Colt Woodsman vs S&W Model 41

B

Blue Heeler

Moderator
I have a dilemma----I have a Woodsman Mk3 Target in A1 condition.It is 36 years old.The blueing is still like new and it goes reliably.I normally shoot bigger caliber guns and just use this one for plinking. I have a standing offer from a mate
who will pay $US 450 for it.Now I have been offered a S&W M41,years younger,and,off the rest shoots a tighter group.The price is $US 510. I just don't know what to do--I suppose I could just buy the 41 and have both,but I don't really want two .22's and the small changeover cost is attractive---what I need advice about is:- value,accuracy and the effects of age--all ideas appreciated.
 
IMHO (& YMMV)

I really like both, but I'd go with the S&W Model 41 - just because I like it a little better. Although I too have a standing offer out to a friend who has a good Woodsman - but I wouldn't let one of my 41s go in trade for it. Unless you shoot as well or better than the Woodsman then I don't think the extra cinching up of the group will make much difference to you if you use it mostly as a plinker.

I don't think the age difference matters. In normal use and with reasonable attention to rust prevention (inside and out) either gun will probably be still working when you've gone on to your final job of making rose bushes greener. Down the road, if something does break or you lose a little spring, it might be a shade easier to find parts for the 41 - simply because S&W still makes the gun.

Otherwise I'd go (stay) with whichever one you like the best. If you have no clear preference - then make both the other guys happy and you'll have a new toy to play with.

The prices you mentioned seem about in line with what I've seen for comparable guns in the US - but I have no idea about the potential value in Australia. Actually, for the US market, you'd probably be able to get a slightly better price here on your Woodsman - depending on shape, accessories, etc..

------------------
Jim Fox

[This message has been edited by JimFox (edited July 28, 2000).]
 
Unless there's a dramatic difference between the two pistols as to your "hittability", I'd offer the advice to own the one which appeals most to your sense of esthetics. "The one that you think's purtier, Bubba."

For me, and that's just me, I'd take the Colt every time. To me, just me, it feels better in my hand and "it's purtier".

FWIW, Art
 
Parts and service are a consideration, and that would favor (if it's a shooter) the 41. Which, by the way, is a superb pistol, especially in its older production.
 
I always hate to suggest parting with anything, but that is a great deal and the 41 is a fine pistol.

The Woodsman was very durable, but was designed in the olden days when the sudden "breaking glass" trigger pull was in fashion. Its trigger cannot be adjusted, it does not take a muzzle brake, and the sights are not on the same piece of steel. Further, there is no way to interchange barrels, which can be done with the S&W.

The old Woodsman has beautiful lines and is a real classic, but all in all, the S&W simply is in a different class.

Jim
 
Wow, what a choice to have to make.
Re: Parts/Service: Since both companies are about moribund, it's a toss-up.
My Woodsman, now long gone, was nothing as accurate or precise as several M41's I've shot, IF shot from a bench, rested. But I could hit better with the Colt offhand, despite its inferior trigger feel (comments refer here to my own personal and subjective experience.)
So it comes down to a choice of 'classic rounded or modern pointed', as the brassiere saleslady said to my wife...
In your case, I'd keep the classic Woodsman.

------------------
If they take our guns, I intend to let my hair grow long and acquire the jawbone of an ass.
 
I have both. I will keep both. I use the 41 more from the bench but for a while I shot squirrels and other small game with it. I think that since you've had the Colt for 36 years it should be kept because you will miss it if you get rid of it. MWT
 
Blue Heeler; Tough call, my friend! :eek: I
previously owned a Colt Match Target Woodsman
from the 70's. Extremely accurate, straight
from the box. :D I have absolutely no experience with Smith & Wesson's model 41? :(
However, I understand that they are also
excellent weapons. :eek: Like the rest of
the member's have already stated; "Why not
have both"? :p

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, Life Member N.R.A.
 
Thanks for the advice.I'm leaning towards keeping the Colt,and buying the M41.I've already got 14 handguns in my safe (incl some of my son's guns)and it is getting rather full.Besides that, I try to be prudent and not self indulgent about my guns but I sucumb to temptation so easily--it is a character flaw I guess,and I'll just have to live with it.I feel like the disreputable Mr Toad from "The Wind in the Willows"-Ah Well--"poop" "poop"--I'm off to get another gun---I tried,I truly tried.
 
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