Do I really need to install a buffer in my 41 if I shoot high velocity ammo in it? Will a buffer alter the cycle time?

I don't use high velocity ammunition in my model 41s because I only punch holes in paper, and I find CCI Std. velocity, green tag and pistol match to be very accurate.

I haven't used buffers, but what I can tell you is that last year I was at the S&W public range in Springfield, Mass. and the rental 41s there were only available for rent using CCI Mini-mag. This even though S&W reportedly uses CCI standard velocity ammunition for test firing.

I can't imagine a buffer would hurt anything, but in the years of reading every post I see on the 41, and in 30 years of shooting them, I haven't heard lots of praise for buffers.

I could be wrong, as I'm certainly no gunsmith, but... I'm pretty sure the 41 has a buffer (as do most/all? semiautos). High velocity ammo will simply wear it out more quickly. I think the fix is to install a stiffer spring, such as those from Wolf.

quote:

I could be wrong

Ah, you are.