This particular S&W Model 4046 DOA in ".40 S&W" is an early <span class="ev_code_RED">"Test"</span> or <span class="ev_code_RED">"Sample"</span> gun submitted to the Tulsa Ok. Police Dept for their evaluation in the late 1990 - early 1991 period.
Differences between the "Test" gun and the eventual production gun are;
* the slide and frame (both were lengthened in the production gun to partially cover the hammer)
* the safety lever was removed but the "red dot" indicators on both sides remain on the frame

This particular S&W Model 4046 DOA in ".40 S&W" is an early <span class="ev_code_RED">"Test"</span> or <span class="ev_code_RED">"Sample"</span> gun submitted to the Tulsa Ok. Police Dept for their evaluation in the late 1990 - early 1991 period.
Differences between the "Test" gun and the eventual production gun are;
* the slide and frame (both were lengthened in the production gun to partially cover the hammer)
* the safety lever was removed but the "red dot" indicators on both sides remain on the frame

Nice gun and very interesting story. Can you comment on how you were able to buy the gun and also post a picture of it with the hammer cocked in what would be the normal carry mode?

Bill

Dot_mdb;
Additional photos as requested...The gun was advertised on "Gunbroker" at what to me was a fair price given its condition and uniqueness...The "Aker" Model 4046 holster was picked up on Ebay...Both are nice additions to my S&W collection...

Thanks for the additional pics. I have a 4046 built in about 1992. It has the longer slide. I am comparing it to your pictures. I am surprised that S&W found it necessary to build a new frame and slide for the regular production guns. There isn't all that much more exposed hammer with the standard slide that was on the prototype.

Bill

Mr. Dot_mdb; While not common, S&W had used this practice when developing similar DAO handguns. In the <span class="ev_code_GREEN">"Winter 1990"</span> issue of <span class="ev_code_GREEN">"Guns & Weapons for Law Enforcement"</span> there is a discussion of the slide length variations in developing the <span class="ev_code_RED">Model 3954</span> 9mm using the frame of the production issue 3914. P. 24 quote: <span class="ev_code_RED">"At the outset, we must point out that pistol was specially made up by hand from a conventional Model 3914 pistol. The purpose was to get it out into the hands of as many plainclothes police officers as possible, as well as other users, in order to determine if this model will be as well received as its other new DA-only pistols."</span>

Mr. Dot_mdb; An article titled, <span class="ev_code_GREEN">"The .40 Smith & Wesson"</span> in the <span class="ev_code_GREEN">"American Rifleman", </span> January 1991 p.22-25 & 73 also pictures a "prototype 4046 DOA" with the shorter slide & frame and safety red dots.

I understand that S&W extended the frame/ slide on their DAO models for two reasons;
1) cosmetic - to contain/ cover the snubbed/lopped hammer
2) to prevent attempts to cock the hammer manually thus creating a potential safety concern..

BTT March 28th was this "Salesman's Sample" 4046 - 22nd Birthday...