Farewell to a Legend: Smith & Wesson Model 41 Production Ends

Every shooter has that one gun they hold in almost mythical regard. For many rimfire fans, that gun is the Smith & Wesson Model 41. Since 1957, the 41 has been a benchmark for accuracy, craftsmanship and shooting pleasure in a .22 pistol. 

Unfortunately, after nearly 70 years, Smith & Wesson has announced the end of Model 41 production. This marks the close of a remarkable chapter in American handgun history—and a wake-up call for anyone who’s ever wanted one. 

S&W Model 41: Built for Shooters

The Model 41 was never just a plinker. Born in the post-WWII era, the pistol came out of a decade of development and hit the market in 1957. Its blowback design paired with a fixed barrel gave it match-grade accuracy right out of the box. Add in the 1911-style grip angle and a trigger that breaks like glass, and you had a gun that seemed to almost shoot itself.

It quickly became a bullseye competition favorite. The long 7-inch barrels, heavy 5.5-inch options and later 6-inch versions gave shooters choices for balance and precision. For decades, it wasn’t uncommon to see a Model 41 owning the firing line at matches. This was especially the case since the barrels could be easily swapped out. 

Variants, Oddballs, Collectibles

Over the years, Smith & Wesson experimented. The Model 41-1 in .22 Short was made in tiny numbers for rapid-fire competition. The Model 46 was a stripped-down variant that saw limited Air Force service. Neither lasted long, but both now command collector interest.

Meanwhile, the flagship 41 kept evolving—new stocks, a variety of barrel lengths and eventually optics-ready configurations. Special runs included the 50th Anniversary edition in 2007 and Performance Center models.

This isn’t the first time the Model 41 disappeared. In 1992, Smith & Wesson stopped production, only to bring it back two years later after demand surged. That moment proved the pistol’s worth—prices spiked, shooters clamored and the company wisely revived it.

This time feels different. With rising production costs, a crowded rimfire market and a shift toward polymer-framed pistols, the Model 41 simply doesn’t fit today’s volume-driven strategy. Ending production is a business move—but it leaves shooters with a hole that no other .22 quite fills.

What It Means for Shooters and Collectors

The Model 41 was never cheap, and it’s about to get more expensive. Current models already retail around $2,000. Once the last factory-fresh guns are gone, prices in the secondary market will climb fast. Pre-78 bright-blue examples and rare variants like the 41-1 are already collectible. Now, even standard shooters will command a premium.

The Smith & Wesson Model 41 wasn’t just another .22 pistol—it was the .22 pistol. For almost 70 years, it set the standard for accuracy and quality in a rimfire handgun. Its end marks the loss of a true classic, the kind we may never see built the same way again.

If you’ve ever wanted a Model 41, this is your last chance. Buy one now, while there are still a few in cases at gun shops. Because once they’re gone, they’ll be gone for good—and you’ll be left wishing you hadn’t waited.

Model 41 Buyer’s Guide

With production of the Model 41 officially ending, prices are only going one direction—up. Whether you’re buying for shooting or collecting, here’s what to look for:

Early Production (1957–1978)

• Why they matter: These are the classic “bright blue” pistols with the deep polish that collectors drool over.
• Features to spot: 7 3/8-inch barrel with muzzle brake, cocking indicator on the slide, original checkered walnut stocks.
• Value: Already high and only climbing. Expect premiums for all-original examples with box and papers.

The Oddballs

• Model 41-1 (.22 Short): Made for Olympic-style rapid fire. Only around 1,000 produced. Ultra-rare, priced accordingly.
• Model 46: The budget sibling. Less refined but collectible now, especially Air Force-marked examples.

The Comeback Guns (1994–2000s)

• Why they matter: Represent the revival after the 1992 pause. Most came with laminated grips and barrels drilled/tapped for optics.
• Shooter’s choice: These are great buys for those who want to actually put rounds through one without babying a safe queen.

Special Editions

• 50th Anniversary (2007): Engraved and high-polish models that are instant collectibles.
• Performance Center: Tuned triggers, enhanced barrels and modern touches. Built for competition and premium buyers.

Current Production 

• Why you should care: The last ones off the line will be instant “end of an era” guns. Buy one new, keep the paperwork and hold a piece of history.

Pro Tips for Buyers

• Condition is king: Original bluing, matching parts and unaltered stocks drive collector value.
• Barrels are swappable: Many shooters own multiple barrels—shorter heavy barrels for balance, longer for competition.
• Magazines matter: Originals can be tricky to find. A pistol with extra factory mags adds real value.
• Shoot or collect? If you want a shooter, don’t pay collector premiums. Grab a 1990s or newer model. If you’re investing, chase the early high-polish guns or rare 41-1 variants.

Video: Smith & Wesson Innovations Through the Years

Whether you’re after a safe queen or a bullseye workhorse, don’t wait. The Model 41 is moving from “classic” to “out of production,” and that means prices will never be lower.

By Paul Rackley, GunBroker Editor