Ammo question: S&W 41

by Hoot @, Diversityville, Liberal-sota, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 08:45 (4366 days ago)

I have done a couple of 'net searches but cannot seem to turn up any definite answer. Does the S&W M-41 require Standard Velocity ammo? S/N: A132xxx if it matters.

I'll certainly give it a try if only to see how it shoots but there seems to be a mixed bag out there regarding "beating up" the gun. The on-line manual is only for current production and doesn't really address the question. I have not contacted Smith yet but I expect they know. ;-)

Also would be interested in talking if you happened to have a set of grip panels gathering dust.

Thanks!

Ammo question: S&W 41

by JD, Western Washington, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 09:34 (4366 days ago) @ Hoot

I use only standard velocity ammo through my model 41. First off, it shoots and functions better in mine. I'm sure that it can handle a fair amount of high velocity ammo, but why? It was made specifically as a match pistol to shoot standard velocity match ammo. Mine is an older model 41 with the cocking indicator, and the manual that came with it specified that only standard velocity ammo should be used. I shoot my 41 more than all my other handguns combined. High velocity ammo imparts higher velocity to the slide, and over time there is no way that it won't cause an effect. I'm a structural engineer and also have fair amount of experience in aircraft parts and material testing, and I've seen the effects of, what would be to most people, small increases in loads and velocities on structures and tools. I can tell you that even small increases in loads and stresses can have large effects on the longevity of a tool or structure. Model 41's are great pistols with extremely good workmanship and precision, not to mention expensive and relatively hard to find. To me using high velocity ammo in a 41 is kind of like using a precision torque wrench as a hammer..., Will it work, yes of course, is it a smart thing to do, no....

With care and standard velocity ammo, my kids and grand kids will be shooting my model 41 long after I'm gone, and I like that idea........

Just my two cents.....
JD

Thanks for that info JD.

by Jimmy P., Florida Panhandle, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 12:17 (4366 days ago) @ JD

It's good to know the manual specifies standard vel. ammo. I got my 41 used and it didn't have the manual.

Jimmy P.

Mine was an old manual.......

by JD, Western Washington, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 13:50 (4366 days ago) @ Jimmy P.

My model 41 is probably from the 1960's.... Maybe the newer ones are different... Maybe I'll get around to call S&W and ask them...

The model 41 is such an elegant and finely made handgun, that is capable of shooting REALLY small groups. I really want keep it perking along forever.....

Ammo question: S&W 41

by bmize, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 10:43 (4366 days ago) @ Hoot

BJ Snow told me years ago, standard vel only. Like JD said why add the wear and tear.
Mine likes CCI standard vel. and Wolf MT/SK standard Plus.

I found some nice Laminated grips on GB.

ATB

Ammo question: S&W 41

by Charles, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 11:53 (4366 days ago) @ Hoot

A couple of guys that shoot in our match use those things and use the same bulk HV 22 ammo as the rest of us.

Ammo question: S&W 41

by BJ Snow @, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 16:42 (4366 days ago) @ Hoot

Hoot,
Contact me at your convenience and leisure. I think I have some spare M41 grips somewhere around here, also barrels, slides and internal parts. Not really anxious to part with any of the stuff, but might be able to help a friend. Let me know what you need, see if I have it on hand. You can call me at 706-576-4390 if you'd rather. Probably better than waiting for me to type on this little IPhone keyboard.
BJS

Thank you BJ

by Hoot @, Diversityville, Liberal-sota, Friday, December 07, 2012, 06:52 (4364 days ago) @ BJ Snow

I will see if I can give you a shout soon.

Ammo question: S&W 41

by lee e. jurras @, Hagerman,NM, Wednesday, December 05, 2012, 19:58 (4366 days ago) @ Hoot

Hoot, nearly all target 22's are built for match grade (Std Vel)as that is generally the most accurate.About the time the Mod 41 came out the High Standard line pretty much dominated the rimfire scene. The mod 41 came alomg and offered an alternative. Nearly all 22 pistols could fire the "HS version but shooters found that additional stress on internal parts.But the price of 41's has gone out of sight like most all discontinued guns.There are plenty of plinkers on the market that are much cheaper to shoot the HS stuff. Save that 41 from wear and tear and use it for matches. Or sell it to a match shooter and by 3 Rugers. :-D

Thank you Sir.

by Hoot @, Diversityville, Liberal-sota, Friday, December 07, 2012, 06:54 (4364 days ago) @ lee e. jurras

I appreciate your thoughts.

I am attempting to become a better "match shooter" and already have 3 Rugers. ;-)

Thanks all!

by Hoot @, Diversityville, Liberal-sota, Friday, December 07, 2012, 06:56 (4364 days ago) @ Hoot

I have a small selection of SV in the pile. I'll give it a whirl.

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