SMITH & WESSON Model 41 1957 Documented First-Year Production

Seller Description For This Firearm

1957 Smith & Wesson Model 41 - First Year Production - Factory Letter Included

Offered here is a documented first-year production Smith & Wesson Model 41, shipped in 1957, the inaugural year of commercial production for one of the most respected American .22 LR target pistols ever produced. This pistol is serial number 3883 and includes official documentation from Smith & Wesson in the form of a Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation factory letter, which is included with the firearm. The letter confirms shipment on December 24, 1957 to S.G. Keep Wholesale Company in Miami, Florida and documents the pistol’s original factory configuration at time of shipment.

According to the factory letter, this pistol originally shipped with a 7 3/8 inch barrel, blued finish, and walnut target stocks. The pistol is now fitted with a 5.5 inch factory Model 41 barrel, which is period-correct, original Smith & Wesson manufacture, and appropriate to the era of the pistol. The original 7 3/8 inch barrel referenced in the factory letter is not included. This distinction is disclosed clearly and accurately for collector transparency.

The Model 41 is widely regarded as one of the finest American-made rimfire target pistols ever built, known for its superb balance, accuracy, and trigger quality. 1957 represents the first year of commercial Model 41 production, and pistols documented to that year are, by definition, first-year production examples, making them especially desirable among collectors.

This pistol is best graded as Very Good overall condition, while being excellent for its age. The original blued finish presents well and shows honest signs of careful use over time, including light surface scratches and visible surface patina markings near the beavertail area by the grip. The original walnut target stocks show normal handling marks consistent with age. All markings remain clear and correct, and there is no evidence of refinishing, restoration, or abuse. The pistol retains its originality and mechanical integrity.

Included with the pistol are nine magazines, a high-quality custom leather holster, and a modern nylon magazine pouch. The magazine count is a meaningful value addition, particularly for an early Model 41, as original magazines are increasingly difficult to acquire in quantity. This is an honest, factory-documented early Model 41 offered with full disclosure regarding configuration, making it suitable for both the informed collector and the serious shooter who appreciates historically significant firearms. All used firearms are sold “as is,” with no warranties, expressed or implied.

What makes this Model 41 stand out:
• Documented 1957 first-year commercial production
• Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation factory letter included
• Early serial number with strong collector appeal
• Factory-correct, period-appropriate 5.5 inch Smith & Wesson barrel installed
• Original 7 3/8 inch barrel referenced in the letter is not included
• Very Good condition that is excellent for a 1957 pistol
• Includes nine magazines plus leather holster

UPC	ECOM00513736
Action	SEMI AUTOMATIC
Barrel Length	5.5" BARREL
Caliber	.22 LR
Capacity	10 ROUNDS
Finish	WALNUT, BLUED

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