The Third Generation Smith of the Future

Published on March 13, 2026
Duration: 35:41

This video details the process of modernizing a Smith & Wesson third-generation pistol, specifically a 6906, by a custom gunsmithing shop, Mark III Firearms. The modifications include adding a custom compensator, an optic cut for red dot sights, a light rail, a trigger job, and deleting the magazine disconnect. The goal is to bring these classic DA/SA pistols into the modern era with enhanced features and aesthetics, demonstrating their potential as highly capable firearms.

Quick Summary

Mark III Firearms modernized a Smith & Wesson 6906 by adding a custom compensator, optic cut for red dots, light rail, trigger job, and deleting the magazine disconnect. This showcases the potential of third-gen Smiths as reliable and customizable platforms for modern use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: The Desire for Modernized Third Gen Smiths
  2. 00:59Ideal Modern Smith Features
  3. 01:45The Modernized Third Gen Smith Revealed
  4. 03:01Call to Action: Smith & Wesson Needs to Bring Them Back
  5. 04:03Upcoming DA/SA Handgun Showdown
  6. 05:05Mark III Firearms: The Customizers
  7. 05:40Rare Breed Triggers FRT 15 L3
  8. 07:20Crash Course: First, Second, and Third Gen Smiths
  9. 09:06Third Gen Smith Details (Late 80s - 2010)
  10. 10:55Desired Modern Features for Third Gen Smiths
  11. 12:05Tour of the Custom 6906
  12. 12:46What Mark III Firearms Does
  13. 13:53Custom Compensator and Barrel Work
  14. 14:45Optic Cut for RMRcc and Slide Profile
  15. 15:33Hogue Walnut Grips and In-House Rail
  16. 15:53Trigger Job and Magazine Safety Deletion
  17. 16:50Cerakote and Custom Front Strap Faceting
  18. 19:04Threaded Barrel and Suppressor Compatibility
  19. 20:21Aesthetics and Public Interest
  20. 20:56Renewed Interest in Classic Pistols
  21. 21:21Potential for 696 ASP-Style Builds
  22. 22:11National Armory: Source for Hard-to-Find Parts
  23. 23:28Mark III's Underrated Custom Work
  24. 23:52Reliability of Third Gen Smiths
  25. 24:35Magazine Compatibility and Reliability
  26. 26:06Dot Torture Test
  27. 28:00Recoil Impulse and Shootability
  28. 29:39Ideal Future Third Gen Smith (Fourth Gen)
  29. 31:29Conclusion: The Vibe of the Third Gen Smith
  30. 32:52Cinematic Potential: Movie Gun Ideas
  31. 34:37Spectacular Custom Build
  32. 34:52If Smith Won't Do It, We Will

Frequently Asked Questions

What modifications were made to the Smith & Wesson 6906 in the video?

The Smith & Wesson 6906 was modernized with a custom bar stock compensator, an optic cut for red dot sights like the RMRcc, a retrofitted light rail, a full trigger job, deletion of the magazine safety, and a custom Cerakote finish. Custom texturing was also applied to the front strap.

Who performed the custom work on the third-generation Smith & Wesson pistol?

The custom modifications were performed by Mark III Firearms, a gunsmithing shop specializing in bespoke pistol builds. They are known for taking existing firearms and retrofitting them with custom parts and enhancements to create unique firearms.

Are third-generation Smith & Wesson pistols reliable for custom builds?

Yes, third-generation Smith & Wesson pistols are considered excellent base guns for custom builds due to their inherent reliability and enjoyable shooting characteristics. They provide a solid foundation for adding modern features and improving ergonomics.

What are the key features desired in a modernized third-generation Smith & Wesson?

Key features for a modernized third-generation Smith & Wesson include a light rail, a red dot cut, an improved trigger, enhanced grip texture, and potentially a compensator. Deleting the magazine disconnect is also a common desire.

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