Just got my first model 41's (used), advice requested

[sig808]

Hi,

I just picked up a used 5.5" (2006) and a 7" (2002) Model 41.

They are in good used condition. They were range demo guns, so they were shooters and not safe queens. But they were not abused.

They seem to function fine and nothing is obviously wrong after I field stripped it.

But I don't know much about 41s and these are my first. So, is there anything in particular about model 41s that I should be inspecting?

Any recommendations about parts that I should immediately replace or services that should be done?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

 

[iwanna]

I own one. I had to replace my power spring right away to fix jamming problems. Wolf sells a three-spring set, but I only needed the light one for use with standard velocity ammo. Anyway, if you have feeding problems like stovepipes, this could be your culprit. If the spring looks 'iffy' as in bent or something (mine was), you might want to buy a couple of spares anyway.

Other than that mine is rock-solid. I think you will be very happy. I use mine as the benchmark for checking the accuracy of ALL other pistols and handguns, if that tells you anything.

 

[snoopdawg45]

The only advice that I have to offer, is buy a bunch of 22 shells[like bricks] I have two and they do eat up the ammo. I think you will enjoy.

John

 

[Stirling]

Pics would be nice, I haven't ever come across one here. I had a Ruger Mk.II bull barrel but always liked the look of the Model 41.

 

[sig808]

Thanks!

I was also wondering if it is possible to "shoot out" a model 41 barrel?

Is there any guidelines about the degradation of a size of a group (off a rest) that would show that it's time to change out the barrel?

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

Suggest a complete cleaning with grips off. Really flush and scrub clean. Attention to extractor area and fireing pin area as crud builds up in hidden areas/recesses. mags need cleaning also - see info with a search on how to dis-assemble mags. Double check chamber and chamber edges for ping marks. Consider buying Wolff spring set and possibly replacing the slide/recoil spring. I doubt you could "shoot out" a bbl. Have seen CCI test bbls with many hundred thousand rounds and still look strong but chamber face peened heavily (still fed and functioned - wish I had kept one). More likely damage from "cleaning" and poor bolt to slide fit (too common lately) or dry fireing with long pin.

 

[sig808]

That's very helpful. Thanks Tom! It looks like the range did a detail clean before they put it out for sale. But I didn't think about the mags. I will have to check the chamber face. Sounds like the 41 is a workhorse and a thing of beauty!

 

[Extremo]

If You're gong to change the recoil spring (which You should, +1 on a lighter one) then change the extractor spring as well.

I wouldn't worry about the barrel. Basicly You can't wear out a .22.

 

[iwanna]

Mine likes CCI Standards the best. That is, without getting really exotic.

 

[Barrie]

Mine was built in 1958 and the barrel is just as true as the day it was built with a lot of lead having gone thru it. Mostly CCI of course. These are truly a real workhorse which will outlast you and probably your children as well.

 

[GF1]

Keep it clean (clean barrel carefully), lube rails with light oil, enjoy them. I have two, same barrel lengths as you, both work great. Only mess with spring replacement etc. if needed. Mine haven't, and they've had many, many thousands of rounds down their spouts.

 

[Dudley]

I have two 41's, both bought used. Both are excellent guns, only feed them CCI Standard Velocity ammo. have yet to change any springs etc.

 

[Hornplayer]

I also bought a used M41 recently. It appeared to be in new condition so imagine my surprise when I found out it was about 25 years old. I am experiencing some stovepipes and it even jammed shut once with a spent casing in the chamber. Otherwise, I have shot around 200 rounds with just 4 or 5 of the FTE problems. Based on previous suggestions in this thread, I'm assuming a new, and possibly lighter, recoil spring may be in order. Also, the extractor appears to be slightly "buggered up" on one edge so maybe that needs to be replaced as well. Is replacing the extractor and putting in a new extractor spring something that a novice can do? Thanks for any suggestions and tips on doing this.