Armament Systems and Procedures Model ASP 9mm 3.5″ Semi-Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $3,600
WOA# WY240125JT006
Make: Smith & Wesson, Customized by Armament Systems and Procedures Inc.
Model: 39-2, ASP
Serial Number: A180943
Year of Manufacture: 1970’s
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: Double Action, Semi-Automatic, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol with Decocker
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked SN “A180943” “MODEL 39-2”. The left part of the slide is marked with the “SMITH & WESSON”, “MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING”. The right side of the frame is stamped with the S&W logo.
Barrel Length: 3 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The sight is an ASP yellow Guttersnipe sight fixed to the top of the slide at the rear.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip panels are two-piece smooth Lexan panels with clear witness windows. There are some scattered light handling marks. There are a few light scratches. Overall, these grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Teflon-S
Finish Originality: Original to ASP Customization
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rate 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is finish wear on the edges. There are some scattered little nicks and scratches.There is standard operational wear. The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is 2 ASP 7rd Magazines in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: The ASP, a pistol perhaps unfamiliar to most except those within the clandestine circles of the U.S. Government’s Silent Services, or readers of select John Gardner 007 novels. Gardner, the author, chose the ASP for James Bond in some of his works, recognizing its unique attributes. The ASP’s introduction was not recent; it doesn’t boast a polymer frame or a high-capacity magazine. It diverges from the contemporary notion of a “system” gun with dedicated suppressors or mounting rails for accessories. Yet, it brings together an amalgamation of traits that render it the ultimate covert carry, combat pistol globally. The ASP caters to those who knowingly venture into harm’s way, mirroring the life of the iconic spy, James Bond.
Decades may have passed since its development, but the ASP remains a revolutionary firearm, embodying exclusivity and dedication to a single purpose – combat. Paris Theodore, the mastermind behind its conception, operated a reputable custom gunleather business named Seventrees, Ltd. in New York City. Commissioned by the U.S. government to design and custom-manufacture a pistol for covert operatives worldwide, Theodore embarked on a groundbreaking journey. His vision necessitated a concealable firearm with a high capacity, compatibility with various bullet types, instant target acquisition, and reduced recoil. Theodore’s radical ideas culminated in the ASP, where over a quarter of the original Smith & Wesson Model 39 was transformed through meticulous handcrafting.
The ASP’s ingenuity lies in its multitude of innovations. From its Guttersnipe sight – an Advanced Sighting Plane sight – to transparent Lexan grips offering a glimpse into the magazine, each feature serves a purpose. Theodore’s design philosophy prioritized simplicity and efficiency, evident in the smooth grips facilitating a natural hand fit and the low-reflection, black Teflon-S coating ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Despite its slightly larger size compared to the Walther PPK, the ASP remains remarkably lightweight while delivering the felt recoil of a .22 caliber round, despite firing a major caliber. The ASP, crafted for those navigating the shadows of espionage, embodies sophistication, efficiency, and lethality – characteristics befitting James Bond himself. This is a great pistol for any gun collectors collection! Please see our photos and good luck bidding! C.J.
