Smith & Wesson Model 41: The Gold Standard in Rimfire Precision

Welcome to the pinnacle of rimfire pistol engineering: the Smith & Wesson Model 41. For decades, this iconic firearm has set the gold standard for precision, reliability, and competitive excellence in the .22 Long Rifle category. If you're a serious target shooter, a competitive marksman aiming for national titles, or a discerning collector seeking a truly elite firearm, the Model 41 isn't just a pistol; it's a legacy of accuracy and a testament to superior craftsmanship.

Are you searching for the best .22 target pistol to elevate your performance? Do you want to understand what makes a rimfire firearm truly exceptional for competitive shooting? The Smith & Wesson Model 41 is the definitive answer, renowned globally as one of the finest .22 LR target pistols ever manufactured. Its design addresses the critical needs of precision shooters: unparalleled accuracy, consistent performance, and an ergonomic interface that allows the shooter to fully concentrate on their technique.

A Heritage of Unrivaled Precision

The Smith & Wesson Model 41 holds a storied place in the annals of competitive shooting. It's not uncommon to find this pistol gracing the firing lines of national championships and Olympic trials, wielded by athletes who demand absolute perfection from their equipment. Its reputation is built on an unwavering commitment to accuracy, making it the preferred choice for disciplines like Bullseye shooting, formal target practice, and precision training. The Model 41 is more than a tool; it's a partner in the pursuit of perfection, designed to help shooters consistently achieve tighter groups and higher scores.

What sets the Model 41 apart from other rimfire pistols? It begins with its meticulously engineered components and thoughtful design. Every aspect, from the barrel to the trigger, is optimized for one purpose: surgical precision. This is a firearm built not just to shoot, but to hit exactly where you aim, shot after shot, year after year. For those who invest countless hours refining their technique, the Model 41 provides the consistent foundation necessary to translate skill into tangible results on the target.

Key Features Engineered for Excellence

The Model 41's legendary accuracy is a direct result of its carefully selected and integrated features:

• Precision, Button-Rifled Barrel: At the heart of the Model 41's accuracy lies its button-rifled barrel. This advanced manufacturing process ensures an exceptionally consistent bore diameter and precise rifling twist, critical for stabilizing the bullet and minimizing variations in flight. The result is unparalleled consistency in bullet trajectory, allowing for minute-of-angle accuracy directly out of the box. This level of barrel quality is typically found in high-end bolt-action rifles, making its inclusion in a rimfire pistol a testament to the Model 41's premium status. The superior bore uniformity means less bullet deformation and a truer flight path, essential for punching ragged holes in paper targets at extended distances.
• Micrometer Click Adjustable Target Rear Sight with Undercut Partridge Front Sight: The sighting system on the Model 41 is designed for fine-tuning and optimal target acquisition. The micrometer click adjustable rear sight allows for precise, repeatable adjustments for both windage and elevation, enabling shooters to zero their pistol with exacting accuracy for different distances or ammunition types. Each click provides a minute change, giving the shooter complete control over their point of impact. The undercut Partridge front sight provides a crisp, clear sight picture, minimizing glare and ensuring a sharp visual reference against the target. This combination is preferred by competitive shooters for its ability to provide a consistent and precise aiming point, crucial for maintaining tight groups.
• Ergonomic Checkered Target Grips: A proper grip is fundamental to consistent accuracy. The Model 41 features custom wood target grips that are ergonomically designed to provide a natural, comfortable, and secure hold. The checkered surface ensures a firm purchase, preventing slippage even during extended shooting sessions. These grips are shaped to fill the hand, promoting proper wrist alignment and reducing fatigue, which is vital for maintaining focus and stability throughout a competition or practice session. The thoughtful design of these grips minimizes muscle tension, allowing for a more relaxed and controlled trigger pull.
• Switch-Barrel Design Allows Both 5.5" and 7" Barrels on One Frame: Versatility is a hallmark of the Model 41. Its innovative switch-barrel design allows users to easily interchange between a 5.5-inch and a 7-inch barrel on the same frame. This adaptability is invaluable for competitive shooters who might prefer a shorter, quicker handling barrel for certain stages or a longer barrel for maximum sight radius and stability in other scenarios. This feature effectively gives you two pistols in one, optimizing the firearm for various shooting disciplines and personal preferences without the need to purchase a separate gun. The quick-change mechanism is secure and repeatable, ensuring consistent zeroing with each barrel swap.
• Crisp Target Trigger Factory Set at 2.75 to 3.25 lbs. with User Adjustable Trigger Stop: The trigger is the most critical interface between the shooter and the firearm. The Model 41 boasts a match-grade trigger, factory-set to a light and consistent pull weight between 2.75 and 3.25 pounds. This crisp, clean break minimizes shooter-induced movement, directly contributing to tighter groups. Furthermore, it features a user-adjustable trigger stop, which eliminates overtravel after the shot breaks. This prevents unnecessary movement of the pistol post-firing, allowing the shooter to maintain their sight picture and prepare for the next shot more quickly and efficiently. A refined trigger system is a cornerstone of precision shooting, and the Model 41 delivers on this promise with excellence.

Detailed Specifications: The Engineering Behind the Performance

Understanding the specifications of the Model 41 further illuminates its design philosophy and superior capabilities:

• Model: 41 – The name itself is synonymous with rimfire precision.
• Caliber: .22 LR – The ubiquitous and economical .22 Long Rifle cartridge, perfect for high-volume practice without breaking the bank, while still offering exceptional accuracy potential in a finely tuned platform.
• Capacity: 10+1 Rounds – Standard capacity for competition, allowing for ample rounds per magazine while adhering to common rule sets. The pistol comes with two 10-round magazines, ensuring you're ready for extended shooting sessions.
• Action: Single Action – A single-action only design ensures a consistent, lighter trigger pull, which is crucial for precision target shooting where every milligram of pull weight and consistent break matters.
• Barrel Length: 5.5" / 13.9 cm (and optionally 7") – The 5.5-inch barrel offers a balanced feel, excellent handling, and superb accuracy, ideal for a wide range of target shooting applications. The availability of a 7-inch barrel offers extended sight radius and greater stability for specific competitive demands.
• Front Sight: Removable – Allows for potential customization or replacement if a shooter desires a different sight picture, although the standard undercut Partridge is highly effective.
• Rear Sight: Adjustable – The micrometer click adjustable rear sight is central to its precision capabilities.
• Overall Length: 10.5" / 26.7 cm (with 5.5" barrel) – A well-balanced length that contributes to stability without being overly cumbersome.
• Weight: 41 oz / 1,162.4 g – The substantial weight helps in mitigating recoil, providing a stable platform, and reducing muzzle flip, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and maintaining sight alignment. This heft indicates the quality of materials and robust construction.
• Grip: Custom Wood Target – The bespoke wooden grips are not merely aesthetic; they are ergonomically contoured for maximum control and comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
• Frame Size: Full Size – Provides a substantial feel in hand, contributing to stability and a comfortable grip for shooters of various hand sizes.
• Frame Material: Carbon Steel – Chosen for its durability, strength, and ability to provide a solid foundation for the precise internal components, ensuring long-term reliability and accuracy.
• Cylinder Material: Carbon Steel – Similar to the frame, carbon steel ensures robustness and longevity, contributing to the pistol's overall durability.
• Finish: Blue – The classic blued finish not only provides corrosion resistance but also imparts a timeless, elegant aesthetic befitting a high-end target pistol.
• Other Features: External Thumb Safety – A convenient and intuitive safety mechanism for secure handling and storage. Integral Picatinny-Style Rail – This modern addition allows for the easy attachment of optics, such as red dot sights or small scopes, which can further enhance accuracy and target acquisition, especially for shooters with specific vision requirements or competitive rules that allow optics.
• Purpose: Collector's Interest, Recreational, Competitive – The Model 41 transcends mere utility. It is a highly sought-after piece for collectors due to its historical significance and enduring design. For recreational shooters, it offers an unparalleled experience of precision and enjoyment. And for competitors, it remains a top-tier instrument for achieving peak performance.

Who Should Own a Smith & Wesson Model 41?

The Model 41 is a definitive choice for several categories of individuals:

• Competitive Shooters: If your goal is to compete in Bullseye, rimfire leagues, or precision shooting events, the Model 41 provides the consistent accuracy and features necessary to gain a significant edge over the competition. Its reliability and finely tuned trigger system allow you to focus on your fundamentals without equipment concerns.
• Serious Recreational Shooters: For those who simply enjoy the art of shooting and seek to continually improve their marksmanship, the Model 41 offers an incredibly rewarding experience. Its precision allows you to truly gauge your skill and push your limits on the range.
• Firearm Collectors: Given its iconic status, enduring legacy, and exceptional quality, the Model 41 is a prized addition to any serious firearm collection. It represents a significant piece of American firearm manufacturing history and a benchmark in target pistol design.
• New Shooters Committed to Fundamentals: While a high-end pistol, the Model 41 can be an excellent choice for a new shooter who is serious about learning proper technique from the outset. Its forgiving nature (low recoil) combined with its inherent accuracy helps new shooters see immediate positive results, fostering confidence and a passion for the sport.

Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Longevity

The Smith & Wesson Model 41 is built to last a lifetime and beyond, provided it receives proper care. Regular cleaning of the bore, action, and magazines, along with appropriate lubrication, will ensure its continued precision and reliable operation. Its robust carbon steel construction is designed for extensive use, making it a true workhorse on the range. The availability of parts and the enduring popularity of the Model 41 mean that this pistol is a long-term investment in your shooting passion.

For those ready to experience the gold standard in rimfire precision, the Smith & Wesson Model 41 (UPC: 022188780314, SKU: 178031) is available at DEGuns. We are committed to providing access to the finest firearms, ensuring you receive an authentic and high-quality product that will serve your competitive, recreational, or collecting needs for years to come. Elevate your shooting game with a pistol that champions have trusted for generations.

Feature	Detail	Benefit
Model	Smith & Wesson Model 41	Iconic, competition-proven design.
Caliber	.22 LR	Economical, low recoil, high precision.
Barrel Length Options	5.5" / 7" (Switch-Barrel)	Versatility for different shooting disciplines.
Trigger Pull	2.75 - 3.25 lbs (Factory Set)	Crisp, light break for enhanced accuracy.
Weight	41 oz / 1,162.4 g	Stable platform, reduces recoil and muzzle flip.
UPC	022188780314	Unique product identifier.