GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The Smith & Wesson 5906 was introduced in the late 1980s as part of the company's 3rd Generation pistol lineup. Built entirely of stainless steel, it emphasized durability, safety, and traditional double-action operation. Although discontinued, the 5906 remains a favorite among collectors and fans of all-metal handguns.

Why It's a Top Choice

All-steel construction for enhanced durability and recoil control
DA/SA operation with decocker and ambidextrous safety
Used extensively by law enforcement in the 1990s
Reliable feeding and extraction with most 9mm loads
Excellent trigger feel and short reset for its era

Key Variants

Smith & Wesson 5906

The standard model with a stainless steel frame and slide, favored for full-size service use.

Smith & Wesson 5906 TSW

The Tactical Smith & Wesson variant features an accessory rail and upgraded internals.

Smith & Wesson 5903

Lightweight alloy-frame version for those seeking reduced carry weight.

Smith & Wesson 5946

DAO-only 9mm variant designed primarily for law enforcement agencies prioritizing safety.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Smith & Wesson 5906	Beretta 92FS	Sig Sauer P226
MSRP	Discontinued	$799	$1,099
Capacity/Size	15+1 full size	15+1 full size	15+1 full size
Weight	38 oz	33.3 oz	34 oz
Optics-ready	No	No	No
Trigger type	DA/SA with decocker	DA/SA with decocker	DA/SA with decocker
Notable pro	Exceptional build quality and accuracy	Military-proven reliability	Excellent ergonomics and modularity
Notable con	Heavy for daily carry	Large grip for smaller hands	Higher cost

Best Use Cases

Home and personal defense
Law enforcement surplus collection
Range training and high-volume shooting
Classic full-size pistol enthusiasts

FAQs

What is the Smith & Wesson 5906 made of?

It is built with a stainless steel slide and frame, increasing durability and reducing recoil.

Can I mount optics on the Smith & Wesson 5906?

No, the 5906 does not feature an optics-ready slide from the factory.

How does the Smith & Wesson 5906 compare to modern carry pistols?

It is heavier and larger but offers superior recoil control and traditional DA/SA ergonomics.

SMITH AND WESSON 5906 for Sale