I just came across a good buy on a S&W 642. Not big on reloading but I have worked up a couple of loads. Right now I am loading a 125 grn LSWC over 5.0 grns of W231 with CCI 500 primers. I am curious to know what other loads would be good. When it comes to reloading I am still a rookie, suggestions are welcome.

I reload 3 gr of 231 behind a 148gr wadcutter for most practice, and end the practice session with 5 defense loads. Most people I know who try to shoot a lot of heavy loads in a stubbie develop bad habits (flinch).
My personal choice in a defense load is the Speer 135gr SB.

I also shoot hbwc 148 gr with 3 gr of 231. A very accurate load. OKFC05 is right. My 642 kicks like a mule with plus p loads, not fun.