model 46

[cobo]

I purchased a model 46 a while back i was just wondering
what the main differences were between it and the 41
Was also wondering if any parts are interchangeable.

 

[824tsv]

Hello there,
This is the description from the Standard Catalog of S&W 3rd Edition:
"Similar in appearance to the Model 41 without the fine blue finish or the extensive machining, most noticeable by square cuts rather than radiused corners. Also missing are a number of parts that are normally serrated on the Model 41. No muzzle brake or cocking indicator, red nylon grips. The slide/barrel assembly of this model can interchange with that of the Model 41 but not the reverse."

Here's a pic of mine. It has the 7" barrel with barrel weight and it's a late production piece from 1968.

Please post a pic of yours. They are quite scarce up here, and it would appear we possibly live somewhat close to each other.
Robert

 

[cobo]

pic


Here's the pic of mine.Its not as nice as your gun it came with target grips i didn't like and replaced with 41 grips
I'm getting a little older and had to add the red dot so i could
hit something

 

[jmark1651]

If those shoot as well as the model 41, they would be keepers. i love shooting model 41's. i believe they set the standard for others to reach for. Great looking pistols that you two have.

 

[824tsv]

Thats a nice example you have, thanks for posting the pic.

 

[moosedog]

I wish I would not have sold mine. It shot as good or better than most 41s i've owned.

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

824TSV, the 46 slide and bbl can switch to the 41 frame AND Vise Versa. The 46 bbl will not fit on the 41 frame with the 41 slide due to a lack of slide rail cut in the 46 bbl. The 41 bbl on the 46 frame with the 46 slide is ugly (due to the gap) but functional.

Other differences - the 46 can use the 3 piece underbarrel weight but the 41 is not set up to accept the 46 1 pc underbbl weight. The 46 does not have the fingergroove that the 41 (after about 11000) has. The signifigant difference between the two is the weakness of the 46 slide rail connection to the slide body on the 46, especially the earlier (under 25000 generally) slides with a 90% cut vs the later radiused cut - absolutely std velocity ammo ONLY.

Many parts are interchangable. Some later 46s were shipped with wood grips identical to the 41s. An interesting note is that the 46 5.5" bull bbl is very similar to the 441 bbl except for the rail cut and finish.

 

[824tsv]

Thanks for the added info Tom, I was quoting the description of the Model 46 in the Standard Catalog as I wasn't totally sure of all the differences. Your knowledge of these pistols is amazing, and I have a lot to learn.

 

[Barrie]

I live in Onatario Canada and have a 46 also. Had it before my 41 and it does shoot as good as my 41. I consider myself very lucky to have one of each as they both go to the range together every week. Can't really say which is my backup gun as both usually get used.

 

[DesertFox]

I'm in the club with a Model 46 myself. I'll shoot a some pics to post here when I have a chance.

 

[Barrie]

I would post pics as well but am No good at doing it period. Just can't seem to get the hang of it at all.