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6/24/2019 1:58:46 PM
 
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Section 8: Handguns Subject: S & W.41 Magnum Msg# 1049850
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This was actually the large N-frame designed for the .41 Magnum in 1964 when S&W tried to come out with the ideal police cartridge and revolver. Unfortunately instead of a heavy lead bullet at 900 to 1000fps, they came out with a lead bullet several hundred fps faster that recoiled heavily, was too difficult to shoot, and to add insult to injury, leaded barrels horribly. And this was the "downloaded" LSWC version of the JSP they came out with for the adjustable-sighted version of the revolver, the Model 57.
The lack of acceptance of the .41 Magnum by the police and even by the general public for its original purpose, self-defense, comes down entirely to Smith & Wesson dropping the ball badly. They had been advised by Bill Jordan and Skeeter Skelton if memory serves as to what was desired, a big bore midway between the .38 Special and .44 Special in size and throwing a heavy bullet, and they muffed it. Today the .41 Magnum is known as a hunting round and is a niche cartridge, loved by a few only. And while we no longer have the same respect for heavy bullets moving at moderate velocities for self-defense, if the .41 Magnum had come out according to desires, it would have been a winner. The Model 58 pictured is quite the collectible, as it is the last N-frame Military & Police model revolver Smith & Wesson ever built. I'd enjoy having one in my safe. Here's a better photo:
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For reference, the above message is a reply to a message where: Police issue? Looks like something a Highway Patrolman would carry back in the day? Image below from WoodyForeman - Image Title: photos Image Info: Smith and Wesson model 58 .41 Magnum Mfg. 1976  |
