Since I recently bought my 2007 S&W model 41, I've been trying to find out as much as I can about the model 41 pistols that are being made at the Houlton, ME plant. Such as, what year did Smith & Wesson move the production of the 41 to that location. Also, what modifications and changes have been made to them since the move was made? I've read something about a rear sight change made from Millett to their Bo-mar type sight? Are there certain years of these later pistols considered to be better than others? Like I said, I'm just trying to find out as much information as I can. Thanks in advance for any replies.
Houlton, Maine Model 41 question
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Aussie Collector
Member
Production started in Maine with the Model 41 new model in 1994.
The stocks were changed, millets were added as well as the barrel drilled and tapped for a scope in 1994.
The stocks were changed, millets were added as well as the barrel drilled and tapped for a scope in 1994.
Aussie Collector
Member
The gun may be stamped Springfield but its made in Maine. You may find that all the guns made in Maine are shipped to Springfield for distribution.
Aussie Collector
Member
Rumor coming from the move to Maine
There is a rumor on the internet that the Model 41 was dropped from the production line in 1992, then due to consumer demand reintroduced in 1994. Google it, its everywhere.
What is very interesting is this is very loosely correct but at the same time wrong. The Model 41 dropped (dropped no, stopped yes) from production in 1992 as during the move from Springfield to Maine production was interrupted. Some reports state the Model 41 moved to Maine in 1992 others state 1994. Either way production started in Maine with the Model 41 new model in 1994. The new model 41 was also catalogued 1994, no question there.
There is a rumor on the internet that the Model 41 was dropped from the production line in 1992, then due to consumer demand reintroduced in 1994. Google it, its everywhere.
What is very interesting is this is very loosely correct but at the same time wrong. The Model 41 dropped (dropped no, stopped yes) from production in 1992 as during the move from Springfield to Maine production was interrupted. Some reports state the Model 41 moved to Maine in 1992 others state 1994. Either way production started in Maine with the Model 41 new model in 1994. The new model 41 was also catalogued 1994, no question there.
I do believe you may be correct.
Smith & Wesson?s Houlton plant manager retiring after 39 years ? Business ? Bangor Daily News ? BDN Maine
Sebago Son
Member
Another rumor is that S&W was going to drop the 41 for good as they couldn't get it right in Springfield. The Management of the Houlton plant suggested that they could make it work and asked that they be given the gun to build. They made it run right and kept the plant open.
I think it would be foolish for them to drop the 41 as there's still lots of sales of them out there new and used. They should increase production and quality of them actually if they were smart. I know all kinds of people who would be glad to be able to buy a new one if they could find them.
Aussie Collector
Member
These were rumours that circulated in early 90s. They were just that rumours – being tall tales, misinformation, half-truths or fabrication.
