Sometimes, a discontinued model deserves a big send off | #rumblereels #nolowballers #podcast

In this episode of the No Lowballers Podcast, hosts Logan Metesh of High Caliber History and Allen Forkner of GunBroker.com are joined by Smith & Wesson historian Mike Helms for his record-setting third appearance on the show. Together, they dive deep into the history, design, and legacy of one of the most iconic .22 target pistols ever made—the Smith & Wesson Model 41.

With news breaking that Smith & Wesson has officially discontinued production of the Model 41, the crew takes listeners through the gun’s origins, unique engineering, competition dominance, and lasting place in firearms history. Whether you’re a collector, competitor, or simply appreciate classic craftsmanship, this farewell episode is a must-listen.

Key Topics Covered:
The 10-year development of the Model 41 from prototype to release in 1957
How its design competed against the Colt Woodsman, High Standard, and Ruger Standard pistols
Rare experimental “X guns” and why collectors chase them
Innovative features: stationary barrel, interchangeable barrels, and futuristic compensators
The premium price point that set it apart—even in the 1950s
The Model 46 “budget” version and why it’s just as collectible today
Performance Center variations, railed slides, and optics-ready options
Why Smith & Wesson discontinued the Model 41 in 2025 and what it means for collectors
Future possibilities: could we one day see a “Model 41 Classic”?
From Olympic weight kits to rare .22 short versions, this episode shines a spotlight on the Model 41’s place as one of the finest target pistols ever produced.

Watch or Listen Now:
Join the No Lowballers crew for this deep-dive farewell and share your own Model 41 stories in the comments. Did you snag one before they were gone? How does it stack up against your Ruger or High Standard?

Listen now on your favorite platform and don’t forget: If you’re already a subscriber, make sure to re-subscribe using the updated links below to keep receiving new episodes.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UoPXevKfKwruKcEcV4ir3
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-lowballers/id1812452370
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f74f614-ea1c-4ca6-abd4-cfaf5135bf8e/no-lowballers
iHeart: https://iheart.com/podcast/274120614/
Castbox: https://castbox.fm/channel/id6595321
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NoLowballersPodcast/videos

To stream directly or learn more, visit www.gunbroker.com/c/podcast

Follow No Lowballers on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes content, historical deep dives and weekly drops every Thursday.

#NoLowBallersPodcast