How does the double action trigger pull of a Model 36 compare to that of a Model 442? I have little used (and very nice) Model 36 and am considering the purchase of a Model 442 for pocket carry because of its lighter weight. I'll be keeping the Model 36 because its just so "darn good lookin' ".

It depends when they were made. The earlier Smiths (maybe including your 36, depending on when it was made) oftentimes had smoother trigger pulls than the newer models. I wouldn't worry about this too much though. The 442/642 are acknowledged by many experts as among the best pocket guns and/or CCW pieces out there. You can always get the trigger slicked up a little.

I would buy the 442 without hesitation and of course keep the 36 if you can. In addition to being lighter, the 442 is a better pocket gun because there is no hammer to snag on your pants when you draw. I do NOT like the hammer on the 36--you don't want to ever use single action in a self-defense situation or be accused by a prosecutor or plantiff's lawyer of accidentally firing in single action. You can always bob the hammer on the 36 (or like I did with the 60 I carry, drop in a factory-bobbed replacement hammer so you don't have to chop up the hammer) or get it made DAO.

So I would buy the 442 and not worry about the trigger. Then get yourself a Mika's pocket holster or Desantis Nemesis pocket holster and carry away!

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Aaron Terry

I have a 642-1 and a 36-3. While the trigger pulls are similar, the 642 feels smoother, probably because it has been fired more often. The trigger action on your new 442 will certainly benefit from regular exercise.

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A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.