I have owned a 342 and 342PD (both pre-lock) for many years with the personal choice of ammunition for all my .38 Specials being the Speer 135Gr +P GDHP.

The above load is a tad snappy but very manageable out of the 342/342PD of which I would shoot anywhere from 50-100 Rounds a session.

The best concealed carry J frame grip configuration for my hands has always been OEM standard wood with a Tyler T Grip which I have on my 640 and 642PC. But what I absolutely love on my 342 and 342PD are the CTC LG405’s, the rubber over mold on top of the polymer base and air pocket at the top of the back strap make this grip as comfortable as it gets for me in this compact of a package.

So to make a long story, short, IMHO the 342/342PD are great guns that require a tad bit more TLC than their steel cylinder cousins.

Enjoy BB