S&W Model 46 (41)

[PatMcD]

I just traded into a S&W 46. I'd never heard of it, but thought it looked exactly like a 41. Well, it kind of is. Their "bargain" version of the 41 from what I am reading.
Came with the 5-1/2" target barrel and a 5" field barrel. 2 mags.

2 questions:
1. can someone date it from the serial number 231XX
2. are the barrels and other parts interchangeable with the 41?

 

[Greg Derr]

All the parts are the same, just less surface finish and plastic grips. Maybe some athe small cosmetic differences.

 

[PatMcD]

Well, I just figured out the 5-1/2" barrel is actually from a 41, and the 5" is the original 46 barrel. There is a small relief cut along where the slide rides on the 41's.
Also found out you can put a 41 barrel on a 46, but not a 46 on a 41 with out doing a little mill work or using a 46 slide on your 41 pistol.

Shoots good.