Serial number prefix

[Centex Bill]

A friend advises me that M41pistols with a prefix "A" are more valuable thatn one without. Is this correct?

Centex Bill

[armorer951]

The "A" prefix series began in 1970, ( up thru about 1984 ) so he's probably referring to the fact that the "older" versions are considered more valuable by many shooters and collectors.


Carter

[Hair Trigger]

Originally Posted by Centex Bill

A friend advises me that M41pistols with a prefix "A" are more valuable thatn one without. Is this correct?

Centex Bill

Probably due to the era of their production, from the 1970's to mid 1980's. One particular thing about them is that S&W discovered about 600 of them in 1973 had duplicate serial numbers between A140001 and A 140604. S&W appended another "A" to the end of the SN of the duplicates to make them different. If you have one of them, they might bring a bit more because they are unusual in that respect, but still identical to other M41's made during the period. From what I read about M41 issues, the ones made prior to the 1990's have less problems and are overall better finished. I have one from 1985, just beyond the "A" SN prefix. Mine has the newer three-letter prefix.

[SonofaGunsmith]

I prefer the serial numbered guns after 30000 up to 100000. Under 30000 growing pains and low production. After 100000 changing to A serial with slight changes.