Would the grips available for the earlier "J" frame models fit the later ones like the 342? The grip frame on the model 36 and 37 for example, look longer than the later 3 digit "J" frames. Are only shorter grips available for the later "J" frames? I am looking at buying a 342 to replace my old model 36 with bianchi lightning grips on it but I have a big hand and like a long grip that fills the hand. ( I love the Bianchi ) Before I buy the 342, I wanted to know if I could get longer grips for it.

Thanks for any reply.

Welcome to the forum! Grips that fit any model-numbered round butt J-frame (like your model 36) will fit a model 342. The only J-frames that used a different size grip (other than square-butt models, of course) were the very first ones built in the early 1950s, which used shorter I-frame size grips. Later in the '50s S&W lengthened the grip slightly, and that same grip size has been used on all round-butt J-frame models ever since.

If you're looking for a long, hand-filling grip for the 342, I'd suggest a set of Uncle Mike's combat grips. They're very comfortable, and should fit your hand almost exactly like the Bianchi Lightning grips. (I used to use those, too! They weren't very attractive, but they were extremely comfortable and made shooting the J-frame a lot more enjoyable.)

Here's a set of Uncle Mike's combat grips on a model 042:



Another option would be Crimson Trace LG-305 lasergrips. I just put a set on another J-frame this weekend, and found them to be nearly as comfortable as the combat grips pictured above. They're a bit smaller, but still allowed me to get all three fingers on the grip.

Thanks for the detailed reply and the picture DC7! Because of your answer, I bought the 342 at the show this weekend. It's in pretty good shape and I bought it from the original owner. So much lighter than my mod.36.

Thanks again!

Would you be selling the Bianchi "Lightning Grips"?

I see the stock Hogue grips as perfect for my very light 342 AirLite Titanium, especially when shooting Speer Gold Dot 135 gr.+P .38 spl. So much so that I just ordered a set today from S&W for my no-lock 642-2 - no more rusted grip screws.

My 342 AirLite Ti below..., S&W gave her the PD black refinish. All she needs is a red ramp front sight - got a quote on that work while I had them on the phone.

My first preference is the Crimson Trace grips mentioned above (that's what I have on my daily carry 642). Another good option, if you don't want to spring for the Crimson Trace grips is the Pachmayr Compacs shown here:



I have rather large hands and find them quite comfortable.

Dale53