I have been informed that the lowest grip profile - the grip least likely to "print" when S&W 640 is worn in a pocket holster - is the combination of "old style" standard grip with Tyler T-Grip. If this information is accurate, how significant is the difference of "printing" between the grip I describe compared with a Michaels/S&W soft boot grip?

That's how I carry my j frames.

I just pulled out an older Model 60 that I have the original grips and a Tyler T grip on and my 642 with the Spegal inspired Uncle Mike's boot grips on it for comparison.

I have never really thought of looking at this before but it does appear the magna and T grip does have a smaller profile in both the length, width and front to back.


I then pulled out my current carry 442 with wooden Spegal boot grips and they are even slightly larger than the UM's.

With a proper pocket holster I believe the issue of printing would be a non-issue with either.

Not a scientific study by any means but using my cheater glasses and a side by side comparison it appears the Magna/T-grip combo is the winner.

I put the T grip and old style grips on the Model 60 because I like the old school look. I really like the feel of the Spegal style grips though and don't see me changing.

If you do go with the UM's style a word of caution the new S&W grips won't work with many of the speed loaders.

Personally, I have been carrying revolvers for a long time now and one thing I have noticed... no one is looking at you, much less, with such intensity as to actually see that lump in your pocket or on your waist as a weapon. All that said, I do like the stock Magnas and a Tyler T configuration the best.

For me, printing has nothing to do with the desirability of the t grip and original wood stocks.

The advantage is the ease of carry, ease of drawing from the pocket (I don't use pocket holsters: too bulky, serve no useful purpose) and Shootability.

I think that anything else defeats the purpose of a j frame.

All my M 38's and M40's and Centenials are set up this way.

Easy carry is pointless if you can't grip the gun properly. Make sure the grip fits you.

If you are pocket carrying and your gun prints, your pants are too tight. You will never be able to draw in a decent amount of time.

I find that any gun will eventually permanently print (literally) if you do not use a pocket holster