Highly Attractive Master Knifemaker Robert W. "Bob" Loveless Smith & Wesson Model 41 Semi-Automatic Pistol with Case and Signed Photographs Though there have been many incredibly talented and innovative knifemakers throughout the history of the United States, there is perhaps one name that stands a bit taller than the rest and that is Bob Loveless. Having begun his knifemaking career in the 1950s, first selling knives through Abercrombie & Fitch, Loveless went on to become one of the most innovative and respected knifemakers this country has ever produced. He is perhaps best known for re-inventing the 19th century construction method of a "full-tapered-tang", which produced knives that were incredibly strong but also immaculately balanced. His initial designs were based on Randall knives, but he quickly transitioned to producing his own designs, which became highly coveted among American sportsmen, workers, and fighting men who valued their unwavering functionality as well as their simply elegant and timeless style. Loveless took this same approach with his gunsmithing, which always took a backseat to the knifemaking, but in which he showed no less of a gift. Having passed away in 2010, Loveless, as well as his knives and firearms remain extremely highly regarded and coveted among sportsmen and collectors, making a piece such a this a true treasure from one of America's most gifted craftsmen. Originally manufactured c. 1970 to 1971, this highly attractive Smith & Wesson Model 41 pistol was subsequently extensively reworked by legendary knifemaker Bob Loveless, who is said by knowledgeable collectors to have only created 70 of these pistols. The left of the frame has the serial number, while the model marking is on the right. The barrel was shortened and extensively reshaped by Loveless, forming a ridged vented rib and featuring his etched maker's mark on either side. Loveless' initials "R.W.L." are electro-penciled on the right rear of the slide, a marking which the consignor notes indicates this pistol personally belonged to Loveless. The slide has also been shortened and reshaped to accommodate an exposed hammer at the rear. The grip frame has also been reshaped with a spur at the toe and a gold washed flat back strap with checkering and a lanyard loop at the base. It is fitted with a ramp blade front sight with an orange insert, an adjustable notch rear sight, and a pair of ergonomically shaped and checkered walnut grips. Includes a glass-topped display case with a partial box of ammunition, two photographs signed by Loveless (one of him and actress Jeannie Wilson holding the gun in its case and one of just the gun), and a leather holster with the Loveless maker's mark stamp and signed by him. The consignor, Jack Lucarelli, notes that Bob Loveless used to say "I can count my friends on one hand", and that he and his wife Jeannie Wilson were included among that select group.

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson

Model: 41

BBL: 4 1/4 inch irregular vent rib

Gauge: 22 LR

Finish: chrome

Grips: walnut

Serial NumberA119696

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

  • Provenance: The Bob Loveless Collection; The Jack Lucarelli Collection
  • Condition: Excellent as configured by Master Knifemaker Bob Loveless, retaining 99% plus of the chrome finish with only the slightest handling marks overall. The grips are also excellent with only the slightest handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is excellent with only the slightest handling evidence. These Loveless customized firearms are true treasures from one of America's finest craftsmen!

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by Rock Island Auction Company
June 27, 2026 5:00 PM CDT
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

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Bid Increments
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$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000