I plan to replace the recoil spring in my "new to me" Model 46 as some of you have suggested. Owner said spring had not been replaced and it feels weak when manually cycling the slide. In searching the S&W forum, I see that various sources for Mod. 41 springs have been suggested including Brownells, Numerich, Wolfe, and straight from S&W. Prices seem to vary considerably. I'm assuming these aren't the same in quality/longevity. Anyone have experience with springs from these various sources? I'm leaning towards Wolfe's 7.5 lb variable spring. Any thoughts on why or if springs from the other sources might function better?

I assume the recoil spring for the Model 41 would be the same for the Model 46, correct? Also, I assume it would be wise to start with the standard strength spring of 7.5 lb, correct?

The model 41 and Model 46 springs are the same. Personally I would not change the spring unless the gun is not functioning correctly. I have a few of these models and have never had to change a spring. My 1958 41 works perfectly although it’s had very little use, my 1959 41 and 46 have had a lot more use and still function faultlessly. I would go for the S&W spring, only because it should be exactly correct.
The spring on the model 41/46 dose feel weak due to the light round it fires. The test is shooting it and correct function without feeding issued.
The S&W is 7.5lb.

Thanks for the reply Aussie Collector. I will shoot it.

Aussie is 100% correct with his statement on the spring. AS I own both a 41 and a 46 I would not change either spring until it has totally quite myself. You should enjoy yours for many years to come as well.