I am in the process of aquiring a Model 41-1 target pistol and would like to obtain some background information on the particular gun if possible as it seems to be a bit of an odd-ball variant. The gun in question is in poor external condition but shoots extremely well so I am prepared to proceed with the aquisition on the basis that the external appearance is secondary and can always be improved. The salient features of this particular gun are:

It is currently in Australia and as far as I know it was brought into the country by an importer rather than an individual so it may be a model specific to that market

The slide is marked Model 41-1 and 22 LR (from earlier research I thought the 41-1 was a model chambered for 22 Short only). It is definitely a 22 LR pistol.

Serial number is 92873

The official barrel length is 185mm (7 1/4" approx), the muzzle protrudes approx 1/4" beyond the frame, so perhaps this is an aftermarket barrel as all pictures I have been able to find of the 7" barrel Mod 41's show the muzzle flush with the frame.

Any assistance in being able to identify the gun would be appreciated.

Regards

Lloyd.

Welcome. An early barrel would be 7 3/8 inches long,and a factory original.
I am not aware of slides being model marked,only frames, though I confess to never having a 41-1 short model in my hand.
I also don't think that it would be uncommon for long rifle parts to end up on a shorts gun,and,as far as know,(based on the Standard catalog of S&W),a 41-1 is strickly a shorts gun.

is slide steel or aluminum?

Thanks for the prompt responses gents, further to the replies. My mistake the model number and chambering is stamped on the frame, not the slide and the slide is steel.

Given the value of the gun (AUD 550.00) I am considering re-blueing it myself in the first instance unless I can find a local gunsmith that is able to do the work for sub AUD 200.00.

The original grips are in pretty poor condition they are functional but cosmetically rubbish with lots of chips and dents in them, any ideas on replacements. The gun will be used for target work only as the use of concealable weapons (handguns) anywhere other than at approved ranges is prohibited in Australia (that precludes it's use for either plinking or hunting). It seems a bit of an anathema considering in my state I could use a rifle of unrestricted calibre / chambering provided I was shooting on a property greater than 40 acres and was more than 1000 metres from the nearest public road.

Thanks

Lloyd.

Tht protrusion of the barrel was to furnish a mounting for the muzzle brake that came with these guns. Under the protruding barrel, there is a hole drilled out, about 1/2 inch in diameter. There were two weights, steel and aluminum (US spelling) that went in that hole. There was a threaded hole in the front of each of the weights, that accepted a screw attaching the muzzle brake to the barrel.

Deepwater, from what I have read, we don't really know what you have.
Cyrano described the 7 3/8" bbl. The slide is a critical issue - if aluminum it would be correct for a .22 short. BUT with the bbl marked .22 LR and assuming the slide is steel, it may well be a 41-1 frame with a LR kit swapped out. Looking at the slide stop/ejector - the SHORT ejector cut is near the front while the LR cut is half way back or deeper. The SN range is well in line with 41-1s. Suggest you find out what you are actually buying. If I can help, e-mail me [email protected]

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TOMBECK

Lloyd,

I just listed a 41-1 for sale on this forum.
If I can be of any help, drop me a note.
I sent you a PM this evening.

Tom Graham

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Tom Graham SWCA #2303