S&W 3rd gen goodness

Good explanation, Sevens. I would add that, to my eyes at least, the best looking of all the "Generations" is the original, the Model 39.
 
I have had a Model 52-2 for many decades now and have used it to compete in lots of Bullseye matches. In terms of its looks, it takes a practiced eye to see much difference between it and the Model 39. However, if forced to choose, well, you make a good point...:)
 
I've had a number of 2nd and 3rd Gen. S&Ws, and the 52-2 I had was much prettier than all of the rest -- gorgeous, dark, deep-blued finish. None of the others came close (if blued).

The 52-2 is the only one I miss -- but since I don't hand load, finding ammo that would run in it was a challenge.
 
There are seemingly two slightly different groups of 3rd Gens showing up at both Cabela's and also at Gander Mountain. Both are 5946's, which is a steel frame, double-stack DAO 9mm. The more expensive guns are marked "Houlton, Maine" and appear to be new old stock, probably a group of pistols held back for an unfulfilled or unneeded LE contract. The other group are much lower in price and appear to be formerly issued duty guns and will show the exterior wear of a former duty pistol.

Myself, I don't particularly care for the DAO xx46 pistols, I much prefer the traditional DA/SA guns.

Okay, to be entirely honest... I love the single action guns. ;)
 
I've owned and enjoyed examples of S&W autos from all 3 generations, and wish I'd kept many of them. In any case, just took a photo of the only S&W autos I have left, all 3rd. Gen.

They are Performance Center DPA 5906s with 5" and 4" barrels, a 3913, a Performance Center CQB, and a 1026. I carried the CQB every working day for a year and a half or so, and it shows it. All have displayed the usual 3rd. Gen. boring, and much appreciated, reliability.
 

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