Model 41 and 46 Stocks

[civil1977]

Every so often there are questions about the stocks (aka grips) for Model 41s and 46s so I thought some pictures might help. Note that the timeframes given below are approximate and as with any production change, there is a transition period between styles.

The original stocks were checkered walnut with more of a matte finish. They usually appear darker and richer in color than newer walnut stocks. To my knowledge these were used from the start of production in 1957 to sometime around 1970+/-.







In the 1970s and into the early 1980s the checkered walnut stocks had a somewhat shinier finish and were lighter in color.













Around the mid 1980s the walnut was phased out as S&W started using goncalo alves. These stocks have a shinier finish and the grain color varies from light to dark. Also smooth stocks were offered during this time although they are not commonly seen today.







At some point in the late 1990s, S&W went back to a matte finish and changed the checkering pattern which no longer wrapped around the rear of the stocks. Around 2000, S&W started using laminated wood stocks, mostly likely made by Altamont.

Model 46 stocks were made of a dark red/brown nylon and were used on the Model 46 from its introduction in 1959 until it was dropped from the line in 1968. Towards the end of production, it has been reported that some Model 46s were shipped with Model 41 wood stocks. No doubt some Model 46 owners changed their stocks to the Model 41 wood stocks for various reasons. Note the checkering does not wrap around the back of the stocks and there is a checkered thumb pad on the left side only. Note that these stocks had a tendency to shrink a little and the result is a gap at the lower rear where the panels meet.







There are several different types of aftermarket and custom stocks for the Model 41 (and 46). This set appears to be a modified factory set.







Comparing them with factory stocks, they are much thinner in profile with a different checkering pattern:







Quick tech tip, when storing these stocks off of the frame, use a small piece of wood or staples to provide support for the panels.

 

[Vectorxw8]

The reason I wanted an older model 41 was because of the darker wood grips. I thought they were darker because of age and handling. From what you are showing they were just stained darker right out of the factory. Thanks for the information. Scott

 

[Barrie]

In the beginning they used Walnut wood which is a darker wood usually to begin with. Probably due to cost they switched to the different woods which were lighter in color.

 

[Troystat]

Nice write up, I am surprised they changed from Walnut to Goncalo Alves, the relatively plain Walnut S&W used was not that expensive. Now if they just made them in Rosewood I would really be happy

 

[okiegtrider]

Interesting, informative post. Thanks !

 

[Aussie Collector]

Great Post and as always good detailed pictures, very well done. Thanks.

The reason I wanted an older model 41 was because of the darker wood grips. I thought they were darker because of age and handling. From what you are showing they were just stained darker right out of the factory. Thanks for the information. Scott

The walnut did come in different shades from the deep dark chocolate, to the lighter ones pictured. Variations in the trees I guess. I too like the dark chocolate ones, hmm or may be I just like chocolate.