped building a .357 Magnum J-frame and it just makes me wonder a bit if the J-frame magnums never showed the extreme wear because no (normal, rational) human would ever put that much .357 Magnum through a J-frame because it's obnoxious?!

In comparing my own tastes to many folks I've known and shot with, I believe I can handle handgun recoil fairly well, perhaps better than the "average" gun owner. (nobody in these forums is the "average gun owner", btw) But I'll tell you, I don't find .44 Magnum enjoyable in almost any platform and I don't know if I ever will.

And a 5-shot, non-lugged-barrel L-frame, I am certain, will not make the .44 Magnum an easier pill to swallow for anyone who struggles with any manner of recoil.

Thus:
Maybe S&W is counting on the "durability" of these coming from the fact that there's only so many mailboxes you can punch with your hand at 50 MPH out of a car window. :eek::p
 
I'll probably get one of these when I can swing it.
My local dealer has an older 3 inch I'd love to have but he won't budge.
This new model 69 might be a good alternative.
 
Looks like a great revolver. I have a 4" M29 Mountain Gun and enjoy shooting it. The 69 looks even slimmer and more handy for woods carry.
 
I looked at one recently and liked it. Like th OP, I don't give a flying fig about the lock. The grips were some of the most comfortable I've ever held.

I doubt I'd ever fire a round of 44 magnum ammo in it.
 
True dat

CajunBass calls it right... 44 specials will be mostly what I'll fire. "It's a 44 Special... Do you feel lucky, Punk?"

Since I can shoot the eye out of a sparrow at 100 yards, I don't think I'll have to worry about the reduced power. Hahahaha!
 
If they don't sell

Bring out a new gun and just wait for the haters. Sure a lot of people say they like the new M69, but the "lock haters" have to beat their dead horse, the synthetic grip haters fly their flag, the "deadly recoil" haters jump on their horse, the two-piece barrel, the "it'll disintegrate" clan...

Go on and hate. If Y'all keep sales low and they stop production... Mine will be skyrocketing in value.

Thanks!
 
If it doesn't make the Darned California list I'm out of luck
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Right there with ya. I do think S&W will eventually pay the costs to get it on the magic safety "list."

If I had one, I'd consider it a 44 Special. It may see the occasional magnum round, for the novelty of it. But that's it.
 
Combat Magnum

My Father in Law did two turns as a "tunnel rat" in Vietnam. His weapon of choice was a 6-inch, stainless 357 Magnum... Along with his partner's standard rifle issue.

I bet he would have loved this "Combat"... Smaller, lighter and packing a wallop! A great "situation" gun? HELL yeah!
 
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