They only carry five rounds of .38 Spl +P ammunition and, at 15 ounces, they weigh about the same as some autoloaders that hold more rounds. At first blush, it might seem that Smith & Wesson’s little J-frame revolvers have outlived their usefulness. So the question is, are these diminutive hideout guns still relevant?
If sales mean anything, then the answer is an unqualified “yes.” Smith & Wesson’s J-frame revolvers remain huge sellers. But why? There are a lot of good reasons to own a J-frame, because the advantages that small revolvers offer to CCW holders outweigh the disadvantages inherent in the platform.
Did you know that:
- Carson Kressley can’t limp-wrist a snubby. Not that he tried, but I’m willing to bet.
- Revolvers don’t fail to feed or fail to eject. Phrases like “won’t return to battery,” “stovepipe jam” and “this POS sucks” are from an alien language not spoken in Revolverland.
- A revolver is a superior weapon for close contact. Shoved into the ribs of a bad guy, the little J-frame conveys its message of peace, love and understanding with surprising eloquence.
- Loading a revolver is simple. Reloads are reasonably quick with speed loaders, and at least one J-frame model comes from the factory already cut for moon clips.
- People with a “dead fish” handshake may lack the grip strength to rack a slide, but they can easily press a crane latch and swing open a cylinder.
- A snubby is as easy to clean as a Rachael Ray Hard Anodized Sauté Pan. When the work is done, just wipe it down and put away. The gun, I mean. The pan could use a bit of a wash.
- J-frames aren’t picky about ammo, either, and they’ll digest whatever they’re fed. Compare that to a pistol that can jam like the Grateful Dead when it’s fed cheap ammo. Load any .38 Special cartridges, from the priciest to the cheapest, and the J-frame revolver will shoot them all.
- Revolvers aren’t sneaky. When there’s a round in the cylinder, it’s obvious.
- Staring down the muzzle of a J-frame is very intimidating. Even though the revolver is small, it doesn’t look like a toy.
- Snubbies are inexpensive to buy. The Smith & Wesson Model 642 pictured here cost $332 NIB, excluding sales tax.
- The gun hasn’t been invented that can be deployed more swiftly, or from more places, than a lightweight snub-nosed revolver. From pocket, purse or holster, ankle or waistband, stuffed into a small-of-the-back or shoulder holster, wherever it’s carried, the snubby can be presented with incredible rapidity. In fact, it needn’t be presented at all. In a pinch, it will shoot through a coat pocket, holster or carry bag with great speed and precision, ruining both the garment and the bad guy’s whole day.
- Finally, snubbies look cool in a retro kind of way. Gee, I wish I could say the same about myself.
Okay, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the snub-nosed holster hornet I’m currently beholding is the Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight. Airweight is what S&W calls its old school lightweight pocket revolvers with aluminum frames and stainless steel cylinders, cranes and barrels – and that’s the entire barrel, not just a sleeve. Smith & Wesson also makes heavier small revolvers all in steel and lighter “Airlight” models in exotic metals. The Airweight revolvers fall someone in the middle in terms of weight, and represent a good balance between low avoirdupois and slick handling.
There are three major Airweight variants, all sold under the forgettable and confusing model numbering system foisted upon the public by Smith & Wesson in 1957. The internal hammer DAO variant of the J-frame that’s now called the Model 642 was originally released in time for S&Ws centennial in 1952. The internal hammer revolver is still referred to as the “Centennial” model, which isn’t a sexy name but still packs more marketing punch than “642.”
Smith & Wesson’s J-frame revolvers remain among the best pocket rockets ever made; the Model 642 is perhaps the best of the best. The Centennial J-frame conceals well and won’t hang up or snag in a pocket or holster. It shoots very straight notwithstanding its tiny 1.875” barrel. I like the fact that it’s not made of plastic. The all-metal 642 sports a silver and gray finish; the 442 is the same revolver, but with a handsome blued finish. Internally, they are twins and they are the archetypes of the genre.
Small snubbies are pop icons in the gun world. Bad guys and good guys, off-duty cops and on-duty thieves, detectives and detectees, hit men, hit shows and hot chicks have all featured the Centennial as their quintessential concealed carry piece. Maestro, cue the Henry Mancini Peter Gunn Theme Music.
Should everyone follow suit and pack Gunn’s gun? No, because there are disadvantages to carrying any small revolver.
When looking at the disadvantages, we need look no further than the 642’s trigger. Sure, it has a smooth surface and a sinuous curve that begs to be pressed. But once pressed, the shooter will know why the little gun’s trigger isn’t knurled. It would leave a permanent, pressed-in tattoo.
Frankly, the trigger of any new Airweight is as stiff as a dead carp and cries out for a power assist. Or at least a windlass. Measuring the pull weight is tough since it exceeds the limit of most truck scales, but 200 kilos sounds about right. That’s a total exaggeration of course. Would you believe more than 12 pounds?
The upside of the heavy trigger is that it’s very safe and the gun is unlikely to go off accidentally. In fact, during the first range session, a new shooter may begin to wonder if it will go off intentionally. Not to worry. The revolver will fire every time.
There are two “cures” for what ails the trigger. A lot of dry fire will break in the revolver and soften the springs substantially, although even a well-used 642 trigger will never rival that of a top-notch DA pistol. Until the trigger is well broken in, use the crease of the distal joint, called the “power crease” of the trigger finger. It will save a lot of unnecessary wear and tear on tendons and ligaments.
The second cure, and one that requires no surgery except upon the gun, is a good trigger job from a competent gunsmith. The price is usually very reasonable and elevates the trigger from ridiculous to nearly sublime, enhancing accuracy and comfort without sacrificing function or safety. Some owners have swapped out the springs for something softer. I haven’t tried doing so, preferring to let a ‘smith have at it with his collection of little files.
Then there are the sights. Successfully using these snag-free pimples requires a bit of practice. Okay, a lot of practice. The two stunted organelles consist of a ramped front sight that’s fairly conventional in appearance but small.
The vestigial rear sight is an abortion. The rear sight seems like an afterthought; it’s as if one of the engineers suddenly smacked himself on the forehead one day because he forgot to sketch a rear sight onto the shop drawings.
The working part of the rear sight is squared-off U-notch that resides at the end of a trough running the length of the top strap. We all know what a good sight picture should look like, with the front sight in crystal clarity and the rear sight and target blurred. We all know the mantra “equal height, equal light.” We all know these things, but the rear sight on the 642 does us in when we try to apply them.
A dab of sight paint on the sights fore and aft can make them marginally more useful, but that’s as far as it goes. And if the rear sights don’t get the sight picture all flummoxed up, the short 4 5/8 inch sight radius will.
As to the recoil, .38 Specials don’t typically kick hard, even in +P. Loaded into a full-sized revolver with a four or six-inch barrel, .38s will have average shooters punctuating targets with the lethal efficiency of Jesse James or Annie Oakley. Accurate double-taps will be banged out faster than Tommy Lee paradiddles.
Loading the same rounds into a J-frame changes everything. With its two-finger stock and light weight, every press of a 642’s switch will make the gun jump like a frog with a hot poker up its heinie. Fortunately, while the recoil takes the gun off-target right away, the snubby comes back to point naturally and effortlessly in the blink of an eye. Although the J-frame is the definitive last ditch contact weapon, it was born to rapid fire.
Shooting standard pressure or +P ammo, the J-frame’s comfort isn’t compromised by its low mass. The Uncle Mike’s boot grips that are standard on the 642 insulate the shooter’s hand from any harshness. Even after a long range session, a shooter’s palm will be none the worse for wear. There are grips that look better or cost more, but none that I’ve tried work better than the 642’s standard grips. Kudos to Smith & Wesson for an inspired choice.
Kudos also to Smith for wringing the last bit of accuracy from this peashooter. Pictured is a two inch, five-shot group that I rapid-fired offhand at 5 yards with Fiocchi range ammo.
Results were similar with Hornady Critical Defense, Remington, Winchester White Box, Brown Bear and everything else I fed the 642. Groups opened up to about four inches at ten yards. At 25 yards, still shooting offhand, I was on paper but would hardly refer to the shotgun clusters I was shooting as “groups.”
Given my “ancient eye syndrome,” I was pleased with minute of bad guy accuracy at 25 yards, which is well past legitimate self-defense distance in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Really good shooters with their original eyes untouched by cataracts, astigmatism or farsightedness can replicate my 10-yard results at 25 yards all day long, without sandbags or other rests. The 642 is just as accurate as it needs to be, and maybe a little bit more.
This particular 642 came with the controversial internal lock that most serious shooters despise. Rumors about guns jamming because of these “lawyer locks” have proven to be absolutely true. Shooters are all individualists and may choose their own path when dealing with the lock. I note only that removing the lock mechanism does not leave a hole in the frame, because only the guts need to be removed. It’s a DIY job, or can be performed in ten minutes by a gunsmith when he does the obligatory trigger job on this revolver. I’d put up a video, but then you’d blame me.
The main argument against any snubby is its five-round capacity. Some people are uncomfortable with the notion of resolving serious self-defense issues with so few shots before needing a reload. Personally, I’m not planning on needing more than one shot delivered with pinpoint accuracy to the right spot. Thus, one bad guy versus five rounds of FU seems like an overlay to me. However, it’s the things that aren’t planned that get people killed. Like a second bad guy. And if I’m ever attacked by angry triplets, five rounds aren’t going to cut it.
So I adore snubbies, but not as my EDC if I’m only carrying one. In Massachusetts, we are limited to ten round magazines by virtue of an “assault weapons” ban that’s among the stupidest laws ever written. Since even a ten-round mag offers twice the ammo of my snubby, I tend to carry a pistol more often than the J-frame. There are situations, though, where the J-frame revolver is my best or only option. A gun is only a tool, after all, and using the right tool for the job is critical.
When I ride my bicycle or wear dress clothes, for example, the 642 carries and hides much better and more comfortably than any pistol that I’ve tried. That includes some diminutive .380s and 9mms. I carry my 642 around my home, too, where I have fast access to other guns to finish the fight if my snubby doesn’t. I never saw a reason for carrying a back-up gun, but if I did, the 642 would be my first and only choice. It’s the definitive BUG. And try carrying a Beretta 96 or a 1911 in an ankle rig.
Another word of warning to those who may be considering the purchase of a J-frame for a new shooter: don’t. A J-frame would not be a proper choice for noobs, especially women. Just ask Alicia Keyes.
Yes, it‘s cute. Yes, it fits small hands. Yes, it’s light. I’m referring to the gun, not Ms. Keyes, although I’m sure that she’s all of the above. That doesn’t mean it’s the “right” gun for everyone. The snub nosed Airweight is most suitable for experienced and enthusiastic shooters, not for people still searching for their handgun métier or a new Safe Queen. On the other hand, no experienced shooter should be without a J-frame, and my pick of the litter is the Model 642. Not only is it a great little belly gun, but the color goes well with any ensemble.
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Smith & Wesson Model 642
Caliber: .38 Special +P
Cylinder capacity: 5 rounds
Materials: Aluminum frame, stainless steel cylinder, crane and barrel
Weight empty: 15 ounces
Barrel Length: 1.875″
Overall length: 6.31″
Sights: Integral front, fixed rear
Action: Double action only
Finish: Matte silver
Price: $449 MSRP, less via Brownells
RATINGS (out of five stars)
Style * * * * *
A style icon for sixty years, carried by every hard-boiled TV cop and few crooks, too. Revolver purists may think that the Chief’s Special looks better than the Centennial or the ugly-duckling Bodyguard. Maybe, but a hammer spur will hang on fabric or leather, precluding pocket carry.
Ergonomics (carry) * * * * *
Fits in your pocket like small change. To protect the trigger (to say nothing of the owner’s privates), all pocket pieces should be holstered. Lots of good pocket holsters are available for J-frames, and they all work just fine.
Ergonomics (firing) * * * 1/2
Barely a two-finger grip, but that’s all anyone should need. Aftermarket grips are available for an all-finger grip. The recoil may scare newbies but is easily mastered through practice. The front sight is okay; the rear sight sucks like gravity.
Reliability * * * * *
There will be peace in the Middle East before this revolver has a misfire. Expect “five for sure” for another sixty years or more.
Customize This * * *
There’s a vibrant aftermarket for grips, including longer ones that enable a full handhold at the expense of concealment. Crimson Trace, LaserMax, LaserLyte, Laser Schmayzer (I made that up) and others provide enough laser choices to keep Goldfinger happy. There’s no rails on this revolver, so that’s it.
OVERALL RATING * * * * 1/2
With a high “power to weight” ratio and a street price well under $400, snubbies are deadly accurate, effective and supremely “carryable” self-defense revolvers. New shooters should avoid them. These are expert guns that shine in the hands of experienced pistoleros.
I like MAC (Tim) for my quick hits. If I want to get a real no-BS rundown of a product, I’ll look through Hickock45’s videos to see if it is covered. He does a pretty good job of going over a gun. I like Nutnfancy’s videos because they really cover a lot of information, but the guy just rubs me the wrong way. Something about the way he delivers information … I think it comes across like his opinion is the end-all/be-all; and he’s really no more qualified to give his opinion about much of that stuff than I am. It’s not arrogant, per se; but his opinion is delivered like it’s fact, and that tends to get under my skin.
Well, I’m glad TTAG is here. I like most of the article topics and try to view 10-20 comments on most of the articles. Running down a hundred or so “you suck”, “you statist”, “you anarchist”, “bootlicker”, “your 9 is weak/my .45 is awesome” comments just get tiring…I move on, there are usually several articles to review. The helicopter videos are fine but I’ll never have one so largely I skip them.
I like the legislation and court ruling articles and I find much of the legal analysis in the comments to be enlightening. I don’t study the gun reviews but do glance over most of them. I never read the comments section after a gun review. There’s too much “mine is better”.
Its good to keep an eye on police militarization and their Chief’s justifications are both hilarious and sad…you know the Italian mafia is running rampant in Edgeley, ND pop. 515. I find many of the derisive comments aimed toward the local PD in question can be humorous and applicable.
Articles about good/bad shoots and circumstances can make one think how might I have handled that situation. Comments from people who “know somebody and how it went down for them” = good
Ammo a ballistic tests = winner in my book. Comments on real experience -FTF/FTE per gun are useful too.
I’d like to see more articles about ammo loading/reloading, when it can save money and where it isn’t worth the investment. Articles about the reloading setup, real world prices on equipment and supplies are a big plus and with the “your mileage may very” disclaimer of course. Comments related to real experience would be valuable to me.
I’d like to see more about gun lockers and safes, fire ratings, security features and how some are better than others from somebody who can blow through the hype and focus on what features matter in a safe.
Some folks carry a small trauma kit to the range with them. I’ve seen kits at the store but have no idea what would make a good “gun shot” kit that could save my or someone’s life.
Far as I know: 1) Hole = stuff gauze in it. 2) spewing blood or missing limb = tourniquet
I’m sure there is more to it and what should be included in a kit. An article on the topic would be useful to me along with perhaps a video. Again comments from people who have lived it = good knowledge.
I realize this is TTAG but point of a firearm as a defensive weapon is staying alive. Reloading cheaply for more practice, keeping your stash away from criminals and not bleeding out are all part of it.
I’m through rambling…thanks for a great site.
Just imagine a game where you play as a diplomat. Fun!
I’m a Kalif. native who moved to Arizona MOSTLY because of the 2ndA issue, 18 years ago. Never regretted it for a number of reasons. Strange things tho’………the only vocal anti-gun attitudes I encounter here seem to come mostly from locals; and that from a small number. Most people seem to move here because of a job offer or to retire or because they don’t freeze their asses off in the winter. Me personally, I find myself kind of apathetic regarding guns at times simply because in all the time I’ve been here, carrying a gun, owning guns, shooting, etc. are simply a natural part of the scene here. Hell, you can carry without a permit here! We even have a ‘State Gun’ like other states have a State Flower. Go figure!
I am unclear why gun rights advocates are supporting such a bill. Whether it is a good shoot or not, at least in every law I have ever read, depends on what the cop/ person defending himself/another reasonably believed, not what was actually the case. If I make a credible threat and you act accordingly, you are fine.
On the other hand, when it is all said and done and the man is in custody, then isn’t there a difference between assault with a deadly weapon and assault with a toy? In both cases, the guy is guilty of inciting fear of life for some bad reason, but doesn’t the mens rea differ between actions where there is no intent to commit bodily harm but merely an intent to create a belief in such, and an intent where there is a willingness to carry it through?
Both are criminal, but the man who is truly armed should be treated differently (more harshly) because he was actually willing to carry through on threats.
First, this is a great review Ralph. I need to bookmark this one. When you said, “A J-frame would not be a proper choice for noobs, especially women”, which handgun do you suggest for them? And are you referring to learning to shoot or as a first time carry gun?
Oh and I just loved that Peter Gunn show.
I’m not Ralph but I think the best suggestion for a new shooter’s first gun is one they have actually fired for themselves at a range that has rental guns. There’s nothing like hands on experience to aid in that difficult and sometimes pricey decision.
Agreed. But which gun(s) should they first fire is the question.
As a rental junkie:
a) A 22 autoloader, preferably a Browning Buckmark, but a Ruger MK III will do.
then
b) A striker fired polymer 9mm autoloader: Glock, M&P9, Springfield XD/XDm, Ruger SR9. Pick the one most comfortable.
When someone is starting out, its a lot better for them when they can hit the target well.
A revolver may be “more reliable”, but in the hands of an average person, a single-action (ok, “Marketing Dual Action”) striker fired 9mm is going to shoot the best at the range.
DonWorsham, the best way for a newbie to find out what she or he likes is to go to a range with some rentals and try out a couple. A lot of guys love shooting a Smith & Wesson 686. It’s a very impressive gun. A Glock 17 would be a pretty good choice, too, if the blocky stock doesn’t seem too offputting to the shooter.
Many women seem to prefer a lighter handgun, and I’ve had good success with the Walther PK380 because the slide is easy to rack and the recoil is well-damped. But in the end, everyone is different and all shooters, new or experienced, will have their favorites. Some women prefer a 1911, and some men a S&W Bodyguard 380.
Personally, I’ve gone through many pistols, but I keep coming back to the wonderful J-frame.
I start folks off with a semi-auto .22 then the Glock 19/17 as well as the M&P Compact. S&W Model 10 then the 642. Depending on the individual this can happen in one session or over several.
I own three smith and wesson revolvers– a 642, a model 43 which is a .22 snub, and a model 67-1, the first two are j frames and the third is a k frame.
A k frame .38 is the go to for a home defense gun but it is hard to carry. I would suggest a k frame for all home defense newbs and even experts. When bad things happen the gun does its job.
Also, a k frame loaded with 148 grain wadcutters is a tame and super easy weapon. The little gun reviewed here would be fine with 148 grain low power wadcutters in it, even for defense, for a new gunner or woman because it may be mild and it may not expand but it will leave a large hole in whatever target you shoot.
Someone who has never fired a handgun before will do very well with a 3rd Gen GLOCK G-19 9mm. If they don’t like the feel, I would suggest a 4th Gen where the back-strap can be changed. Put that woman up against the same woman with identical credentials whom listened to gun shop sales people and ignorant shooting instructors who MADE her get a wheel gun and she will out shoot the lady with the wheel gun each and every time. Racking the slide using a special “female” technique of push/pull is a lot easier than overcoming a less than 2″ barrel, crappy sights and a HARD 10+ pound trigger pull……let alone the recoil. I’ve seen 10 year old girls fire a GLOCK G-19 9mm before. I hope your wife is over 75 pounds and at least 5 feet tall. xD
Very nice writeup…well done!
As to the recoil, .38 Specials don’t typically kick hard, even in +P
My 442 with full powered loads rolls back sharply into the web of my thumb. Probably this is a size of the hand thing. Fatter grips might help; I have the standard sized CT grips. Ten of those shots is about all I care to endure. Hand loaded down 20% or so in power factor however makes a practice round that I can shoot for a while.
Well written review. Very comprehensive.
While the DA S&W trigger pull is heavy, it’s smooth as butter. I can shoot my own S&W 642 better than some autos with a lot more grip surface.
One doesn’t really aim a snubby, more like point. So sights aren’t a priority. After all, it’s a self defense gun not a target pistol.
You’re absolutely correct. In fact, this revolver works even better when the muzzle is pressed against the BG’s ribs or in his armpit. The contact shot is an important weapon in the snubby’s arsenal. However, I do like to shoot targets and it takes time to achieve real accuracy at the range with a J-frame’s sights. Not only is accurate shooting fun, but it also builds confidence.
About that “belly shot” Cooper often talked about the blow back into a gun from a contact shot. He claimed it would turn semi and revolver into single shot I know I had a granule of unburned powder find its way under the star and it took a mallet to open the cylinder.
I carry a 442 every day. It tucks well in my waistband and with a pocket clip grip on it, is easily accessible.
“The Smith & Wesson Model 642 pictured here cost $332 NIB, excluding sales tax.”
That’s very close (withing $10) to what I paid for my Taurus 605 3 years ago. Where can the 642 be found for this price?
Four Seasons Firearms in Woburn, MA. See http://www.fsguns.com/fsg_new_hg.html
and scroll down. Take another 2% off the price shown if you pay by check, cash or debit.
Interesting. I sense “a disturbance in the force”, as if my collection were going to shift.
Ah, the Force is strong with this one.
S&W reduced the MSRP for all of their handguns recently…the 442 and 642 were selling for $450 or so are now more around $350.
Not sure if it was a response to the competition or the fact that they were somewhat overpriced, but they are priced very nicely right now.
At $350 they should be the go-to HCP firearm. Add a pocket holster and you have the perfect summer carry gun.
Check out Fleet Farm, They have some very good prices on firearms, That is about what I paid for my 642, An di have to agree with the author, My 642 seems to always find it’s way into the holster when I go out the door.
But lately watching the carnival taking place on the world stage, and our fearless leaders lack of resolve, I am in serious consideration of up gunning, The Religion of Pieces seems set on a 9/11 o2, and that isn’t even taking into consideration the new game those innocent children from the liberal welfare plantation love to play Polar Bear Hunting aka The Knock Out Game.
This is a great review.
However, there is one point I have to disagree with you on. I think that this the perfect carry gun for inexperienced shooters. My wife does not come join me at the range that often, so I wanted her to get carry something that was extremely easy to use and safe (without sacrificing simplicity). No manual safeties. That is just one more thing to remember to do when the stuff hits the fan. No failure-to-feed/extract. If the round doesn’t go off, squeeze again and go to the next one. And for someone that doesn’t practice much, those are the kinds of things you want to eliminate. Reloading is a little more time consuming, but doable with a speed loader. I agree that the trigger pull is very safe and heavy. I do not expect my wife to be defending herself at 10 – 25 yds. More like 3 – 5 yds, so the heavier the better. Since this is something she would carry in her purse, I have the extended grips so she can get all three fingers on the grip.
She has fired it at the range several times, and feels completely comfortable with it. The first time I had her fire it was by drawing from a purse and rapid fire at a silhouette at 5 yds. Everything was center mass in an 8 inch group. For the first time firing this gun, not bad. The idea is to hit the attacker center mass and she accomplished that. By the end of the session, her accuracy had greatly improved. Even with the +P loads, she didn’t complain about the recoil and she is a small girl.
Yes, shooting this gun with precision accuracy takes time, training, and experience. However, for an inexperienced shooter needing something to defend themselves at a 3-5 yd range, you can’t get any better. It is light weight, easy to conceal, and very easy to use. Point and pull the trigger. At three yards, even my wife doesn’t need to use the sights if it came to that. No worries about jamming and malfunctions (controversial lock removed). The only downside is the small round capacity and the slow reload time. But that is outweighed by other factors. With the short barrels and heavier loads (especially +p), the muzzle flash and discharge report have a certain clearing the room effect. Only the most determined attacker would stick around, hit or not.
I’d like to correct you on this point “The first time I had her fire it was by drawing from a purse and rapid fire at a silhouette at 5 yds. Everything was center mass in an 8 inch group. For the first time firing this gun, not bad.”
That my friend is “not bad” anytime, first time, every time. Good for her!
Agreed. Having seen far too many failures-to-fire on the range due to new shooters forgetting how to manipulate a more complex semi-automatic, I believe the first priority is getting a bang. Revolvers accomplish this. A hard-kicking little beast like a J-frame is not going to be fun for target shooting, but lots of people who own guns are never going to be recreational target shooters. At the very least, the lightweight J-frame will ensure that they have a gun, and 5 guaranteed shots. And they’ll remember how to use it even if they haven’t been to the range in years. Those interested in target shooting can always buy a similar S&W with a steel frame or in .22 for long afternoons of fun on the range that will also translate to proficiency with the carry weapon.
And don’t forget that there is no requirement to carry 5 +p rounds in it. The +Ps will smack your hand pretty good, but standard 38s are still as powerful as a 9mm and will shoot with comfort, even in an airweight.
Standard .38 spl as powerful as a 9mm? Maybe you mean 9mm Kurz, better known as the .380 ACP. Even .38 +P doesn’t make MVs and ft/lbs that a standard 9×19 can, and that’s not even considering the jump of 9mm parabellum +P. For that reason, I would love to see a 940 from S&W again.
Don’t get me wrong. I have a beloved 442. It goes with me everywhere. Can’t say enough good about it, carry it more than any of my handguns in 9mm, .22 lr/mag, .32 ACP, .357 Sig, .357 Mag, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .45 LC, etc, etc, etc. I own 15 S&Ws and this is my “go to” S&W. I think it has a perfect blend of carry, power and ease of use. I actually enjoy shooting +P through it and it shoots better than I can shoot, 100% reliably. I had a Kimber Solo for awhile, until it decided to stop working (which was the first time I fired it). The 442 quickly, efficiently and perfectly replaced it. It’s confidence inspirer as far as I’m concerned. If I ever had to be reduced to the infamous and much discussed “if I only could have one”, the 442 might be it. So long as I could keep my M14, that is.
Please click this link:
http://www.ballistics101.com/9mm_vs_.38special.php
You might notice how very close the two rounds are in reality, biases aside. The 38 has a larger diameter and heavier bullets, vs the 9s light projectile and higher velocity. Apx. equal, either in std loads or +P. If you compare +P 9 to std 38 you get a false result, much the same as comparing a squib to a full power load. Also, in today’s world, one can handload either round to the same exact pressure standards, but it will be over handbook max for the 38, which is still downloaded for the aluminum framed guns, even in +P.
Either way, both have proven to be adequate manstoppers, at least if one stays away from the 158gr RNL(the old blackpowder but load with modern smokeless.) in the 38.You might also notice that the article was written to DEFEND the 9mm against the 38. So any bias there, would be in favor of the 9, and against the 38.
Charles5, we are all different. My ex-gf also carried a snubby (a Model 638 with the shrouded hammer, formerly called the “Bodyguard” before S&W appropriated the name for its current plastic revolver). Equipped with a laser, she shot the 638 like Annie Oakley shot her rifle. However, most of the newbies that I’ve trained don’t handle a J-frame very well, and that includes men as well as women.
I agree that the J-Frame is not the easiest thing to shoot. Despite the fact that she does not shoot very often, my wife has quite a knack for it, which probably gives her an edge over other newbies. She holds her own with my Sig P226. To each his own.
Hey, that looks familiar!
I love mine. I’ve had it for years. It’s always shot pretty well and it seems to shoot better every time I take it out. It is my EDC weapon unless I’m in the woods. I don’t feel limited by the ammo count as a civilian.
A 342PD with Karl Nill boot grips is my constant companion. It is possibly the ultimate J-frame: chambered in .38+P (and therefore lighter weight than models built to handle .357 magnum, which I don’t shoot out of snubbies anyway), scandium frame (lighter!), titanium cylinder (lighter!!) orange ramp front sight (high visibility) and no lock.
A sweet revolver, that model is no longer made by S&W. They now offer the 340PD chambered for .357. It’s only 11.4 oz. and shoots .38 SPLs very well, but the MSRP is $1,019.00.
Nor do they make the 342Ti which sits in my pocket as I type this.
the 442 is the one i carry very dependable for sure added a pair of crimson trace handles for fast aiming…one small can of woop a$$
There are grips that look better or cost more, but none that I’ve tried work better than the 642’s standard grips.
Try the Crimson Trace LG-405 grips. Same profile as the stock boot grips but with better padding (air pocket) over the top of the backstrap and under the fingers, which makes a huge difference in controllability. Plus, they include a laser to aid in aiming and trigger control practice, and I can’t think of any handgun that benefits more from one.
http://www.crimsontrace.com/Home/Products/SmithWesson/tabid/199/Default.aspx
My 642 was small in my hands and difficult to hold well. I bought some Babolet tennis grip tape and slightly built the grip up. Fits my hands better and reduced the felt recoil. A much better gun for me to shoot.
Sections cut from a bicycle tire inner tube work well too.
Interesting read. We are getting rid of the 642 I bought for the wife several years ago because it is just too difficult for her to shoot. The small size is both a blessing and a curse. For my big hands, it’s waaay too small. We replaced it with a K-frame that is much more to her liking. Review to follow.
these are great , nice review. for beginners start them out with the anemic 38 s& w round. it works fine in thes guns lots less recoil.
If your cylinder will take a 38 S&W cartridge and ‘it works fine’, you need to have your gun checked by a gunsmith. The two are not interchangeable. The old 38 S&W has a shorter cartridge case, the cartridge case is bigger around,and the bullet diameter is larger than the 38 Special.
I used to carry Model 60 SW but with only 5 rounds it is a limitation. Why? Well in our city there are gangs, flash mobs, and more than 1 or 2 assailants all too frequently. A cop had a shootout last May with 1 assailant. Of course accuracy is the premier so 5 hits can be btter than 13 rounds out of a Glock 23 with all misses. That happened in our city last May in a shootout with a cop stopping a bike rider with no lights at 1am in the morning. The bike rider pulled out a Detective Special and fired six rounds at the cop striking him 6 times and killing him. He had a protective vest on. The cop fired back 12 times with his Glock 23 but on had 2 strikes to the assailants arms. Assialant up for muder 1.
Great review.
The 640, which is a more expensive steel framed version of the 642, is a much better gun, mainly because the additional weight makes the gun much easier to shoot. If the gun is easier to shoot, you’ll practice with it more, and have better odds of getting good hits when it counts. To the “I can’t carry a heavy gun” wusses – my 66 year old, 5’2″ mother in law carries a 640 every day. She found the 640 recoil tolerable and the 642 recoil painful. I’ve lost count of the number of women students we’ve had who were initially “turned off” to shooting by men who made their first shooting experience firing a balsawood snub and a 12 ga pump shotgun loaded with buckshot.
Been shooting for a while, Consider myself a gun nut, like revolvers but never owned a snubbie. Picked up a 442 pro series a couple months ago (no lock from factory, moon clips, hammerless, factory CT laser) and now it’s my carry gun quite a bit.
SUPER LIGHT, man you forget it’s there.
a little practice (you have to change your hold, the thumbs over the top works great) and it’s remarkably accurate. Especially good point shooter. All of a sudden I have like 3 J frames and the itch to get more.
Everyone I show it to likes it.
The first rule of a gunfight: Have a gun.
It’s light, easy to carry, easy manual of arms (pull trigger).
One of the things that was mentioned in the review, but needs to be mentioned again.
This gun can be shot while still in a jacket pocket and while still in the holster. No draw time is a HUUUUUUUUUGE advantage if you are in a SD situation. Repeat….this is a H-U-G-E advantage that is replicated by no other S.D. gun type and strongly sways the odds in your favor.
In my opinion this is the trump move for this gun.
The 642 remains one of the most popular self defense and police back-up guns in the U.S. Due to police and citizen demand, S&W now makes the 642 in a NO-Lock version. If you need to lock the mechanisim of a double action revolver, put a real padlock behind the trigger. Do not buy the INTERNAL LOCK version!
I’ve really enjoyed this review & associated comments. I would like to offer a couple of observations as a 642 owner with CT lasergrips. The trigger pull is quite firm, but has a very distinct “stop” at which it predictably breaks with minimal pressure. This is very useful for accuracy at a greater distance with slow controlled fire. Also, as stated by others, the 642 can be rapidly fired as well for max hits at short distance.
The other observation, partially addressed, is the poor rear sight. The 642 will shoot very low if using a traditional “top of front sight on horizontal plane with rear sight notch”. Literally, the front sight needs to have 1/2 of its height sighted above the rear sight notch to shoot proper elevation. I have never shot another firearm that has a similar sight picture.
However, I think the 642 is the best concealed carry option for me. With a Uncle Mike’s #3 pocket holster or Fobus ankle holster, I hardly know it’s there & no one else does, either. It goes everywhere with me just like my wallet & keys!
Odd that I should be replying to this thread 3 to 4 years later, but I am trying to decide how to help an adult daughter on a purchase. But to your point about the sight picture. I have the same issue with a Taurus 738 TCP. Perhaps it is my hands’ reaction to the snappy recoil, or maybe it’s the very short sight radius, but I have to raise the front sight the same way in order to shoot level. Then the little gun is very accurate. I painted the otherwise non-existent sights carefully with a toothpick in order to force myself to raise the front (only painted the lower half of the front sight.)
Good review, after 50 years of shooting I have come to realize this is one of many good CC guns.
I a little while back bought a 642-2 power port pro version and I sincerely love the little guy. Light, comfortable, well made and easy to conceal and carry. The only thing I did to it was have a gunsmith do a trigger job on it, and Wow, its even better now. Help me out with a leather pocket holster, as I have a Betz belt slide, but really want a good leather pocket holster.
Love this great little Smith !!!!
Donald, Mika’s pocket holsters are fantastic custom made by a former LAPD Officer currently in Wisconsin. I received mine 3 weeks ago. Quality, comfortable. Can’t even tell my 642 is in my pocket.
A link to his pocket holster;
http://www.frontiernet.net/~akim/pocket.htm
I loved the review and for the most part agree. My wife (an inexperienced shooter) bought one and loves it. She does have a bit of a time pulling the trigger but I have shown her how as per the article to use the distal joint area to help. She also has the Crimson Trace laser which really helps target engagement once it was adjusted properly. I routinely use a revolver over auto loaders as I enjoy the reliability per the article. My 1911 is my true love but for carry it can get heavy. In any event the article was well written and I enjoyed it.
I love this little airweight revolver! Very easy to conceal and the fact that there’s no hammer to snag on your clothing, makes it a perfect weapon for concealed carry!
why do you state that this gun isn’t for women to carry? what would you recommend for them. my ccw is a .380 sig 238. i think my wife should carry a revolver and thought 642 would be a good choice but now i’m not so sure.
Mike,
The only problem for female concealed carry with a J frame is the trigger pull which is very firm & very long. My wife & 2 adult daughters do not like my 642 for this reason only. A trigger job could likely resolve this issue.
I really favor the small-frame S&W revolvers for concealed carry. As per the article, they are extremely reliable and easy to use. I resommend the hammerless Model 642 since the long trigger pull is also a safety feature in that you won’t experience an accidental discharge – if it goes “bang” it will be intentional. Some folks want to point a revolver at a potential assailant and then cock it to show they are “serious.” By so dong, they are holding a revolver with a hair-trigger that will dischage at the slightest movement on the shooter’s part. If the potential assailant decides not to proceed with the assault and turns away, and the intended victim shoots him/her in the back, then it’s a whole new ball game. As far as the stiff trigger is concerned, I had one worked-over by a pistolsmith and it was smooth as silk when he finished. I recommend the Model 642 for novice as well as experienced shooters.
“In Massachusetts, we are limited to ten round magazines by virtue of an “assault weapons…”
You can legally own magazines with a capacity of over 10 rounds if they were manufactured prior to the AWB date in 1994 in MA. Only newer production pistols are affected by this since they don’t have any magazines in existence prior to ’94.
Other than that, very nice review. I plan on getting one of these soon for summer carry. But in the colder weather I stick with my Glock 19 since the extra layers make it easy to conceal.
im not rellylooking for any thing except an answer to a certin ? here it is. Are there any guns that take a small silver key? im asking because my mom collected guns befor she died and we found a small silver key that has a strong smell of gun powder.If you hav an answer email me at [email protected]
i still like all the wepons. but i do have to say that i’d like more verity of wepons.Don’t you agree?
i dont mean to be rude but i’ve seen this gun in 125 muder invesagations so its a bit old.and i don’t get why butiful wepons have to be used to kill people.
“Carson Kressley can’t limp-wrist a snubby.” — Not a bad review, but what’s with the homophobic comment? If I were you, I’d would just stick to reviews and keep your personal prejudices to yourself. No one needs to know you’re a bigoted POS.
I loved this article and all the pro and con arguments. I carried a J frame for years and only once wished for more ammo in the cylinder. It is an accurate point and shoot gun. When I needed more firepower I’d use my Kimber .45 , which, of course, is not a very concealable. But, oh what stopping power.
I enjoyed your article. I just went to the range today to try out my new S&W 642. It behaved nicely, and I don’t mind the firm trigger. If and when it really matters I don’t think it will be a problem. It’s very reliable and especially easy to clean. Great as an everyday concealed weapon. And I’m using the pink grips; what more could a woman ask for?! 🙂
Just read over this article today. My wife saw this in the store with the pink grips and had to have it. It is a nice little piece and will be in a gun vault by her night stand.
took posession of a 642 new in the box exactly one week ago. second time on the range today FTF after 7 rounds. sending it in for repair and then probably will sell it. so much for reliable revolvers… i am mad as hell especially since i talked my wife into one as well.
Tim,
Was the FTF only once or continual? Did the firing pin dent the primer? Have you tried the pencil eraser test for firing pin function? Condition of ammo? Could you provide more info?
Thanks so much for this review. I purchased my very own 642 today, which will replace a borrowed .38 revolver that is slightly larger and heavier. For a girl:), I shoot the larger handgun pretty well so I am excited to take this one to a range for a little practice. I am certainly not an “experienced” shooter; however, after handling several revolvers, I am comfortable with my choice. I am anxious about the trigger issues, so thanks for the additional comments.
Well done article, having owned the 642 for a week, am happy with it but am going to get a trigger job.
After a recent burglary, while my wife was home alone, she decided she might want to get a gun to keep in the house. My wife has never fired a hand gun, and it’s been almost 30 years since I sold my last one. We visited 12 gun retailers in our area, and all but one recommended a DAO revolver for her, but nobody had one in stock. (the one suggested a single shot shotgun)The 13th store had a couple of 642s in the case, so she got out her debit card, filled out the paper work and left happy because the search was over. I’d seen several reviews on this gun, but that night I saw this one, and another, that both said ‘ not for first time shooters’, without an explanation. Panic set in. After reading many of these comments, I feel much better. This gun was not purchased to carry, but to be with her in the house, just in case. Hopefully, she’ll never have to use it, but we do live very close to an indoor range, so of course, we will go there for practice.
If she (read ‘we’) decides she likes it (or not) maybe a range gun could be in our future. Forgot to mention, wifey is 4′ 10″ so we wanted the small frame. Looked at an LCP – she really liked it, but we went with the simplicity of the revolver.
Larry,
Don’t be too worried about your wife & the j frame 642. Start out letting her shoot .38 wadcutter ammo which is for target practice & typically loaded for light recoil. As she gets used to the sights, trigger pull, recoil, etc, then move up to semiwadcutter ammo & finally to hollow point +p Speer Gold Dot for self defense.
It’s not good to be a “know-it-all” so I came across this article and figured, maybe there is something new I could learn. Well I get to the part titled “Get Her Nekkid” and I see the picture “Tools for Mosins” with everything I’ve used, plus a dime. Then I start reading “The entire kit consists of the Nagant teardrop multi-tool, a bore light, a late-model Roosevelt dime and three headspace gauges.” You really dropped the dime on me! I was thinking, wait what is the dime for, what did I miss?!? Then, “Okay, the dime isn’t really necessary. I only put it in the picture for scale. The other items will definitely be required.” Yeah, that was fun. Very good article by the way. Keep up the good work.
I have an airwieight smith and Wesson and it had a catastrophic failure. Frame cracked and the back part bent and contorted using blazer ammo less then 200 rounds
are you OK? Any idea why? Did you buy it new? Or could someone previous run hot ammo through it? what series is it, 642, 642-2 ect….?
How about pictures?
Bought it brand new only 200 rounds of 38 special Plinker ammo frame cracked bad and the back part bent
Can’t figure out how to post pics but was a 638 series
That has the shrouded ( frame hump ) hammer, correct?
I have not heard of one doing that.
Since it’s new have you talked to SMITH & WESSON to see what / if they will replace it or anything?
I just emailed them will hear back from them in 5 days according to them. It’s so bad I can tell u there is no fixing it. I am hoping and have heard they are pretty good about taking care of this and hope they replace it with a new one.
And yes has the shrouded hammer that no one can seem to operate the single action part but I have no problem pulling the hammer back. Hoping they do take care of it because the only reason I bought a smith and Wesson was the reputation that this would last longer than I would live. I am 47 but my son was firing it when it malfunctioned.
A good stuff in this post.Thanks for sharing a intellectual post…
This is by far my favorite carry piece. The LCP is great in smaller pockets. But I prefer the 642 when pocket carrying (desantis nemesis holster).
I like the weight and feel. Not to heavy. But not so light it gets lost, meaning the tactile sensation of item in pocket. The nemesis N3 size holds it upright and ready. It is very comforting. It looks all business too. Nobody will think it is a water gun.
I really don’t care though. As if I have to use it my life will be in serious danger. It is not for show and tell.
For this reason I have not installed CT grips. But would like input on those who have. I was wondering any examples available of the laser promoting a bad guy quitting. The buckeye firearms forum has the research that over 90% of bad guys stop coming forward at the sight of a firearm. And was wondering if a laser adds to this. But make no mistake, if in a position to aim laser, I would be in position, legally, to fire a shot. but it would be great if they just got on all four and quit, when the laser is on them.
I know one can’t count on it. And that laser is just to see flinch control. Not necessarily aim for you. Or at least that is what I have read so far.
Any input, please give opinions or research below.
Becoming more and more far sighted as time progresses, I think a laser is a useful tool to have mounted. As a sudden situation occurs, grabbing my glasses will NOT be a possibility.
The laser ( if adjusted) should allow better aim locating of shot quickly, that otherwise could not be attained easily or quickly, the only alternative is simply point shooting.
Also even if glasses were able to be used to focus on the sights, the target would probably be blurred due to the glasses being TOO MUCH magnification for added distance.
I feel it is better with the lasers assistance to know where the projectile will hit.
WELL, I guess I may be two years late but 3 points. 1. My wife and I have 2 638 models and one 642. The 642 has crimson grips and I have carried it for almost 20 years. My wife started carrying 2 years ago and is very happy with the 638. I am her only “instructor” and teach her, grandchildren, children, and friends to point and shoot which is what Uncle Sam taught me in the 1960’s. The laser is a great training aid for eye hand coordination. Point quickly, squeeze grip to activate the laser, and repeat until you are always on target.
2. Women can do just fine with an airweight. We have other guns , smaller and bigger. She likes her lcp in warm weather but prefers the 638.
3. Who said the lcp was harder for cc. I have both and the 638 and 642 are wider , have a slightly larger footprint but weigh a tad less than my lc9. The lc9 is easier for carry but give me my wheel gun for always going bang.
Golden Saber +P 125, Gold Dot 135 SB, and now the new Lehigh penetrator grinding ammo looks great.
In a 4″ model 10 or 64, it appears the heavier 158 hps do open. If soft lead, as Remington has. there is also a vintage +p+ hydro shok which looks great in 148. Or the NyClads some swear by. I have a model 64 bedside, but pocket the 642 for doorbell duty. Not paranoid, realistic. I won’t be a sucker for a fake environmental science questionnaire!
If anybody has info or links to solid ammo choices in under 2″ barrels, please post below and share the info. Either FBI tests or legit studies (not milk jugs with wet newspaper). That being said, wet pack is surprisingly similar in penetration testing.
The White House has created a purpose of producing 19,700 kilowatt hours per yr using the panels; this quantity of renewable vitality would generate an annual savings of
up to $2,300 in a mean Washington D.C. residence. Since there aren’t any
details relating to the every day power use in the less-than-common residence of
the White Home, nonetheless, it’s unattainable to estimate how much cash will really
be saved by the photo voltaic panels.
Thanks for the review, including the funny homophobic, etc. digs. There’s way too much ostentatious PC sensitivity out there, and it’ll be the death of us.
A comment, though: I’ve always been under the impression that you have to choose your 642 ammo carefully, because of the lightness of the frame; that shooting +P, for instance, is dangerous. Is this not the case?
The barrel of my 642 is stamped “+P,” so I’d think it would be fine with factory ammo. I would not use anyone’s reloads, though, but that’s just me. I use the regular pressure Speer Gold Dots or Hornady Critical Defense, but I wouldn’t be afraid to use their +P’s in it. The cylinder and barrel are stainless steel.
Oh, and I agree with you about the current obsession with PC-ness.
Get the DeSantis Clip Grip for J frames for these guns.
It’s on clearance right now at Midway for about $15 bucks.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/579301/desantis-clip-grip-right-hand-smith-and-wesson-round-butt-j-frame-polymer-black?cm_vc=S014
Thank goodness somebody explained limp wristing to the p.c. police. Politically correct may have been a term used in the U.S.S.R. and the same type of people have promoted it here. As for women and the J-frame, perhaps the author’s experience has been that more women than not have a harder time with recoil.
I carried a small Sig for awhile. On the range, the slide bit by hand enough to draw blood a couple of times. Then, it ejected cartridges down the front of my shirt, burning me enough to leave a scar on one occasion — strike 2. Then, it jammed — strike 3. I sold it and bought a 642. It always goes bang when I pull the trigger. No cut hands. No burns. Only 5 shots, but they are dependable.
I must be an anomaly. I am both a new shooter and a woman. I took an intro to handguns course for women. I then took my CCW class. I went in with all intentions of getting a Ruger LCP or LC9, maybe even a Glock 43… but nothing felt as good in my hands as the Smith and Wesson 642 .38 Special. I will definitely say that I felt the kick much more than with the smaller semis, but I liked that. If I am shooting at the range (which I go to twice a week), I want to feel like I shot a gun. Maybe it’s the fact that I have always kind of wanted a revolver? I also added a laser. I know that I am not Annie Oakley and this is for defense, but sometimes target shooting is just fun. I don’t want someone to feel like they can’t get a certain firearm because they read that it’s not made for them. Would I get myself a .45? No. I am quite comfortable with this piece and hope to pick up a really neat Sig for my next firearm. For now though, I’m having the best time with this bad girl!
Good for you Melissa, Glad you found something that is comfortable for you. There are numerous choices available in the way of grips for the J frame, depending on what you want,. the real short original (boot) grip to longer more full size grips.
If you want something with a real smooth (but ) long trigger- but about 1/2 the pressure of the 642 trigger, check out the (hammer fired) Sig P250 or Sig P 320 (striker fired) Pistols.
The P250 racks real easy, racking the P320 might be a slight bit more because of setting the striker.
good luck as you learn and grow !!
P.S.
Oh, the Sig P250 is real neat in a 9mm compact or subcompact .
The only thing I would add is that I bought mine for $100 less than you paid and mine has the hammer spur. Other than that, yes it is a fine shooter, I have used it for years to teach at least 600 women how to shoot a revolver. It has been flawless with thousands of rounds run thru it. Like yours, mine was an old police workhorse that was cast off. Their loss and my gain as far as I am concerned.
HELLO FROM TEXAS..enjoyed this review..seems like all roads lead to S&W MODEL 642..I’M 69,,MALE WITH CCW and have learned from lots of owners and some shootist and some folks that need to grow up and remember that…. THE BITTERNESS OF POOR QUALITY REMAINS LONG AFTER THE SWEETNESS OF A LOW PRICE IS FORGOTTEN…AND DON’T PULL A GUN ON A MAN UNLESS YOU’RE GONNA USE IT,,AND DON’T STOP USING IT UNTIL THE JOB IS DONE…
She needs a lawyer who should tell her to shut her pie hole until all investigations are complete and she is cleared.
Just go through the sunroof lime you’re supposed to with the rifle.
Retired fed here. I recommend revolvers to female friends who want to shoot. 642 is nice, but not as cool as my 2nd gen det spl, which is deadly at clos range.(And which I carried for years).