Smith & Wesson 41

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The Smith & Wesson Model 41 represents a pinnacle of precision engineering in the world of target pistols. Developed in the post-World War II era, this exceptional .22 Long Rifle semi-automatic pistol has been a favorite among competitive shooters for decades, embodying the pinnacle of American firearm craftsmanship.

Origins of a Legendary Target Pistol

The journey of the Smith & Wesson Model 41 began in July 1947 when the company’s president, Carl Hellstrom, initiated a dedicated project to create the ultimate rimfire target pistol. After 10 years of meticulous development, the Model 41 was finally introduced to the shooting public in 1957. The initial reception was extraordinary - Smith & Wesson could barely keep up with the overwhelming demand.

Technical Specifications

The Model 41 boasts impressive technical characteristics that set it apart from other target pistols of its time:

• Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
• Barrel Length: Available in 5.5-inch and 7-inch configurations
• Weight: Approximately 1,200 grams (42 ounces)
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds
• Action: Blowback, single-action semi-automatic

Design Features

What makes the Smith & Wesson Model 41 truly exceptional are its precision engineering and user-friendly design. The pistol features:

• Interchangeable barrels that can be easily swapped with a simple rotation of the trigger guard
• Micrometer-adjustable rear sights for exceptional accuracy
• Ergonomic laminated hardwood grips with ambidextrous thumb rests
• Crisp trigger mechanism with adjustable pull weight between 2.75 and 3.25 pounds

Competitive Legacy

Throughout its production history, the Model 41 has been a staple in competitive shooting circles. Its exceptional accuracy and reliability made it a favorite among target shooters, particularly in National Pistol Matches. The pistol’s design allows for remarkable precision, with some shooters reporting groups as tight as 0.5 to 0.75 inches at 25 meters.

Production History

The Model 41 has had an interesting production journey. Initially introduced in 1957 with just 679 units produced, it quickly became a sought-after firearm. By the end of 1958, Smith & Wesson had manufactured 9,875 pistols. The model has gone through several iterations, including a “no frills” Model 46 and various barrel length options.

🎯 Note: In August 2025, Smith & Wesson announced the discontinuation of the Model 41 by the end of that year, marking the end of an era for this iconic target pistol.

Collector’s Value

Today, the Smith & Wesson Model 41 is considered a collector’s item with significant historical value. Depending on condition, these pistols can command prices ranging from 995 to 1,179.