A Glance Back: The Dawn of the Compact
The Smith & Wesson 6904’s story is interwoven with the broader narrative of Smith & Wesson’s third-generation pistol series. These handguns represented a significant shift in the company’s approach, embracing a more modern design ethos, featuring durable alloy frames, and introducing the DA/SA trigger system. These pistols were quickly adopted by law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. The 6904 was one of the key players in this generation, designed to meet the growing demand for compact, concealable firearms that still packed a serious punch.
The release of the Smith & Wesson 6904 coincided with a dynamic period in the firearms market. The popularity of the 9mm cartridge was soaring, and the desire for pistols that could be easily carried for personal defense and law enforcement use became paramount. The 6904 entered the scene to fill this need, offering a balance of power, size, and handling that appealed to a wide range of users. It faced competition from other leading manufacturers who were also rushing to answer this demand, making the fight for market share fierce.
Examining the Details: Design and Construction
The Smith & Wesson 6904 is chambered in the versatile 9mm caliber, offering a respectable magazine capacity that provided enough firepower for a self-defense scenario. The frame, a defining characteristic of the design, was crafted from a lightweight aluminum alloy, reducing weight without sacrificing structural integrity. The slide, on the other hand, was made of robust carbon steel, contributing to the pistol’s overall durability and reliability. This combination of materials resulted in a balanced handgun, easy to carry without feeling flimsy.
The 6904 offered a series of safety mechanisms. The pistol incorporated a manual safety, a feature that provided an extra layer of security, allowing the user to manually disable the trigger mechanism. An internal firing pin block served as another line of defense, preventing the pistol from firing if dropped or subjected to impact. These safety measures were essential to provide a sense of security for those carrying the firearm.
Sights on the 6904 were typically fixed, offering a streamlined profile. While some models featured adjustable sights, the fixed configuration was favored for its simplicity and ruggedness, ideal for the pistol’s role as a concealed carry option. The trigger mechanism was a significant aspect, operating on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) system. The initial trigger pull was heavier, which served as an added level of safety, followed by a lighter single-action pull for subsequent shots.
The overall design of the Smith & Wesson 6904 embodied an aesthetic of functional simplicity. The grip was designed to be ergonomic, providing a comfortable and secure hold, even with smaller hands. The slide’s lines were clean and straightforward, and the controls were intuitively placed, facilitating quick and easy handling. These design choices made the 6904 a user-friendly firearm.
Performance in Action: Handling and Capabilities
The Smith & Wesson 6904 has earned a reputation for solid, dependable accuracy. While not a precision target pistol, it consistently delivered acceptable groupings at typical self-defense distances. This accuracy, combined with its inherent reliability, made it a practical choice for law enforcement and civilian applications.
Reliability is perhaps the most defining characteristic of the 6904. Many owners reported consistent and trouble-free operation under a variety of conditions. Smith & Wesson’s meticulous engineering, coupled with the quality of the materials, contributed to the 6904’s robust reputation. Though some users experienced occasional issues over time, these were often attributable to the wear of the components, and were often easily addressed.
The recoil impulse of the 6904, typical of a compact 9mm pistol, was manageable. The aluminum alloy frame helped to mitigate felt recoil, and the ergonomic grip aided in maintaining control, even during rapid firing. This combination allowed for quick follow-up shots.
The controls and overall design made the 6904 relatively easy to use. Loading and unloading were straightforward, and field stripping for cleaning and maintenance was simple and intuitive. This simplicity contributed to the pistol’s appeal.
Disassembly, Maintenance and Care
Field stripping the Smith & Wesson 6904 is a relatively easy process. After ensuring the pistol is unloaded, the user typically needs to retract the slide and lock it open. Then, a takedown lever is rotated, and the slide is released from the frame. The guide rod and spring are removed, followed by the barrel. Reassembly is accomplished in the reverse order.
Regular cleaning and proper lubrication are essential to keeping the 6904 operating at its peak. Recommended cleaning products include a quality bore cleaner, solvent for the slide and frame, and appropriate gun oil or grease for lubrication. Key areas to lubricate include the slide rails, barrel hood, and trigger mechanism.
Routine maintenance, such as checking the condition of the recoil spring, firing pin, and extractor, can help identify potential problems before they escalate. Proper storage in a climate-controlled environment can help protect the firearm from the elements.
Weighing the Options: Advantages and Drawbacks
The Smith & Wesson 6904 offers a host of benefits. Its proven reliability, compact size, and enduring durability are its strongest assets. Its ability to conceal and provide sufficient firepower were key to its popularity. The DA/SA trigger action was a plus for some, especially those accustomed to revolvers.
However, the pistol is not without its drawbacks. While the DA/SA trigger action was preferred by some, others found the initial trigger pull to be heavy. The 6904’s capacity might be considered limited compared to modern designs, and the availability of spare parts and accessories can be somewhat limited.
Comparison: Looking at the Competition
When considering other pistols, the Smith & Wesson 6904 was frequently compared with similar compact handguns, particularly other models from Smith & Wesson. Compared to its contemporaries, the 6904 offered a compelling combination of attributes that made it a popular choice. The 6906, another model from the same era and of similar size, often features an alloy frame, but the 6904 stands out for its compact dimensions, making it easier to carry. The Smith & Wesson 3913, a single-stack pistol from the 3rd generation, offered slightly slimmer profiles, but the 6904’s design made it a more practical option for many users.
Availability and Value: Finding a 6904 Today
While the Smith & Wesson 6904 is no longer in production, they do pop up on the used market. The value of a 6904 typically varies, depending on its condition, the presence of original accessories, and the market’s current demands. Purchasing a used Smith & Wesson 6904 involves considering the overall condition, looking for signs of wear, and ensuring proper function before committing to the purchase.
User Reviews and Sentiment
The Smith & Wesson 6904 enjoyed a generally favorable reception among gun owners. Many lauded its reliability, easy handling, and compact size. Reviews often cited the pistol’s suitability for concealed carry, praising its ability to deliver a potent combination of firepower and practicality. Many users appreciated its straightforward design.
Closing Thoughts: Legacy and Recommendation
The Smith & Wesson 6904 remains a respected handgun. Its legacy lies in its reliability, and user-friendliness. It’s a testament to the fact that a well-designed handgun, can endure over time.
The Smith & Wesson 6904 is a reliable option for those who desire a compact 9mm pistol for concealed carry or personal protection. The pistol’s reputation for reliability and its user-friendly design make it a good choice for both novice and experienced shooters. The Smith & Wesson 6904 is a fine example of a gun that focused on function, creating a classic that is still respected today.
