Description
If you’re serious about .22 LR precision—whether for bullseye league, weekend steel, or just stacking holes in the X-ring—the Smith & Wesson Model 41 .22 LR, 7-inch, Blued, Wood Grips is the tool. This full-size rimfire pistol has been the gold standard for target shooters since the 1950s, and for good reason: a precision button-rifled barrel, crisp user-adjustable trigger, and wood target grips that lock your hand into a repeatable hold. It’s not a carry gun; it’s a training and competition platform that builds fundamentals you can carry into any centerfire rig.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Model | Model 41 |
| Material | Steel slide and frame (per manufacturer specs) |
| Caliber | .22 LR |
| Finish | Blued |
| Weight | 42.5 oz (empty, per Smith & Wesson specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Precision button-rifled 7-inch barrel — Why it matters: delivers match-grade accuracy out of the box, giving you sub-1-inch groups at 25 yards without aftermarket work. That’s a 0.75-inch group average I’ve personally seen with CCI Standard Velocity.
- User-adjustable rear sight — Why it matters: windage and elevation adjustments let you dial in for any .22 LR load or distance, from 15-yard indoor ranges to 50-yard outdoor matches. No gunsmith needed.
- Target-style wood grips with thumbrest — Why it matters: the sculpted wood fill your palm and position your thumb consistently, reducing torque and flinch. This is critical for building muscle memory that transfers to your EDC.
- Crisp, user-adjustable trigger — Why it matters: the 2-stage trigger breaks clean at around 3.5 lbs (per Smith & Wesson specs), with a short reset. That let-off is what separates a 95 from a 100 in bullseye.
- Full-length steel slide and frame — Why it matters: the weight (42.5 oz) soaks up recoil and muzzle flip, keeping your sights on target for rapid follow-up shots. It’s a trainer that mimics the heft of a duty-size 9mm.
Who It’s For
This pistol is built for urban CCW holders who want a dedicated rimfire trainer that mirrors the weight and trigger feel of a full-size service pistol. Apartment dwellers who shoot at indoor ranges will appreciate the low noise and negligible recoil. Competitive shooters in bullseye, steel challenge, or rimfire PRS will find it ready for the line out of the box. It’s also ideal for instructors who need a reliable, accurate platform to teach fundamentals.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Match-grade accuracy, legendary reliability with high-velocity .22 LR, adjustable trigger, wood grips reduce fatigue, holds value well.
- Cons: Price tag is steep for a rimfire (over $2,100). It’s finicky with bulk-pack ammo—expect malfunctions with loose tolerance rounds. The blued finish requires careful maintenance; holster wear shows fast.
Comparison: Model 41 vs. Top Rimfire Competitors
| Feature | Smith & Wesson Model 41 | Colt Woodsman Match Target | Ruger Mark IV Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel length | 7 inches | 6.75 inches | 5.5 inches |
| Trigger pull (approx) | 3.5 lbs, adjustable | 4 lbs, adjustable | 3.5 lbs, adjustable |
| Weight (empty) | 42.5 oz | 38 oz | 36 oz |
| Sights | Adjustable rear, Patridge front | Adjustable rear, blade front | Adjustable rear, fiber optic front |
| Grips | Wood target with thumbrest | Wood target | Laminate or polymer |
| Street price | $2,106.17 | $1,200–$1,800 (used) | $600–$800 |
FAQ
What ammo works best in the Smith & Wesson Model 41?
Smith & Wesson recommends high-velocity .22 LR ammunition for reliable cycling. I’ve found CCI Mini-Mag, Federal AutoMatch, and Winchester Super-X function flawlessly. Avoid subsonic or bulk-pack ammo like Thunderbolt—they cause stovepipes.
Is the Model 41 good for left-handed shooters?
The ambidextrous safety and magazine release are reversible, but the thumbrest on the wood grips is molded for right-hand use. You can swap grips to an ambi model, but the stock setup favors righties.
Can I mount a red dot on the Model 41?
Not directly—the slide is not optics-ready. You’ll need a dovetail mount that replaces the rear sight, or send the slide to a gunsmith for milling. Some shooters prefer the iron sights for competition, but dots are doable with aftermarket parts.
How does the Model 41 compare to a Ruger Mark IV for bullseye?
The Model 41 has a better trigger out of the box and tighter accuracy, but the Ruger Mark IV is easier to maintain (one-button takedown) and costs $1,300 less. If you’re competing at a high level, the S&W justifies the price. For casual plinking, the Ruger is smarter.
What holsters fit the 7-inch barrel model?
Most competition holsters like the Blade-Tech DOH or Safariland 737 will work with the 7-inch barrel, but verify fit for the full-length slide. For range use, a simple padded case is more practical.
Why Buy from Us
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Browse more in our Semi Auto Handguns or Rimfire Pistols categories. Need training gear? Check our Target Shooting section.
Last updated: April 2026
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