i have a charter arms off-duty and a S/W 638 which is the shrouded hammer version of the 642. The 638 has a slightly smoother action but not by much. I much prefer the grips the CA off duty came with and have never changed them...Got half a dozen grips for the 638 and none are as good as the CA grips. The CA is more than 3 ounces lighter and i can tell you that makes a difference as I pocket carry. Both guns have been 100% reliable. The CA is more accurate for me because of those factory grips. Sights on the CA are superior to the sights on the S/W. The CA is only 12 ounces but is all metal and no exotic stuff to worry about what I use to clean it. I really like my S/W 638 but i carry the Charter because its lighter and i shoot it better