The Smith & Wesson 4006: A Steel Warrior from a Forgotten Era

 

The 1990s were a turning point in American firearms history. Law enforcement was ditching the six-shooter in favor of semi-autos, and the .40 S&W cartridge had just hit the scene. Enter the Smith & Wesson 4006—a rugged, all-metal duty pistol built like a tank, designed to harness the newfound stopping power of .40 caliber and outlast anything thrown its way. It was big, heavy, and unapologetically overbuilt.

This third-generation Smith was crafted from stainless steel, giving it a weight of 32.5 ounces unloaded—nearly double that of the polymer-framed competitors that would eventually eclipse it. The double-action/single-action trigger system provided a familiar feel for officers transitioning from revolvers, and its 11+1 capacity gave it a clear edge over the old six-shot wheel guns. Manual safety and decocking levers were standard, offering both security and adaptability in high-stress situations.

For a time, the 4006 was widely trusted in law enforcement. Agencies appreciated its durability and controllability, particularly in a world where high-powered semi-autos were still proving themselves. But the writing was on the wall. The future belonged to lightweight, high-capacity polymer-framed pistols. Glocks, SIGs, and other striker-fired offerings demonstrated that reliability didn’t have to come in a 2-pound, hammer-fired package. Slowly but surely, the 4006 faded from duty holsters and into obscurity.

Yet, for the men who respect craftsmanship over convenience, the 4006 still stands as a monument to indestructible old-school engineering. It’s proof that well-built firearms don’t lose their effectiveness—they just get left behind by changing trends. Today, collectors seek them out, appreciating the era when a duty gun was designed to take a beating and keep firing.

For those serious about firearms, the story of the 4006 is more than just nostalgia. It’s a lesson in tradeoffs. Do you want an ultra-lightweight carry piece, or do you value the stability and longevity of steel? Do you trust decades of proven performance, or chase the latest polymer wonder-pistol? Guns come and go, but durability never goes out of style. The 4006 might be a relic, but it damn sure isn’t forgotten.