Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 41 Lightweight Sporter

Serial Number: 18081

Year of Manufacture: 1959 -1960 / C&R

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Single Action, Detachable Magazine Fed, Semi-Auto Pistol

Barrel Length: 5"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an patridge blade integral to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch adjustable for windage and elevation pinned to the barrel “tail” which continues over the slide to the rear of the firearm. The top of the barrel is matte finished with a line of fine checkering for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood panels with a palm rest and thumb shelves. There are some light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp with faint peak wear. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: Cocking indicator located on rear of frame below the slide. The action functions correctly. The single action is crisp. The magazine slides into position with no issue and there is a magazine disconnect safety. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included are two 10 round magazines. The springs are strong and the followers are smooth. Overall, the magazines rate in Very Good-Fine condition.

Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 41 has been one of the benchmark American rimfire target pistols since its introduction in 1957, earning a reputation for excellent accuracy, crisp single-action triggers, refined ergonomics, and superb commercial fit and finish. This example is especially desirable as a Lightweight Sporter variant with its 5” barrel and early cocking indicator

Condition is a major strength here. The pistol retains about 99% of its original blue finish, with only light handling evidence, sharp markings, sharp screw heads, and excellent grips showing only faint peak wear. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 10/10 in this writer’s opinion, making this pistol as appealing mechanically as it is cosmetically. The trigger is crisp, the action is smooth, and the included magazines remain in solid Very Good-Fine condition.

Collectors will appreciate the scarce Lightweight Sporter configuration, early production features, strong original condition, and C&R eligibility. Shooters will appreciate that this is still one of the finest production .22 LR target pistols ever offered, suitable for precision rimfire work, bullseye-style shooting, or simply enjoying a top-tier Smith & Wesson classic. Whether destined for a Smith & Wesson collection or the range, this Model 41 is a standout example of one of the company’s most respected target pistols.