laminated grips on a 46

[nyeguy]

I have three 46 Smiths. One is a later gun with laminated grips. The dealer i bought it from says the last of the 46's had laminated grips and not plastic. I don't know that. Do you??

Also, I have one of them with the 5 1/2 in heavy barrel. Question: will a 41 barrel and slide fit a 46 but not vice-versa because of the cut in the locking lug? Mine has the cut but the extra barrel I bought at a show won't fit. I know about the square cut and round cut but not sure which one is which now.

Jim............

[TOM BECKWITH]

Later 41s had either the red plastic or standard checkered wood grips - laminated grips came much later.
41 slide and bbl can fit a 46 frame and the reverse. 46 bbl will not fit with a 41 slide due to rail width on 41 slide. The opposite will work - but ugly. Not sure what other comment is, but a round cut 46 slide will generally not fit an earlier square cut bbl.

[824tsv]

Anyone with 3 Model 46's must post pictures. It's a forum policy

[Aussie Collector]

I agree where are the pictures. Pictures get more attention.

As already pointed out Model 46's did not come with laminated stocks, your stock will be a much later addition. By posting pictures comments on the originality of the gun can be given.

Here is a picture of the slide cuts on the Model 46.

[Barrie]

I see another difference as well in the front sight being different also in some models. Of course that may have been changed over time as well.

[nyeguy]

I only have two 46's here with me in Mt. Other 2 are in my safe in Az. I will post when I get time.
Two complete guns plus an extra barrel here in Mt.

So the 46 I have with laminated grips....the grip is from a 41 and 46's NEVER came with a set!?

[824tsv]

"So the 46 I have with laminated grips....the grip is from a 41 and 46's NEVER came with a set!?"


Your question was answered twice by 2 of this forum's most seasoned experts on 41/46 pistols. Both say no. I would agree.

[Barrie]

Some one has changed the grips on your 46 long ago. I have a set of 41 grips on my 46 but that was my choice to install them on it as I am very hand sensitive. Both wrists have 6" Carpal tunnel scars from surgury which has left my hands very limited for feel. Certain materials I cannot feel the material at all. Wood I can hold onto better then plastic or rubber grips.