I guess ya'll mighta noticed that ol' economy ain't perzackly whut she wuz.... Last year, or month, even. So, I went out to see what I could see, and after committing myself to a N-Series, Nickle-Plated 3 1/2" 27-2 with original Magnas, in 'barely used' condition for a cool $600... I ran into a very nice Model 41 (circa 1980) for the same price, ($600)... But here's the other "deal": Next to the 41 was a Model 46 (with the square-cut frame) for $795.... Also saw one of my old favorites, albeit, with the shorter barrel, the Original Belgian Browning Challenger...for $400. Apparently,as of today, these are fairly reasonable prices...(NOT that I'm getting one TODAY!) But -Eventually...I want to get a nice .22 auto again... but am just learning about the 41's & 46's. Seems the Model 46 is pretty rare puppy- yet prone to damage in the non-radiused models....Any input on this issue? I am getting wary of buying stuff "As an Investment" these days. But would like to get my pesos worth, and a little "Collector Value",never hurts. But for "All Around Value"...What is YOUR favorite auto .22, and WHY?
The 41 is my fav-love the takedown,and all steel design.Personally, that 46 wouldn't tempt even if it was cheaper than the 41,which I would buy. 400 seems about par for a nice Challenger-I have one,paid about that much-I'm a bit surprised that they don't command more as they are very nice guns.
The Model 41, by leaps and bounds. Quality, accuracy, trigger pull, sights, ergonomics (except for the safety), finish. I love mine, had it since 1979.
Ah, yes, the M-41 safety... I have often thought about ordering a replacement safety from S&W and having a good gunsmith make the 'pad' (the part of the safety that your thumb contacts) bigger and longer, more like a 1911's. They are so stiff, the bigger longer safety would give your thumb a lot more leverage.
There are some jackrabbits in the Utah desert that are alive today simply because of the small, stiff thumb safety of the Model 41!
