S&W 642 LW

[drew-67]

Hi,
Eventually I am looking to get a companion for my 686...love this Revolver with a 6" barrel for Target/future Hunting and it's not bad to carry concealed this time of the year with a shoulder holster.
But, I also do a lot of hiking and checking the grounds where a handgun that I could slip in a pocket, would be a little nicer for this use.
I know where there is a used 642 LW...Was wondering what the difference is, if any, between this in a regular 642? I don't see a LW on the S&W webpage...
Also, what should I expect to pay and any thoughts good or bad for this model?

Thanks, Drew

[The Big D]

Suspect "LW" (lightweight) is an incorrect acronym for "Airweight."

Love my 642; it's my usual CCW.

Be safe.

[drew-67]

Thanks for the reply! Good to hear.
Yeah,I got that clarified on it being a 642...

Anyone else with thoughts on what I should expect to pay and any history good or bad for this model?

[Otis311]

you can get the 642 with and without the internal lock. I dont know if that makes a difference to you, but it should.

[The Big D]

Paid $350. for mine, NIB, in 2007.

Be safe.

[Dogguy]

Nice gun. As someone said "LW" probably just means "Airweight". All 642s are Airweights so that's redundant.

The standard everyday retail in my area for the 642 these days is about $475-500 last time I looked. It's not cheap and you may be able to do better. If you find a no-lock, you may have to pay a premium. Guns cost a bit more than they used--S&W's are not cheap.

If you have a choice of several samples, check the trigger pull and pick one that's the smoothest and lightest of the litter. These guns are not noted for their "butter smooth" triggers. The lock is not a major issue for me but I would pick a no-lock if given the choice.

The gun is designated for .38 Special +P but you probably ought to shoot it at first with standard ammo. The first five shots out my very first 642 was 158 gr +P LSWC bullets. I still remember it because the kick was a surprise. I now prefer lighter weight bullets.

Again, it's a nice gun. No chronic issues that I am aware of.

[5Wire]

I'm thinking the "LW" is a mistyped "LS" for Lady Smith. The "S" is just below the "W" on a QWERTY keyboard.

642 Lady Smith



642 No Lock

[drew-67]

Thanks for the replies!
I varified what the gentleman was refering to with the LW...
He was just using abbreviated text; so it stood for light- weight.
I had told him what I was looking for and he suggested a 642 which he considered light weight.

Thanks again!