The Smith & Wesson Model 41 is a classic American rimfire target pistol. Beautifully crafted, the Model 41 boasts a superb trigger, comfortable grip, and excellent accuracy. New or used, a Model 41 is a fine addition to any firearms collection. We’ve shot a few Model 41s, and they will spoil you if you go back to a lesser rimfire pistol. First released commercially in in 1957, a special 50th Anniversary Model (shown above top) came out in 2007 (hitting the market in 2008). Perhaps it should have been named the 60th Anniversary edition, as the first prototypes of the Model 41 were crafted way back in 1947. READ American Rifleman article about Model 41.
The Model 41 is one of those classic American designs that has stood the test of time. Many feel the Model 41 represents the apex of American .22 LR pistol design, much like the Colt Python is the “crown jewel” of double-action revolvers. One YouTube poster noted: “After [65] years the Model 41 is still near the top of the game in precision .22s. Very few if any of the current day pistols can match the workmanship, fit, and balance that makes having a Model 41 so enjoyable to own. S&W blew the center out of the 10 Ring with this one when they introduced it and continue to do so today.”
The Stunning 50th Anniversary Edition Model 41
Probably the most sought-after Model 41 is the handsome, machine-engraved 50th Anniversary Model, released in 2007. This was offered in a hardwood, glass-covered case. This would be a prized addition to any gun collection:
The 50th Anniversary Model was machine-engraved with Class A+ coverage, 24 carat gold striping, and special serial number range FYA0001 – FYA0500.
Of course, if you want a superb trigger in a .22 LR semi-auto pistol, look no further than the S&W Model 41. For $2000.00 to $3700.00 you can find the fully engraved, 50th Anniversary Model 41 in presentation case on various auction sights. First released in 2007, the engraved model 41 combines superior accuracy with stunning appearance.
Smith & Wesson Model 41 — An American Classic Rimfire Pistol
The Smith & Wesson Model 41 is an American classic — one of the great, iconic .22 LR target pistols. Accurate, well-balanced and built-to-last, model 41s have been in production for over 50 years. The Model 41 remains one of the most accurate pistols ever produced by Smith & Wesson.
Model 41 photo by Mightymoo01, creative commons released CC BY-SA 3.0.
Beautifully crafted, the Model 41 boasts a superb trigger, comfortable grip, and excellent accuracy. Whether an older classic or a newer model, the S&W Model 41 is something every gun owner would prize for target shooting. And “like new” high-grade models are now appreciating in value!
Smith & Wesson historian Roy Jinks recounts the development of the Model 41: “It was a difficult task to develop a competitive pistol that would meet the various needs of the top shooters. The final design was decided upon in 1956 and the new .22 target pistol was announced in Smith & Wesson’s 1957 Annual Report, stating: ‘Its design includes many advanced features, such as stocks equally suitable for right or left-hand shooters- a clean, crisp, trigger pull that is adjustable to individual preferences. The distribution of weight, together with the angle of the stocks, permits extremely steady off-hand holding. The precise micrometer sights are rigidly mounted on a one piece forged barrel to avoid any possible misalignment even after long usage.’ The handgun featured a 7 3/8-inch barrel equipped with a muzzle brake to help control recoil. The underside of the barrel was grooved to allow the addition of adjustable Olympic Style Barrel Weights. The trigger pull could be adjusted to allow for a 2-pound pull to meet the NRA Gallery Course requirement or increased to 3 pounds to meet the needs of the ISU International rules.
Smith & Wesson Model 41 with two extra slide/barrel assemblies, plus custom holster and mag holders. This sold on Cowan’s Auctions for $2640.00 in 2019.
Sales began in December of 1957 and the Model 41 was first cataloged in 1958. The factory was soon heavily back-ordered and [the Model 41] became the most popular auto-loading pistol offered by the company. In May of 1959 Smith & Wesson introduced a 5-inch lightweight barrel for the handgun to meet the demand of hunters[.] The line of Model 41s was further expanded in September of 1960 with the introduction of the Model 41-1 which fired .22 shorts for the International Rapid Fire Shooters. [I]n August of 1963 the company introduced the 5.5 inch heavy barrel. The last of the major barrel changes occurred in 1965 when the company produced the 5.5-inch heavy barrel with an extendable front sight to provide the shooter a longer sight radius. During the last 50 years the Model 41 has … established many records around the world. Today it is one of the classic target handguns[.]” READ MORE Model 41 History.
Field Test of Current Generation S&W Model 41
So how do modern production Model 41s shoot? Very well indeed, based on the results from popular gun Vlogger 22plinkster. He took a new Model 41 to his test range and tested it for handling and accuracy. Watch the 22plinkster video below:
22plinkster runs of the most popular gun-centric YouTube channels. His videos have been watched by hundreds of thousands of firearms fans. Some of .22 Plinkster’s videos involve trick shots, but he’s actually a very competent marksman who has shot a vast collection of .22 LR/22 WMR pistols and rifles, making him a qualified rimfire expert.
Hickok45’s 30-Year-Old Model 41
Hickok45, a popular YouTube host, has been a fan of the S&W Model 41 since it was first released. In fact, back in 2020, Hickok45 celebrated his 30th year of ownership of this classic American rimfire. In this “Celebrating 30 Years” video, Hickok 45 demonstrates the qualities that have made the Model 41 so popular. He notes that it balances well, has an excellent trigger, and delivers superb accuracy. He observed: “What a great .22 LR pistol!”
Performance Center “Optics-Ready” Model 41
Do you prefer shooting pistols with a modern optic? Well check out the fully “Optics-Ready” S&W Performance Center Model 41. This modernized Model 41 PC has an integral Picatinny Rail mount for optics, plus adjustable target sights with a special skeletonized and removable front blade sight.
The Performance Center Model 41 sports an integral Picatinny-style equipment rail for easy installation of optics. Other standard features include an external thumb safety on the left side of the frame, custom wood target grips, and a blued finish. This full-size, 10-shot .22 LR pistol features a carbon steel frame and slide along with a 5.5-inch barrel. Measuring 10.5 inches in overall length, the Model 41 PC has an unloaded weight of 41 ounces. MSRP is $1763.00.
The S&W Model 41 History from Wikipedia
From Wikipedia: The Smith & Wesson Model 41 is a semi-automatic pistol developed by Smith & Wesson after World War II as a competitive target pistol. It was designed with a 105-degree grip angle, the same as the Colt M1911 pistol, to maintain a consistent grip angle.
Prototype and Production Models
In July 1947, two prototypes, numbered X-41 and X-42, were produced, tested, and improved for the next 10 years. In 1957, the Model 41 was made available to the public for sale when Smith & Wesson produced 679 units. At the end of 1958, they had built 9,875 Model 41 pistols. A lighter 5-inch (130 mm) barrel was offered in 1958 for field use. The Model 41-1 was introduced in 1960 and was chambered in .22 Short for International Rapid Fire competition. Only 1000 were made using light aluminum slides necessary for function with the lower powered .22 Short.
In August 1963, the 5-inch heavy barrel version came into the market. Stoeger’s Shooter’s Bible of 1964 shows a 7 3⁄8″ (190 mm) barrel grooved for Olympic center weights. The cocking indicator and 7 3⁄8″ barrel were dropped in 1978. The 7-inch (180 mm) barrel was introduced in 1978 with no provision for a muzzle brake. A 6-inch (150 mm) barrel was offered for a few months in 1991. In 1992, the Model 41 was dropped from production. In 1994, Smith & Wesson returned it to production as the Model 41 “New Model”.
The Model 41 Military Variant — S&W Model 46
In 1957, Smith & Wesson offered a “no frills” version of the Model 41, designated the Model 46. In 1959, it was selected by the U.S. Air Force for basic marksmanship training. About 4000 units were made in total: 2500 with a 7-inch barrel, 1000 with 5-inch barrels, and 500 with 5.5″ barrels. The pistol lacked the checkering, polished blue finish, and other refinements of the Model 41. It proved to be a commercial failure with consumers who preferred the more costly Model 41, and production ceased in 1966.
What’s old is new again. The metal-framed pistol is making a comeback. Smith & Wesson has just introduced its new M&P9 M2.0 METAL, S&W’s first full-size M&P pistol in an all-metal configuration. Built with a T6 aluminum frame finished in Tungsten Gray Cerakote, this 9mm Luger pistol includes a 4.25″ barrel, M2.0 flat face trigger, and optics-ready slide.
Why go to a metal frame? The T6 Aluminum frame is heavier than polymer. This increases the overall weight of the pistol and lowers the center of gravity considerably. The gun therefore has less perceived recoil (less “snap”) and noticeably less muzzle flip. The new M&P M2.0 METAL is listed at 30.0 oz. unloaded, while the polymer M&P M2.0 is 24.7 oz. unloaded.
New M&P9 M2.0 METAL is 43% More Expensive Than Polymer M&P9 M2.0
The new M&P9 M2.0 METAL has a $899.00 MSRP, making it 43% more expensive than the polymer-framed M&P9 M2.0 which has a $629.00 MSRP. Is the aluminum frame worth the extra money? It depends. With a lower center of gravity and more mass, the M2.0 METAL will definitely be a better “gun games” pistol. But it will also be 5.3 oz. heavier — not so great for all-day carry.
For persons who use their M&P mostly for target work and gun games, the heavier weight and reduced muzzle flip is a plus. Owners may also like the rigidity of the Cerakoted Aluminum frame. S&W has a new enhanced sear for this model, which delivers a “shorter take-up, and cleaner break”. That also should help action pistol competitors.
Full Compatability with Existing M&P9 Magazines and Holsters
The M&P9 M2.0 METAL will accept any M&P9 M2.0 17-round 9mm magazine and will fit any normal M&P9 fullsize compatible holster. Notable features include enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger break, an optics-ready slide, and new “flat face” trigger.
M&P9 M2.0 METAL FEATURES
T6 Aluminum Frame with Tungsten Gray Cerakote® Finish
Optics-Ready pistol slide has mounting recess for red dots
Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts: S, M, ML, L
Textured polymer front strap
Wide slide stop and reversible magazine release
M2.0 flat face trigger for consistent finger placement
Forward slide serrations and Picatinny-style frame rail
Enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger let-off
Fits all standard M&P9 compatible holsters
Accepts any 17-round 9mm M2.0™ magazine
Comes with two 17-round magazines.
Jerry Miculek Tests New M&P9 M2.0 Metal Pistol — Says It Shows Exceptional Accuracy
In response to an unprecedented, partisan attack on the firearm industry, lead by the Democratic administration in Washington, Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. President & CEO Mark Smith responded this week with the following statement:
“A number of politicians and their lobbying partners in the media have recently sought to disparage Smith & Wesson. Some have had the audacity to suggest that after they have vilified, undermined and defunded law enforcement for years, supported prosecutors who refuse to hold criminals accountable for their actions, overseen the decay of our country’s mental health infrastructure, and generally promoted a culture of lawlessness, Smith & Wesson and other firearm manufacturers are somehow responsible for the crime wave that has predictably resulted from these destructive policies. But they are the ones to blame for the surge in violence and lawlessness, and they seek to avoid any responsibility for the crisis of violence they have created by attempting to shift the blame to Smith & Wesson, other firearm manufacturers and law-abiding gun owners.
It is no surprise that the cities suffering most from violent crime are the very same cities that have promoted irresponsible, soft-on-crime policies that often treat criminals as victims and victims as criminals. Many of these same cities also maintain the strictest gun laws in the nation. But rather than confront the failure of their policies, certain politicians have sought more laws restricting the 2nd Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, while simultaneously continuing to undermine our institutions of law and order. And to suppress the truth, some now seek to prohibit firearm manufacturers and supporters of the 2nd Amendment from advertising products in a manner designed to remind law-abiding citizens that they have a Constitutional right to bear arms in defense of themselves and their families.
We are proud of our 170-year history. We are proud of the commitment of our employees to making a quality product. We are proud to provide law-abiding citizens and law enforcement – our customers – with the tools to provide for their security and independence. We are proud of our responsible business practices.
We will continue to work alongside law enforcement, community leaders and lawmakers who are genuinely interested in creating safe neighborhoods. We will engage those who genuinely seek productive discussions, not a means of scoring political points. We will continue informing law-abiding citizens that they have a Constitutionally-protected right to defend themselves and their families. We will never back down in our defense of the 2nd Amendment.”
A number of interesting jobs in the firearms industry have become available in recent weeks. The NSSF maintains a regularly-updated listing of employment opportunities with gun-makers and shooting sports organizations. On the NSSF’s job board right now there are financial openings, account manager positions, engineering jobs, sales and marketing positions, and media/digital marketing opportunities. Here are some of the jobs we found this week posted on the NSSF Website. CLICK HERE to visit the NSSF Career Center with all current listings
We love Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers. We have put thousands of rounds through S&W Model 617 revolvers, with 4″ and 6″ barrels. These stainless .22 LR handguns are accurate, superbly reliable, and they hold their value. In general we’ve found that Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers may be less fussy with ammo, and more trouble-free than typical semi-auto rimfires. Bottom line, we feel that everyone should have an S&W rimfire wheelgun in their collection.
Along with its .22 LR wheelguns, S&W now offers another very impressive Rimfire Revolver option — the “revived” Model 648 in .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire). This stainless Model 648 brings a more powerful cartridge to S&W rimfire revolver fans.
Built on S&W’s medium K-frame, the 8-round Model 648 is designed for small game hunting and target shooting. The .22 WMR is definitely a much more potent varmint cartridge than the .22 LR. You have more downrange energy plus a flatter trajectory. While the 648 does not come with an integral scope rail, it is not difficult to mount red dot or optical sights to this wheelgun.
The Model 648 revolver is built on a stainless steel medium K-frame and includes black synthetic finger groove grips, a black patridge front sight, and adjustable rear sight. This impressive revolver features a full underlug six-inch barrel, eight-round capacity, and is available with an MSRP of $749.
Model 648 History and Features
According to Guns.com: “The K-frame .22 WMR-caliber Model 648 first appeared in Big Blue’s lineup in 1989 sporting a full-lug barrel and stainless steel construction. Retired since 2005, the newest generation of the Model still brings a 6-inch barrel to the party, which translates to a very commanding 11.1-inch overall length. Weight is 46.2-ounces in the eight-shot .22 Mag, making the gun attractive for both those looking to fill pots and smoke targets.” Shown below is a vintage Model 648.
Jan Mladek, General Manager of Smith & Wesson General Manager Jan Mladek reports: “The Model 648 is back in production to satisfy the needs of handgun owners who are looking to achieve greater distance while hunting or target shooting. With a full underlug, six-inch barrel and a patridge front sight, the Model 648 has been designed … to boost accuracy at longer distances. While we currently offer .22 Magnum revolvers in both our J-frame and Classics line, we are excited to add this new .22 Magnum revolver to the modern K-frame lineup.”
Do you know someone getting started in the shooting sports? Or perhaps you know shotgun or rifle shooters who want to improve their handgun skills because they have obtained CCW pistol permits? Then here is a good resource for those shooters-in-training. Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS is a new video series that covers the key points of firearm ownership, from purchasing a pistol, to shooting techniques, gun safety, and storage. While this 38-part series does include some rifle-centric videos, it is mostly focused on handgun training, as you might expect from Smith & Wesson.
The GUNSMARTS series has 38 different videos covering gun safety, gun operation, marksmanship, maintenance, and secure storage. There are both general videos about gun handling and very specific videos about topics such as sight alignment, magazine loading, optics and more. Here are six of the best videos in the series. You will find 32 more on the Smith & Wesson Gunsmarts Playlist Page.
10 Tips for Your First Visit to the Range
Shooting Fundamentals — Sight Picture and Sight Alignment
Handgun Skills — Grip Pressure
Concealed Carry Positions and Holster/Belt Options
Back in 2015, the firearms collection of famed gun writer Elmer Keith went to auction. The Keith Estate auction drew interest from around the globe, and bidding was strong. When the dust settled, and all the individual lots were totaled, Keith’s remarkable collection sold to various bidders for $1,905,458!
High-priced highlights from the auction are shown below. NOTE: You can see more than 60 other Elmer Keith firearms, along with a list of final auction prices. The Guns & Ammo website has a detailed, illustrated report on the Elmer Keith auction with dozens of high-quality photos.
Elmer Keith was an American rancher, firearms enthusiast, and author. Keith was instrumental in the development of the first magnum revolver cartridge, the .357 Magnum, as well as the later .44 Magnum and .41 Magnum cartridges, credited by Roy G. Jinks as “the father of big bore handgunning.” These videos recount Keith’s personal history and his influence on the design of modern Magnum cartridges.
Lot 1038: Colonel Jim Corbett’s .450/.400 “Tiger Rifle” (Sold for $264,500.00)
Dangerous Game Rifles in Collection
The legendary “Corbett Tiger Rifle”, a Jeffery boxlock .450/400 was used by famed hunter Edward James “Jim” Corbett. This rifle was featured in Corbett’s book Man-Eaters of Kumaon. Two of the man-eating tigers Corbett hunted were believed to have killed over 800 humans in the Kumaon Hills of India.
Lot 1005: Colt SAA No. 5 .44 Special “The Last Word in Sixguns” (Sold for $80,500.00)
This famous revolver started as a Colt SAA, but then was heavily modified. The top strap of the frame was welded up into a flat-top target configuration, with an adjustable rear sight added. The hammer was modified with a Bisley-type target spur. The unique grip of the Number Five was created by marrying a modified Bisley backstrap to a Single Action Army trigger guard. His most famous pistol, Keith called this handgun “The last word in fine six-guns”.
This video showcases this rare Colt SAA revolver, as viewed at the auction:
Lot 1060: Pachmayar Custom Model 70 .375 H&H (Sold for $22,425.00)
This may be one of the most beautiful model 70 Winchesters ever created. Listed as “Pachmayar Custom M70 .375 H&H with Full Coverage Engraving and Exhibition Wood” this rifle sold for $22,425.00 at the Elmer Keith Estate Collection auction. Look at the figure in that wood! The detailed engraving on the action and barrel is fantastic, as is the checkering on the grip.
Lot 1041: Westley Richards Droplock .476 NE (Sold for $69,000.00)
Used by Elmer Keith on safari in Tanzania, this was Keith’s preferred Elephant Rifle.
Lot 1020: Smith & Wesson Triple Lock Target Revolvers. (Sold for $39,100.00)
This rare set belonged to Gerrit Forbes and Ed McGivern before being acquired by Elmer Keith.
Photos courtesy of James D. Julia Auctioneers, Fairfield, Maine.
This Sunday, 10/3/2021, we recommend tuning into Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk® Radio, the original nationally-syndicated radio talk show about guns and the shooting sports. This week’s radio show focuses on Smith & Wesson’s decision to relocate to Tennessee. Tom interviews S&W President/CEO Mark Smith. In addition, Sunday’s show will include a lengthy, informative segment on airguns.
Tom Interviews Smith & Wesson President/CEO Mark Smith
This Sunday, Tom is joined by Smith & Wesson’s President and CEO, Mark Smith, to discuss the just-announced headquarters and operations move from Massachusetts to a brand-new facility in Maryville, Tennessee. Due to current anti-gun legislation being considered in Massachusetts, Smith said “… for the continued health and strength of our iconic company, we feel that we have been left with no other alternative.” S&W’s new headquarters will be located in Partnership Park North in Maryville, TN, in the greater Knoxville area. Production of semi-auto pistols and rifles will be moved to Tennessee, but revolver production will remain in Springfield, MA (for now). S&W plans to break ground in Tennessee by the end of the year, and plans to complete the operational move by mid-2023. An artist’s conception of S&W’s new plant is shown below.
News Report from Tennessee explains reasons for S&W’s relocation to Tennessee
Airguns for Target Shooting and Hunting — Pyramyd Air
Also this week, Tom Gresham talks with Tyler Partner of Pyramyd Air about the growing popularity of airguns. In the video below, Tyler covers some key basics about airgun shooting, stressing the affordability of shooting pellets pushed by air. You can buy 500 pellets for under $20.00. Compare that to the cost of commercial ammo these days ($0.50 to $1.00/round for 9mm pistol ammo), and you can see why airguns are becoming very popular.
Listen on Radio or Stream via your Internet Connection
This broadcast airs Sunday, September 3, 2021 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Eastern time on 270+ radio stations nationwide. Listen on a radio station near you or via LIVE Streaming.
NOTE: Past podcasts can be heard online via the GUNTALK PODCAST Site and Apple iTunes. The Gun Talk podcast archive has many informative shows. Check out this August 1, 2021 episode which offers smart Long Range Shooting Tips.
Big news in the gun industry. Smith & Wesson (S&W) announced today it will move its headquarters out of Massachusetts and relocate in Tennessee. In addition, a large share of S&W’s manufacturing operations will be transferred from Massachusetts to the Second Amendment-friendly state of Tennessee. Smith & Wesson will also shut down facilities in Connecticut and Missouri, in connection with the Tennessee relocation.
The main reason for the move was recent anti-gun legislation in Massachusetts. According to Fox News: “The legislation, if enacted, would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing products that accounted for more than 60% of its revenue last year.” Specifically, pending bill SD. 2588 (“An Act to Stop Mass Shootings”) would bar the manufacturing of “any assault weapon or large capacity feeding device”.
When the process is complete, S&W will have just three manufacturing and distribution facilities in the USA. S&W will continue to make revolvers in Massachusetts, however, and S&W Operations in Holton, Maine will continue without change. Approximately 1000 S&W jobs will remain in Massachusetts after the move. But 750 jobs will be re-located to the new S&W headquarters/production center in Maryville, Tennessee. The move is slated to take place in 2023 at an estimated cost of $138,000,000 to build new facilities and transfer tooling/machinery.
Manufacture of most S&W semi-auto rifles and pistols will be moved out of Massachusetts.
Fox Business noted that restrictive, Democratic Party-sponsored legislation in Massachusetts is compelling S&W to leave: “Gun maker Smith & Wesson Brands Inc. will relocate its headquarters to Tennessee next year due to proposed firearms legislation in its home state of Massachusetts. The legislation, if enacted, would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing products that accounted for more than 60% of its revenue last year.” Smith & Wesson was founded in Connecticut in 1856, and has been headquartered in Springfield Massachusetts for most of its 165 years of operation. Smith & Wesson was founded by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson as the “Smith & Wesson Revolver Company” in 1856.
A S&W press release cited these key factors in the decision to move:
1. Support for the Second Amendment
2. Business friendly environment
3. Quality of life for employees
4. Cost of living and affordability
5. Access to higher education institutions
6. Availability of qualified labor for its operations and headquarter functions
7. Favorable location for efficiency of distribution
Recently proposed legislation in Massachusetts, if enacted, would prohibit the company from manufacturing certain firearms in the state. Mark Smith, S&W CEO/President said:
“After an exhaustive and thorough analysis, for the continued health and strength of our iconic company, we feel that we have been left with no other alternative. These bills would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing firearms that are legal in almost every state in America and that are safely used by tens of millions of law-abiding citizens every day exercising their Constitutional Second Amendment rights, protecting themselves and their families, and enjoying the shooting sports. While we are hopeful that this arbitrary and damaging legislation will be defeated in this session, these products made up over 60 percent of our revenue last year, and the unfortunate likelihood that such restrictions would be raised again led to a review of the best path forward for Smith & Wesson.”
Smith further praised Tennessee’s leaders: “The strong support we have received from the State of Tennessee… combined with the quality of life, outdoor lifestyle and low cost of living in the Greater Knoxville area has left no doubt that Tennessee is the ideal location for Smith & Wesson’s new headquarters. We would like to specifically thank Governor Lee for his decisive contributions and the entire state legislature for their unwavering support of the Second Amendment and for creating a welcoming, business-friendly environment.”
S&W’s Tennessee factory and headquarters construction will commence in the 4th quarter of this year and is expected to be completed by mid-2023.
What is the most popular pistol chambering in the USA? It is the 9mm Luger (aka 9x19mm Parabellum). And nothing else is very close. Four out of every 10 pistols made from 2010-2020 were 9mms. And the percentage of 9mm is on the rise. In the year 2010, 27.9% of all handguns produced were 9mms. But in the year 2019, 9mm pistols represented 56.8% of all handguns made in the USA. For the entire decade, 9mm pistols made up 42.8% of all pistols produced domestically (15,111,566 of 35,315,097).
Based on data collected by the ATF, we can compare production numbers for the entire decade 2010 through 2020. During this 10-year span 15,111,566 9mm pistols were produced. That’s roughly twice as many as the next largest category, .40 up to .50 caliber, with 7,661,896 produced. Americans also liked their .22-caliber handguns, with 4,605,411 “up to .22″ handguns produced.
According to Shooting Industry Magazine: “9mm pistols were the most prolifically produced caliber in the 2010s. Thanks to the ATF’s Annual Firearms Manufacturing & Export Report (AFMER) … we’re able to able to quantify the scope of [the 9mm caliber’s] dominance.”
Smith & Wesson is Now America’s Top 9mm Pistol Manufacturer
Among 9mm pistol producers, Smith & Wesson (S&W) tops the field, with the M&P line leading the way. In second place is SIG Sauer, followed by Ruger (3rd), and Glock (4th). Notably, Glock seems to have lost market share over the past decade. S&W produced nearly four times as many 9mm pistols as Glock.
This YouTube Video Compares the SIG P365 and the S&W Shield
SIG Sauer made a big jump in the last decade: “The second-largest 9mm producer, SIG Sauer grew at an impressive rate during the 2010s — no doubt led by its P320 Modular Handgun Series and high-capacity, micro-compact P365.” (Shooting Industry.) Notably, SIG Sauer also secured the U.S. Military contract for the M17/M18 9mm pistol.
Of course, if you want a superb trigger in a .22 LR semi-auto pistol, look no further than the S&W Model 41. For $2000.00 to $3700.00 you can find the fully engraved, 50th Anniversary Model 41 in presentation case on various auction sights. First released in 2007, the engraved model 41 combines superior accuracy with stunning appearance.
The Performance Center Model 41 sports an integral Picatinny-style equipment rail for easy installation of optics. Other standard features include an external thumb safety on the left side of the frame, custom wood target grips, and a blued finish. This full-size, 10-shot .22 LR pistol features a carbon steel frame and slide along with a 5.5-inch barrel. Measuring 10.5 inches in overall length, the Model 41 PC has an unloaded weight of 41 ounces. MSRP is $1763.00.
T6 Aluminum Frame with Tungsten Gray Cerakote® Finish
A number of interesting jobs in the firearms industry have become available in recent weeks. The NSSF maintains a regularly-updated listing of employment opportunities with gun-makers and shooting sports organizations. On the NSSF’s job board right now there are financial openings, account manager positions, engineering jobs, sales and marketing positions, and media/digital marketing opportunities. Here are some of the jobs we found this week posted on the NSSF Website. 
Built on S&W’s medium K-frame, the 8-round Model 648 is designed for small game hunting and target shooting. The .22 WMR is definitely a much more potent varmint cartridge than the .22 LR. You have more downrange energy plus a flatter trajectory. While the 648 does not come with an integral scope rail, it is not difficult to mount red dot or optical sights to this wheelgun.
Based on data collected by the ATF, we can compare production numbers for the entire decade 2010 through 2020. During this 10-year span 15,111,566 9mm pistols were produced. That’s roughly twice as many as the next largest category, .40 up to .50 caliber, with 7,661,896 produced. Americans also liked their .22-caliber handguns, with 4,605,411 “up to .22″ handguns produced. 
