Smith & Wesson Model 1046
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1990
Also known as: Model 1046, S&W 1046
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 1046 is a full-size, double-action-only variant of the Model 1006, featuring a consistent long trigger pull for every shot and representing the ultimate simplification of the third-generation 10mm platform. Introduced in 1990, the DAO trigger system eliminates the single-action mode entirely, providing the same trigger pull weight and travel distance for the first shot and all subsequent shots, addressing concerns from some law enforcement agencies about officers accidentally firing light single-action shots under stress after the first double-action pull. Built on the same robust large stainless steel frame as the 1006 with a 5-inch barrel and 9-round single-stack magazine, the 1046 features a bobbed hammer that follows the slide forward after each shot, no external safety or decocker controls, and a trigger pull that mimics the feel of a revolver. This design was popular with agencies transitioning from revolvers to semi-automatics in the early 1990s, as it maintained familiar manual of arms while offering increased firepower and faster reloads.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1077 g (38.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 216 mm (8.50") |
| Barrel Length | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Height | 149 mm (5.87") |
| Width | 38 mm (1.50") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Pull | 56 N (12.6 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 366 m/s (1201 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 782 J (577 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- 10mm Auto · primary — also known as 10mm, 10x25mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Magazine Disconnect, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Third Generation Design, Double Action Only, Adjustable Rear Sight, Stainless Steel Construction, Single Stack Magazine, No External Safety, Reversible Magazine Release, Curved Backstrap, Bobbed Hammer
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Various U.S. law enforcement agencies · adopted 1990
Production
Production years: 1990-1993
Part of approximately 50,796 total S&W 10mm Auto pistols produced across all variants
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1993
Notes
The DAO configuration was particularly popular with some agencies in the 1990s as it eliminated the need for officers to manipulate safety levers or remember different trigger pulls, providing a simpler, more revolver-like manual of arms that was easier to teach and maintain qualification standards. The New York Police Department famously adopted DAO pistols exclusively during this era, though in 9mm rather than 10mm. The Model 1046 featured Smith & Wesson's smooth DAO trigger that was regarded as superior to many competitors' DAO designs. Part of the limited production run of approximately 50,796 total S&W 10mm Auto pistols produced across all six variants before the entire line was discontinued in 1993. The 1046's bobbed hammer design prevents snagging on clothing during the draw, making it well-suited for plainclothes or concealed carry applications despite its full-size dimensions. Today, the DAO trigger design has largely fallen out of favor with most agencies preferring striker-fired pistols or traditional DA/SA designs.
Background
In the early 1990s, DAO triggers were seen as the solution to negligent discharges caused by officers transitioning from double-action to single-action mode mid-gunfight. The theory was elegant: if every shot requires the same heavy pull, muscle memory stays consistent. Reality proved more complex, and striker-fired pistols eventually won the DAO versus DA/SA debate.