S&W Model 41 Barrel Length Recommendations?

This sort of a survey question.  I assume the balance of the 5.5" and 7" factory barrels is different.

Which one is better for competing with open sights?

If adding a dot sight, which one would you do that to?

Or would you invest in a Clark "Bully" style barrel if wanting a dot sight?

I trust you mean the model 41?
I have both with open sights. I prefer the "larger" sight on the 5 1/2 inch model barrel. Provide a cleaner and more crisp picture. 
That said, Champions Choice did have a better replacement sight for the 7 3/8 inch. Unknown if still available.

Adding a optic/red dot sight would require drilling and tapping on the older models. Not a big deal. Obviously the longer barrel is a little lighter to add weight to. Easiest method may be to purchase a Clark barrel, or a newer S&W barrel that is already grooved for optics.
(I also have an Ultradot mounted on a 41 5/12 inch.) Weight is manageable.

I have been shooting bullseye for close to 40 years, when I first started, red dot sights were an oddity. The prevailing view then was long barrel for open sights, more sight radius. And shorter barrel for optics. Less “residence” time in the barrel theoretically makes the impact closer to point of aim with the inevitable wiggle.

I can't decide if I have anything to add to this thread or not.

At 65, my eyes are way too old for iron sights. I have the Performance Center 41 with an UltraDot, and Herrett national grips, and it feels just fine to me.

As far as Clark, there are times I can't even tell if they're still in business or not.

Bangarang,

I have both barrels for my Model 41.  I shoot better with the 5.5 in.  

As mentioned above, most of the 5.5 barrels have the same rear sight that S&W used on the Model 52.  That has a sight blade with a wider, flatter surface facing the shooter.  I find that style of sight easier to use.

The shorter sight radius also works better for me.  I don't know if my hold is different with the 7 in barrel, or if it just appears to move more on me, but my scores have always been higher when shooting pistols with barrels below 6 inches in length.  I shoot my Model 10 revolver, with a 4 in heavy barrel, just as well as I shoot my Model 14 with a 6 in barrel.  The Model 14 with an 8 in barrel just waves too much in the wind for me.

So, if you can find someone who owns a gun with both barrels, my advice would be to take the gun for a spin with each.  You might find that one works significantly better for your particular tastes and hold.

Regards,

David

I have both a 5.5 inch barrel and the 7.375 inch barrel (came with the gun) I am used to the longer barrel so that is what I use.  Two years ago I got a pair of single focus glasses that focus on the front sight and that seemed to help.

I own both as well as a few 41’s accurized by gunsmiths. In my opinion, the shorter bull barrel variant is superior for balance, resulting in a steadier hold.

As others have mentioned, the longer sight radius may be an advantage on the long barrel. It also offers a different picture. Sights on the long barrel afford more light on either side of the front objective (in my opinion). The bull barrel uses a model 52 style rear notch which I do not prefer.

So my answer depends on whether or not you are using an optic. If so, the 5.5” bull barrel is best. If using irons, consider which sight picture you prefer based upon rear notch width and overall radius. If you like the model 52 style rear objective, consider finding an EFS variant and extend the front sight for best balance and radius.

Dinan added weight to the long barrel before the bull barrel was available.

Don Hamilton also added weight to the long barrel model 41.

Best balance, best radius.

Drawman623,
Is that some custom work or the factory extended front sight version?

A 7" barrel cut to 5" with a scope mount and scope provides the perfect balance.

Outthere wrote:A 7" barrel cut to 5" with a scope mount and scope provides the perfect balance.

Yes, It’s called a Hammerli 208…

Personally, I find the 5” Model 41 Bull is too heavy but I love the sights as compared to the revolver sights on the 7+ model

chiz1180 wrote:Drawman623,
Is that some custom work or the factory extended front sight version?

This is a factory 41.  Im told that about 1000 were made with the extendable front sight. This one has the weight slightly modified but the sights are untouched. 

2 set screws and the sight will slide to the user’s chosen position.

Outthere wrote:A 7" barrel cut to 5" with a scope mount and scope provides the perfect balance.

Indeed....

I've been fortunate enough to have 2 model 41's with an extra barrel so I could switch from steel to dots as easy as swapping barrels.

In the last 4 or 5 years I've been thinning the herd. Today I have one model 41 left. Since it was my choice what to keep I kept the best (for me). I kept the A series with the 7 "+ barrel. Barrel is complete with exchangable barrel weights and both the muzzle brake and false front. To make it perfect for old eyes I put an h1 aimpoint on it. I've even went back to the original shape grips (Altamonts). I think this is the perfect setup for the 41. Adding all disclaimers.
I swapped out Aimpoints after this picture was taken. It's time for more pics.

chiz1180 wrote:Drawman623,
Is that some custom work or the factory extended front sight version?

That is a pig sticker. Before red dots they would extend the sight radius to do a little better if you can hold that sight picture, not many people can. Clark and Giles would do that to guns, 

Correct me If I am wrong but I think Hershel Anderson Used pig stickers when he broke the record.

rich.tullo wrote:

chiz1180 wrote:Drawman623,
Is that some custom work or the factory extended front sight version?

That is a pig sticker. Before red dots they would extend the sight radius to do a little better if you can hold that sight picture, not many people can. Clark and Giles would do that to guns, 

Correct me If I am wrong but I think Hershel Anderson Used pig stickers when he broke the record.

That particular variation is adjustable, which makes it cooler. My kit gun had a fixed extended front sight originally.

Adjustable pig sticker 

Jack H wrote:

Outthere wrote:A 7" barrel cut to 5" with a scope mount and scope provides the perfect balance.

Indeed....

What is that medium gray surface on the very front end of the slide? Is it some kind of a stippling? Also, what purposes does it serve?

Skate board tape or tread tape. Sometimes the factory serrations on M41s are shallow and rounded, making it hard to rack the slide and cock the hammer.

An alternative to the tape is have serrations cut in the same area Hammerli 208/215 style.