Model 41 Barrel Fitting

[A-37]

I have an old Model 41 with an "A" prefix SN. Recently, I bought a new barrel and it takes what I think is excessive force to close the trigger guard to lock the barrel into place.

Does my photo show the proper place to do a little work with a file to make barrel changing easier?

 

[AU-Man]

Yep!

You got it!

 

[smithfan4152]

fitting

Hello,
that would be my opinion, I actually sent my gun into S&W for that work, but the guy told me he was filing down both sides of the bed, which made absolutely no sense, He was or is the Model 41 guy Vito.
Anyway I paid $75.00 for the work, and I really think he only needed to adjust that angle.
Problem is removing just the right amount of stock, as things can change in a hurry. I'm a toolmaker, and chose not to mess with it.
If I had it do do all over, I would take a crack at it.
It was a 5inch sport barrel and since it is more valuable, I chose not to take the risk. Good luck.

 

[PaperPatched]

Before you remove material from the spot in your photo check to see that the barrel fits low enough on the frame to at least approximately center the extractor in its groove. And that the feed ramp fit to the frame is close to that of an original barrel. I bought a new barrel from S&W and it initially would not fit on the gun never mind lock down. Looking back, I should probably have had the barrel fitted at the factory for it was a long hard road of filing and stoning. But ended up as good as the 1975 barrel on the 1975 gun. I've since bought two other barrels and they fit fine. I had assumed my gun was a bit out of spec, but now think it was that particular barrel. Search past posts here and on RimfireCentral and you will find more information.

 

[A-37]

Thanks for the info.

PaperPatched, I posted the question on Rimfire, too. The extractor line-up is right on center.

Advice on Model 41 barrel - RimfireCentral.com Forums

 

[civil1977]

When removing metal, go slow and keep testing the fit.

Keep in mind that the locking pawl mechanism in the frame is spring loaded so there is some "forgiveness" between barrels on the same frame. Its a very good design.

 

[A-37]

Fitting

I decided to fit the Model 41 barrel after thinking about all the force put on the trigger guard hinge pin. I cleaned the ramp with acetone then applied some Magic Marker. I used a very fine cut jeweler's file, the kind with a tapered face leading to a fairly sharp edge so as not to take any metal from the upper side of the "V". I filed off the Marker then fit the barrel to the frame. Did this about ten times until the new barrel clamps in just like the old one does.

Thanks for all the tips.

 

[gdauth]

I had a similar problem on a brand new PC Model 41. I solved the problem with some Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil. Sprayed the barrel latch area, let it set for a few hours then I locked and unlocked the barrel several times. After about 5 or 6 cycles and a couple of additional shots of oil, it began to work just fine. The oil comes in a spray can and looks a little bit like a foam.

Good luck and enjoy the 41!