Newbee question Mod 41 - A "pin" is sticking out

[sascphlounge]

Now when I have examined my little baby more in detail I can see a pin sticking out on the backside like the one seen on image below:

http://www.rbsiii.com/collection/pistols/S&W_41/A139228/slide_l.jpg

When I look around on different images I do not see this pin on all - Is this connected to which model it is?
No matter what - Anyone out there who can enlight me

 

[sceva]

As has been said, that is a cocking indicator and shows the internal hammer is cocked.

They were in the early Mod 41's up to the mid to late 1970's then were eliminated as unnecessary.

 

[Bullet Bob]

As armorer951 said it is an indication that the gun is cocked. It is also an indication of the years of manufacture, as that feature was present from the 41's inception in 1957 until 1978, when the indicator was discontinued.

Since people generally like earlier guns, many feel yours with the cocking indicator is more desirable. Myself, I go on a gun-by-gun basis, but I'm no collector.

Edited to add - I'm one slowwwwww typist.

 

[Barrie]

They are a reliable safety device as you always know when your gun is loaded. I personally like shooting with that option on my target guns.

 

[sascphlounge]

Thanx.
I love this forum

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[Inusuit]

They are a reliable safety device as you always know when your gun is loaded. I personally like shooting with that option on my target guns.

Does it indicate the gun is loaded, or only that it's cocked?

 

[armorer951]

It only indicates that the gun is cocked.

 

[Barrie]

Armorer951 is totally correct in his statement. Every time you pull the slide back and release it the pin should be sticking out to verify its cocked. Generally you have placed the loaded mag in the gun and are on the firing line as well. Your point of aim should be strickly down range only.