Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This heavily modified Smith & Wesson Model 59 represents the pinnacle of custom combat pistol work during the early 1980s, when competition shooting was driving rapid innovation in handgun design. Created by legendary gunsmith Charles “Chuck” Kelsey, Devel conversions were among the most sought-after custom pistols of their era. Before CNC machining and factory “tactical” models existed, gunsmiths like Kelsey performed these extensive modifications by hand, creating weapons optimized for the burgeoning practical shooting sports. The “Full-House” package was Devel’s most comprehensive conversion, transforming the stock S&W Model 59 into a purpose-built competition machine. The process started with shortening both the grip and frame for better concealment, while the slide was fluted to reduce weight for faster cycling. The barrel was shortened to 3½ inches and fitted with a special Devel bushing to improve accuracy.
Other competition-focused features include the recessed front sight with high-visibility red insert, fully adjustable rear sight, polished feed ramp, and relieved trigger guard with finger hook for improved control. The distinctive carbon fiber grips with transparent viewing slots were cutting-edge for the time, allowing the shooter to visually confirm how many rounds remained. What makes Devel conversions historically significant is their influence on production pistols. Many features pioneered by custom gunsmiths like Kelsey eventually found their way into factory guns, as manufacturers recognized the demand for competition-ready features. Smith & Wesson’s later third-generation pistols incorporated several design elements first seen on these custom guns.
“Devel ‘Full-House’ Conversion S&W Model 59 Pistol with Box.” Rock Island Auction Company, https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4094/1549/devel-fullhouse-conversion-sw-model-59-pistol-with-box. Accessed 5 May 2025.
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