A Brief History of Smith & Wesson’s Third Generation
The world of firearms is filled with iconic designs, and amongst them, the Smith & Wesson 4586 holds a special place for those who appreciate robust, reliable handguns. This pistol represents a crucial chapter in Smith & Wesson’s history, embodying the shift towards more durable and user-friendly designs. Let’s explore the intricacies of this remarkable firearm.
Before delving into the specifics of the Smith & Wesson 4586, it’s essential to understand the context in which it emerged. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw a significant evolution in Smith & Wesson’s handgun designs. They introduced what became known as the Third Generation series. These handguns were a response to the demands for improved reliability, enhanced ergonomics, and greater modularity. The Third Generation pistols were built upon a sturdy foundation, featuring a more robust construction, incorporating features that offered improvements over the earlier models.
These pistols showcased several key advancements. The double-action/single-action (DA/SA) operating system provided shooters with the flexibility of both a long, deliberate first shot and subsequent shots with a lighter pull. The Third Generation also saw the introduction of improved safety features, including firing pin blocks and some models incorporated ambidextrous controls, making them accessible to a wider range of users. The modular design allowed for different frame sizes, slide lengths, and cartridge options, catering to various needs from concealed carry to duty use.
This generation of pistols signaled a significant shift in how Smith & Wesson designed and produced its firearms, setting the stage for the development of the Smith & Wesson 4586.
Birth of the .45 ACP Powerhouse: The 4586
The introduction of the Smith & Wesson 4586 represented a crucial step for Smith & Wesson, filling a specific need in the .45 ACP market. In a landscape dominated by 9mm handguns, the .45 ACP offered a distinct advantage, particularly in stopping power. The Third Generation platform’s robust nature provided an ideal foundation for chambering this potent cartridge. The demand was present, especially within law enforcement circles, for a reliable and powerful sidearm.
The design goals were clear: to create a pistol that harnessed the stopping power of the .45 ACP while maintaining the reliability and user-friendliness that characterized the Third Generation pistols. The target market was broad, encompassing law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilian shooters seeking a reliable and powerful handgun for self-defense and target shooting.
The 4586 distinguished itself from its siblings by its caliber. Designed specifically for the .45 ACP cartridge, it delivered the heavier bullet weight and energy transfer associated with the .45 caliber round. This choice immediately set the 4586 apart.
Unveiling the Features and Specifications
The Smith & Wesson 4586 is more than just a collection of parts; it’s a carefully engineered machine. Let’s examine its core characteristics.
The heart of the 4586 lies in its double-action/single-action (DA/SA) operating system. This mechanism offers users the choice of a longer, heavier trigger pull for the first shot, and a lighter, crisper trigger pull for subsequent shots. This configuration allows for both safe carry and the option for rapid follow-up shots. This versatility made the 4586 suitable for various scenarios, from concealed carry to law enforcement duty.
The construction of the 4586 emphasizes durability. It is built with a stainless steel frame and slide. The stainless steel construction provides exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear, making the pistol suitable for demanding environments. The use of this high-quality material contributed to the pistol’s reputation for longevity.
The overall design of the 4586 is straightforward and functional. The frame features a comfortable grip, optimized for ease of handling and a secure hold. The overall shape is designed for a balance of power and control.
The magazine holds a reasonable number of rounds, usually seven, providing a good balance between capacity and concealability. The magazine release button is conveniently positioned, allowing for rapid reloading.
The sights are typical three-dot configurations. The sights provide quick and accurate target acquisition. The sights, while functional, are not the most advanced on the market, but they are adequate for defensive shooting and target practice.
Safety is a crucial consideration in any firearm. The Smith & Wesson 4586 includes several safety features designed to prevent accidental discharges, including a firing pin block.
The weight of the 4586 is significant, due to the all-stainless steel construction. However, this weight also contributes to its ability to absorb recoil. The dimensions are relatively compact for a .45 ACP pistol.
Performance, Handling, and the Shooting Experience
The true test of any firearm is its performance in the hands of a shooter. The Smith & Wesson 4586 generally exhibits solid performance characteristics.
Accuracy is good for its intended use. While not designed for competitive shooting, the 4586 provides more than sufficient accuracy for self-defense or target practice. Groups are typically tight at typical defensive ranges. The sights contribute to a comfortable shooting experience, enabling quick target acquisition.
Recoil, of course, is a characteristic of the .45 ACP cartridge. The 4586, due to its weight, effectively mitigates recoil, making the pistol relatively manageable even with the potent .45 ACP rounds. The weight helps to keep the muzzle rise to a minimum, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
The reliability of the Smith & Wesson 4586 is a significant strength. The stainless steel construction and robust design contribute to its dependability. Proper maintenance is, of course, essential for ensuring optimal performance. Generally, these pistols were built to withstand extensive use and harsh conditions.
Ease of use is another notable aspect. The controls are well-placed and user-friendly. Field stripping and cleaning is also a straightforward process. The simplicity of the design contributes to its ease of maintenance, allowing owners to keep their pistols in peak condition.
The overall shooting experience with the Smith & Wesson 4586 is generally positive. The comfortable grip, manageable recoil, and reliable action all contribute to an enjoyable time at the range.
Legacy and Market Positioning
The Smith & Wesson 4586 has a definite place in the history of Smith & Wesson. It represented a commitment to producing a solid, reliable .45 ACP pistol.
The pistol is no longer in production. However, because of its quality, it continues to be sought after on the used market. Prices can vary depending on condition and any modifications.
The pistol was well-received by both civilian shooters and law enforcement. Its reliability and powerful cartridge made it attractive to those seeking a sidearm for personal defense or duty use. It found its way into the hands of those who valued reliability and ease of use.
In comparison to other pistols, the Smith & Wesson 4586 had to compete with a wide array of .45 ACP options. The 4586 stood out for its all-stainless steel construction and DA/SA action. Compared to other Smith & Wesson models, it shared the reliability and design philosophy of the Third Generation series, but with the added benefit of the potent .45 ACP round.
Today, the Smith & Wesson 4586 remains a valuable piece for collectors, appreciating the Third Generation Smith & Wesson pistols.
The Balancing Act: Pros and Cons
Like any firearm, the Smith & Wesson 4586 has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros
- Reliability: Its stainless steel construction and robust design contribute to its dependability.
- Stopping Power: Chambered in .45 ACP, offering a significant advantage in terms of stopping power.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel construction means the pistol is resistant to corrosion.
- User-Friendly: The DA/SA action is easy to learn and use.
- Accuracy: Capable of delivering accurate shots at typical defensive ranges.
Cons
- Weight: The stainless steel construction makes it heavier than some other options.
- Obsolete Production: No longer in production, limiting availability.
- Limited Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity might be lower compared to more modern designs.
Conclusion: A Timeless Handgun
The Smith & Wesson 4586 is a testament to the quality and ingenuity of Smith & Wesson. It is a dependable pistol that offered the potent .45 ACP round and provided a functional and durable platform.
The 4586 represented a good balance of power, reliability, and user-friendliness. While it is no longer produced, it remains a sought-after pistol for its quality.
If you appreciate reliable, classic handguns, the Smith & Wesson 4586 is worth considering. This pistol is an excellent choice for collectors or anyone who desires a powerful and dependable sidearm.
For further information, explore online forums and review publications for specific experiences.
