Real world value of Model 46

Hognfrog · Sep 24, 2016

Trying to purchase a S&W Model 46 with one magazine in the original box in "near" mint condition.
I see one on "armslist" listed as minty with box and paperwork (targets) for $1250 and another one listed for 1500. What is the actual value of these now days.
I would like to have one, but feel the 1500 is way over priced, the 1250 one looks fantastic, but is it worth that much?
Thanks for any input.

TOM BECKWITH · Sep 24, 2016

Expect you will get several opinions. Prices tend to vary by area of US. S&W 46s becoming more popular for collectors. Assuming a 7" bbl, with box etc. and 98% - $950 - $1100. For 5.5" or 5" add $200 - $300 range

muzzleblast · Sep 24, 2016

Irrespective of the M-46's relative scarcity versus the M-41, I always considered them less desirable simply because the M-46s are not as pretty. I am pretty sure a nice, vintage M-41 can be had for between $1250 and $1500. But, of course, this really doesn't answer your question. I think Tom probably gave a pretty good answer.

Tom S. · Sep 24, 2016

"Minty" means it's not NIB or ANIB. In other words, it's used and the seller is trying to convince you it's not that used. Personally, I wouldn't pay that kind of money (either sum) unless it was verified as new or as new in box - period. The seller can keep his "minty" for the next fish, although I doubt that fish like mints either.

Barrie · Sep 24, 2016

The only real difference between a M46 and M41 is a lack of options on it. They are externally weighted instead of internal weighted. Many but not all came with a Pinkish Gray set of plastic handgrips on them instead of the Walnut ones. Basically they shoot just the same and look very similar as well. Also there is NO cocking indicator on the M46 as well. Thats basically the big differences between the two designs.The M46 feels and shoots identical to the same models in a M41. They were cheaper to buy because of the less options but as good a gun as the M41's in most cases. Usually much harder to find as they only built around a total of 4100 of them in 2 batchs. I would buy the one for around $1150. is a fair price for that gun with box and books for it.

TOM BECKWITH · Sep 24, 2016

Barrie, may want to point out that the narrow rail on the 46 is a weakness, especially the early square cut slides. If one buys a 41 slide, all the bbl options are open.

Barrie · Sep 26, 2016

Thom was that not only at the beginning series of the 46's. I know they had the cut radius problem but it was fixed at one point while they were still being produced. Don't know where in the serial no's it changed to the better one but my 1963 M46 has the good one on it

TOM BECKWITH · Sep 26, 2016

Modification from square cut slide to radiused started around 24000

MAJPATT · Sep 26, 2016

Mine is 24951, square cut. Great gun. Hope I don't crack it one of these days.

Barrie · Sep 26, 2016

Just don't use any high powered ammo in it. That was generally the main cause for them cracking in the 1st place. I use mine as a backup for when and if my M41 gets sick only.

Gar L. · Sep 28, 2016

According to the 37th Blue Book of Gun Values, pg 958, Mint is described as typically 98%-99% condition with almost no observable wear. Probably sold previously at retail, and may have been shot occasionally.

Barrie · Sep 28, 2016

Welcome to the Forum Gar L. from Canada. Thank You for your helpful contribution already. I was shooting my M46 last night for a wee bit just to make sure its firing as it should. They both use the same magazines as well in them.

Real world value of Model 46

Hognfrog

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