S&W 4013 Pistol Guide: Complete Review of This Compact .40 S&W

The S&W 4013 is a compact, alloy-frame DA/SA .40 S&W pistol with a 3.5-inch barrel, slim single-stack profile, and a reputation for exceptional reliability and controllable recoil.

Weighing around 27–29 ounces and offering an 8+1 or 9+1 capacity depending on the variant, the Smith & Wesson 4013 remains one of the most respected concealed-carry and backup-duty pistols from the classic third-generation S&W lineup.

With its stainless slide, quality machining, crisp single-action break, and proven track record in law enforcement, the 4013 is still highly sought after today by shooters, collectors, and fans of metal-frame compact pistols.

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What Makes the S&W 4013 Relevant Today?

The S&W 4013 remains relevant today because it blends compact dimensions, dependable DA/SA operation, and mild .40 S&W recoil in a rugged metal-frame pistol that still outperforms many modern polymer guns in shootability.

Introduced in 1991, the Smith & Wesson 4013 was part of the company’s iconic third-generation semi-auto series, designed during an era when law-enforcement agencies were transitioning from revolvers to semi-auto pistols. The 4013 answered the need for a compact .40-caliber pistol that officers could carry as a primary duty gun or as a backup firearm.

Smith & Wesson’s third-generation lineup set industry standards for reliability and machining quality during the 1990s and 2000s. With its alloy frame, stainless slide, controllable recoil, and wraparound grip design, the 4013 carved out a reputation as “the compact .40 that shoots like a full-size gun.”

The intended market included concealed carriers, detectives, off-duty officers, and civilians wanting a dependable EDC firearm in a proven caliber. Today, the 4013 also appeals strongly to collectors and shooters who appreciate old-school metal craftsmanship.

What Are the Core Specs of the Smith & Wesson 4013?

The Smith & Wesson 4013 is a compact DA/SA pistol chambered in .40 S&W with an alloy frame, stainless slide, 3.5-inch barrel, and an 8+1 or 9+1 capacity depending on the model. These specifications make it a balanced blend of concealability, manageable recoil, and durability.

Caliber

• .40 S&W

Dimensions

• Overall length: ~7 inches

• Barrel length: 3.5 inches

• Height: approx. 5 inches

• Width: approx. 1.2 inches

Weight

• Unloaded: ~27–29 ounces depending on frame finish

• Loaded: approx. 31–33 oz with 180gr ammo

Materials

• Frame: aluminum alloy

• Slide: stainless steel

• Finish: stainless or blued alloy frame depending on model

• Grip: one-piece Xenoy or polymer wraparound

Magazine Capacity

• 8+1 (classic single-stack)

• 9+1 or 10+1 (TSW models or aftermarket magazines)

The specs place it between a SIG P239 and an M&P40C in size while maintaining the classic weight and balance of S&W’s metal-frame pistols.

Design & Build Quality — How Well Is the S&W 4013 Constructed?

The S&W 4013 offers excellent build quality with an alloy frame, stainless slide, and a DA/SA trigger system that provides durability, reliability, and a controllable shooting experience.

Frame & Slide Construction

• Alloy frame keeps weight down for concealed carry

• Stainless slide ensures strength and longevity

• Tight barrel-to-slide lockup delivers strong mechanical accuracy

The combination feels premium and rugged, typical of 1990s S&W craftsmanship.

Ergonomics & Grip Feel

The 4013 offers:

• A slim, single-stack profile

• A wraparound Xenoy grip that fills the hand comfortably

• A low bore axis that reduces muzzle rise

Many shooters comment:
“It shoots nothing like a small .40 — it’s far smoother than most modern compacts.”

Controls

• Ambidextrous slide-mounted safety/decocker

• DA/SA trigger system

• Magazine disconnect on most models

• Left-side mag release (reversible)

• Stainless slide stop lever

The controls feel positive and well-machined, though some prefer frame-mounted safeties.

Accessory Compatibility

• No rail on most models

• TSW variants may include a Picatinny-style rail

• No optics-ready slides

• Standard Novak-type dovetails for sight upgrades

This pistol predates today’s modular accessory market, so upgrades are limited but still available.

Variants & Model Differences — What Versions of the S&W 4013 Exist?

The S&W 4013 has multiple variants including the original compact model, the enhanced 4013TSW, and related models in the same family offering differing weights, capacities, and features.

Main Variants

• 4013 (Standard): classic compact alloy-frame DA/SA

• 4013 TSW (Tactical Smith & Wesson):

  • Improved trigger components

  • Optional accessory rail depending on production year

  • Slightly revised slide profile

Related Models in the Series

• 4003 / 4043: Alloy-frame, DA/SA or DAO, full-size

• 4040PD: Lightweight scandium-frame compact (very rare)

• 4006: Full-size stainless model with double-stack capacity

Comparison to Similar Guns

To help readers understand the 4013’s niche:

• SIG P239 (.40 S&W): Similar size, heavier DA pull, more expensive

• Glock 23: Higher capacity but snappier recoil, wider grip

• HK USP Compact: Larger and bulkier but very durable

• S&W 3913: Nearly identical design but chambered in 9mm

The 4013 occupies a unique space — slim, reliable, metal-framed, and capable of shooting .40 S&W comfortably.

Performance — How Does the S&W 4013 Shoot?

The Smith & Wesson 4013 performs exceptionally well for a compact .40 S&W, delivering strong accuracy, soft recoil characteristics, and high reliability under diverse ammunition loads.

Accuracy

Users consistently report:

• Tight groups at 7–15 yards

• Capable accuracy out to 25 yards

• Easy-to-acquire sight picture with Novak-type sights

Recoil Management

For a compact .40:

• Recoil is notably soft

• The low bore axis keeps muzzle flip under control

• Alloy frame absorbs energy effectively

This is a standout feature compared to polymer compacts.

Reliability

The 4013 is known for:

• Excellent feeding reliability

• Clean extraction patterns

• Strong performance even after thousands of rounds

Malfunctions are rare and often tied to aftermarket magazines rather than the pistol itself.

Trigger Quality

• DA pull: smooth, around 10 lbs

• SA pull: crisp 4.5–5 lbs

• Reset: short and tactile

The trigger feels very refined for a 1990s compact DA/SA pistol.

Ammunition Compatibility — What Ammo Works Best in the Smith & Wesson 4013?

The S&W 4013 runs reliably with most common .40 S&W loads, performing best with 165gr and 180gr bullets in both defensive and practice ammunition.

Ideal Grain Weights

• 165gr: balanced velocity and recoil

• 180gr: smoothest recoil impulse, extremely controllable

Best Defensive Loads

• Federal HST 180gr

• Speer Gold Dot 165gr

• Winchester Ranger 180gr

• Hornady Critical Duty 175gr

Practice Ammo

• Federal American Eagle 180gr

• Blazer Brass 180gr

• Winchester White Box 165gr

+P Ammo

Not recommended. While the gun is strong, +P .40 S&W offers minimal benefit and increases wear.

Known Issues of the S&W 4013

OEM magazines feed everything well; some aftermarket mags reduce reliability.

What Is the S&W 4013 Best Suited For?

The S&W 4013 is best suited for concealed carry, home defense, and range use, offering an excellent balance of size, shootability, and reliability.

Concealed Carry

• Slim single-stack design hides well

• Manageable weight for EDC

• DA/SA system provides a safe first-shot trigger pull

For many, the 4013 was the “ideal compact .40” before the polymer era.

Home Defense

Ideal for:

• Soft recoil

• Reliable performance

• DA/SA safety margin

• Good sight visibility

Competition Use

Not a primary competition gun, but:

• Works in IDPA Compact Carry

• Provides respectable accuracy

Outdoor / Field Use

The stainless slide and alloy frame offer good durability.
Not a hunting pistol, but perfectly adequate for field carry.

Range Use

Fun to shoot thanks to low recoil and refined trigger. Great for those who want a compact pistol that behaves like a larger one.

What Is the Best S&W 4013 Holster Setup?

A S&W 4013 holster should provide stable retention and good weight distribution, especially since the pistol’s alloy and steel construction gives it more heft than modern polymer compacts.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

This option offers concealed carry with strong support and flexibility. The backing distributes the 4013’s weight comfortably, especially for all-day wear.

OWB Paddle Holster

A paddle holster makes it easy to put on or remove the 4013 without adjusting your belt. Its rigid build supports the weight well and keeps the pistol secure.

Swivel Drop Leg Holster

This setup positions the firearm lower on the thigh for rapid access. It works well for those wearing outer layers or gear that might interfere with belt carry.

Chest Holster

A chest holster distributes weight across the torso and keeps the 4013 accessible during outdoor activities. It’s excellent for hiking, ATV riding, or field carry.

Hook & Loop Holster

 

A hook-and-loop holster provides mounting flexibility for bags, vehicles, or modular surfaces. The secure retention ensures the gun stays put even with movement.

What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of the S&W 4013?

Pros

• Reliable and durable compact .40

• Low recoil for caliber and size

• Slim grip ideal for concealed carry

• Crisp single-action trigger

• Excellent accuracy for a compact pistol

• Proven third-gen S&W engineering

Cons

• Heavier than modern polymer compacts

• Magazine disconnect disliked by some

• Limited accessory/optic options

• Parts and mags increasingly scarce

• Slide-mounted safety takes practice

Final Verdict — Should You Buy the S&W 4013?

The S&W 4013 is one of the best compact metal-frame .40 S&W pistols ever produced. It offers a trusted DA/SA system, excellent accuracy, a smooth trigger, and the classic construction quality that made Smith & Wesson’s third-generation pistols famous.

Best For

• Concealed carriers who prefer metal-frame pistols

• Shooters wanting a compact .40 with soft recoil

• Collectors of classic S&W pistols

• Fans of DA/SA systems

Value for Money

With used prices often in the $350–$550 range, the 4013 is one of the best-value compact metal pistols available today.

Long-Term Ownership

Parts availability will slowly shrink, but the 4013’s durability ensures decades of reliable service if maintained properly.

If you’re looking for a dependable, accurate, and classic compact .40-caliber pistol, the Smith & Wesson 4013 remains a standout choice and a true piece of American handgun history.