From the Vault: Devel Smith & Wesson Model 59 Conversion

Published on September 2, 2022
Duration: 4:03

This video details the custom modifications made to a Smith & Wesson Model 59 by Devel, transforming it into a compact 'hide-out' or backup gun. Key alterations include a chopped grip, a shortened barrel, lightning cuts for weight reduction, a modified trigger guard with a hook and relief cut, a bobbed hammer, and a finger extension for improved handling. These modifications were aimed at professionals, particularly law enforcement, seeking a smaller, more concealable firearm with full power.

Quick Summary

The Devel conversion of the Smith & Wesson Model 59 transformed it into a compact backup gun with a chopped grip, 3.5-inch barrel, lightning cuts, a bobbed hammer, and a modified trigger guard. These custom features aimed to make the firearm as small as possible for professionals while retaining full power.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction with Brownells
  2. 00:11Location: Rock Island Auction Company
  3. 00:25Devel Smith & Wesson Model 59 Conversion
  4. 00:30Wide Body Model 59 Modifications
  5. 00:37Barrel Shortening
  6. 00:40Lightning Cuts for Weight Reduction
  7. 00:49Trigger Guard Modifications
  8. 01:02Purpose: Hide-out/Backup Gun
  9. 01:24Bobbed Hammer Feature
  10. 01:30Streamlined Controls
  11. 01:36Finger Extension for Grip
  12. 01:56Target Market: Professionals
  13. 02:12Influence on Smith & Wesson 459
  14. 02:38Comparison to Modern Compacts
  15. 02:55Aesthetic Appeal
  16. 03:14Quality and Boutique Nature
  17. 03:20Market Evolution
  18. 03:29Thanks to Rock Island Auction Company

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key modifications made to the Smith & Wesson Model 59 by Devel?

The Devel conversion of the Smith & Wesson Model 59 features a chopped grip, a barrel shortened to approximately 3.5 inches, and lightning cuts on the slide for weight reduction. It also includes a modified trigger guard with a hook and relief cut, a bobbed hammer, and a magazine finger extension.

What was the intended purpose of the Devel Smith & Wesson Model 59 conversion?

The Devel conversion was designed as a specialized 'hide-out' or backup gun, primarily for professionals like law enforcement officers. The goal was to create a firearm that was as small as possible at the time while still chambered for a full-power cartridge.

How does the Devel Model 59 conversion compare in size to modern compact pistols?

Despite its original intent as a compact backup gun, the Devel converted Model 59 appears significantly larger when compared to modern subcompact pistols such as the Glock 26, Glock 365, or Hellcat.

Did these custom conversions influence Smith & Wesson's own product line?

Yes, Smith & Wesson engineers took notice of these custom conversions. This influence led to the development of their own compact models, like the 459, which became popular backup guns in the 1980s and took over the law enforcement market.

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