Are they still making model 41's
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The Model 41 is, I believe, still in the 2015 catalog. The other single action 22 Auto they made, Model 22A I think it was called, is discontinued.
I was told that the Houlton, Maine plant will make a batch of a particular model and then switch over to something else. I had an order in for a new 7" barrel (barrel only) 2 years a ago and was told that the Houlton plant was busy making M&P pistols and that it may take up to a year to receive the barrel. The barrel did eventually arrive about 7 months later.
mauiblue
Member
I've never seen a new Model 41 in stock at Bud's Gun Shop for years after I bought mine back in 2007. I've done some searching online and only place that frequently have them is Gun Broker (NIB). I thought that S&W did stop making them but I guess these guns are pretty much sold before they are even manufactured. I guess you need to place an order for one and hopefully you get one.
22A-1 and Model 41
I thought that maybe this is where I should post this - I recently retired and wanted to take up marksmanship - so I bought a S&W 22 A-1 SS - its really nice - however I haven't found the time to devote - until now - I'm committed to perfecting my skills - The 22 A1 is really nice and should be a great training pistol for me - I've started looking at a second gun and I keep coming back to the S&W 41 - but at 1400.00 it seems a lot of money up front - What makes the model 41 so much better that's its worth so much more? And should I continue to focus on using iron sights or go to an optical sight?
Any thoughts?
I thought that maybe this is where I should post this - I recently retired and wanted to take up marksmanship - so I bought a S&W 22 A-1 SS - its really nice - however I haven't found the time to devote - until now - I'm committed to perfecting my skills - The 22 A1 is really nice and should be a great training pistol for me - I've started looking at a second gun and I keep coming back to the S&W 41 - but at 1400.00 it seems a lot of money up front - What makes the model 41 so much better that's its worth so much more? And should I continue to focus on using iron sights or go to an optical sight?
Any thoughts?
Thr short answer to the first part of your question is twofold.....
The 41 is affected by economies of scale. Meaning that the unit cost for S&W to make one is higher (and thus the price) because volume is low. The volume is low because the gun isn't in high demand relatively speaking. The bullseye leagues are made up of ageing people who already own the guns they will use, and few new people enter this discipline despite the shooting sports becoming much more popular lately. The secon reason is that the 41 is built "like they used to make 'em". It's a high quality handgun made out of carbon steel with close tolerances and high levels of finish. This means labor, materials, and skilled employees that can productively make the gun correctly. It is very accurate and reliable and to anyone who owns one and uses it, well worth it. Even with the shrinking bullseye market, competition from cheaper guns, and increasing cost, smith sells every 41 they make, and the dealers get top dollar for them often before they ever hit the display case.
As far as your second question. That entirely depends on your eyes. I'd stick with irons for now until you find yourself becoming limited by your body, or you try the guns of other shooters usig red dots.
$1400 sounds a bit high. You may be looking at the performance center model. They should trade about $1200-$1300, but it might be more regionally. Used should be an option for you also. Again, top dollar will be needed, but you can get A LOT of used 41 for $800. (And many will argue that the older guns are better anyways)
I hope this helps. The 22a is a good blaster, but the 41 is at a totally different level. It won't make you shoot like a champ, but it will certainly help you shoot closer to your true ability, and wil not hold you back.
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The Model 41 is definitely being made. They came out with the Performance Center version recently. The guns are listed in the S&W online catalogue. I have seen the 41's in various gun shops including Shoot Straight as well as available online. I just got a brand new Performance Center for an unheard of price of $945!!! Don't expect to get that price. Usually they are in the $1,300 range.
Also, I do not think that Bullseye is dying at all. New blood is coming in.
Also, I do not think that Bullseye is dying at all. New blood is coming in.
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I agree with Lobonca's statement of New Shooters joining all the time as my club runs the handgun course every month and usually has around 15 new members every time. Even a used M41 is a great gun to buy generally and the majority of them are in good shape no matter what age. Because of the cost I think most owners really try to look after them. They are fools if they don't.
kenv1950
Member
Take your time searching for the best price, i've been shooting my 41 since 1968---fine gun-- have two of them
mmcwillis
Member
I'm a dealer and I've had standard and performance center models on back order for well over a year, with 3 distributors. Mags have been available off and on but no guns.
mauiblue
Member
If you are really serious about competition a Model 41 is a great investment. I bought mine because it is one of the best 22lr pistols made and I was fortunate enough to find one brand new and had the means to acquire it. I enjoy shooting and the quality and accuracy is top notch. I almost thought of trading it off for a 1911 but came to my senses. Eventually I can get a 1911 but a quality Model 41 I already know the history of is rare to come across.
As many have stated, the 41 is still in the lineup. They are on the website, in the catalog and on display at the SHOT show.
Availability is another story, but it will be worth the wait
The Houlton facility is also where the 3rd generation autoloaders are being made.
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