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S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


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Old 09-20-2011, 02:09 PM
UGlide UGlide is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Default Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340

The J-frame model 642 appears to have a light silver-like painted finish, the 442 is black, and the scandium frame 340 appears to be a different black finish.

1. Can someone please explain the durability of each of the finishes on these J-frames?

2. If the finish flakes, rubs or scratches off over time (normal wear or an accident), can the guns be re-finished by a gunsmith?

THANKS!
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Old 09-20-2011, 02:45 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I was thinking of starting a similar thread.

I'm curious what the difference is in finish between the 442 and 642. I don't hear issues with the 442, but do hear of some isues with the 642 finish. However, I would have expected both to have the same "clear coat" since they're both the aluminum alloy frame.

Can someone chime in on this when addressing item #1 of the OP.

Last edited by gr7070; 09-20-2011 at 03:04 PM.
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Old 09-20-2011, 04:37 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Here is a pic of my 8 month old 442-1:



Doesnt bother me a bit. The gun is not a BBQ gun, its a save my butt gun. I would say if the finish is important to you, look for an older model. They seem to wear better.
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Old 09-20-2011, 05:02 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by UGlide View Post
The J-frame model 642 appears to have a light silver-like painted finish, the 442 is black, and the scandium frame 340 appears to be a different black finish.

1. Can someone please explain the durability of each of the finishes on these J-frames?

2. If the finish flakes, rubs or scratches off over time (normal wear or an accident), can the guns be re-finished by a gunsmith?

THANKS!
I've read the stories about the 642 finish and I'm concerned about it just as I'm concerned about the almost pristine finish on my '96 f-150. I would like to maintain them. For the 642 there is something called Renassance (sp?) wax. Seems to work well. I'm not interested in "battle scars". I realize wear and tear are inevitable, but, I will try to reduce if possible. I wonder if the 442 black finish may be more prone to nicks & scrapes than the 642. Since I only have the 642 I cannot really comment. Best.
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Old 09-20-2011, 05:08 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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In another thread by Tall Gunner he noted that S&W told him not to use Hoppes on his 642 -- it would eat his finish (ammonia based).
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Old 09-20-2011, 05:17 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I have carried my 442 daily for about 10 months now, in a pocket holster. I've put about 150 rounds through it in that time, and dryfired it enough to develop good trigger control. No issues with the finishso far...
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Old 09-20-2011, 05:26 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I have had my 642 for several years now. It gets carried quite a bit and shows only a tiny amount of wear at the corners of the rear sight. I would have to show the area to you and you still might not see it. I keep my frame waxed with Johnson's Paste Wax. No problems at all.
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Old 09-20-2011, 06:13 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Those of you with long use and little wear, what cleaning products do you regularly use? E.g. Hoppe's #9, RemOil, etc.
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Old 09-20-2011, 08:35 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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This is my 642-1, purchased in January. This picture was taken after about 7-7.5 months:



There's some other wear, but it's not as significant as this. Plus those pictures turned out even worse than this one. A photographer, I am not.

BTW, there is noticeably more wear on the backstrap now than when this picture was taken 2-4 weeks ago.

I will say this gun has been handled a lot in firing about 700 rounds and regular dry-fire practice drills. It's also been my primary carry gun during a hot and humid summer.

Having said that, I would probably purchase another 642 as I like the stainless steel construction. I think it's less likely to develop rust issues than the carbon steel of the 442 with the same level of care. That's more important to me than the appearance of the alloy frame's finish. At some point I'll probably get it refinished by someone like Robar.

If I do get another 642 I'll probably try applying some wax as I've read it can help. I don't have any Renaissance Wax, but I have used Blue Wonder Armadillo wax on my 65 with good results.

I almost forgot to mention that I've only used Break Free for cleaning in the time I've owned it.
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Old 09-20-2011, 09:27 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ContinentalOp View Post
This is my 642-1, purchased in January. This picture was taken after about 7-7.5 months:




I almost forgot to mention that I've only used Break Free for cleaning in the time I've owned it.
Apparently Break Free is the only thing you are suppose to use on it. I have a 642 I have been cleaning with the hopps #9 for about 5 weeks now and I havent had one spec of the finish come off. Granted it is only a 5 week period but I have put about 500 rounds through it in that time as well. Its fun to shoot
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Old 09-21-2011, 08:04 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I have a 638 that I use Flitz or Gunzilla on, I haven't had a problem after 7 monthes.
And it would be cheaper to have the factory refinish it for you then buying a new one, unless you want an extra.
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Old 09-21-2011, 09:09 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Gotta 442....clean chamber and charge holes with Hoppe's #9, and a slight spritz on the outside with Remoil and a quick rag. No probs so far.
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Old 09-22-2011, 01:33 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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In my limited experience, the frame finish on current production 442's holds up better than the frame finish on current production 642's. Since I am a big fan of long term durability, I go with solid stainless 95% of the time and carry a 640, unless I positively must have the lighter 442 for specific summer wardrobe reasons. The solid stainless lasts practically forever, and you can use all the hoppe's you want. I know it wasn't listed in the three choices, but it's true, nonetheless.
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Old 09-22-2011, 09:35 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I am surprised to see less than 1 year old guns looking like that. I have a black 438 that shows no signs of the finish wearing off. I do not baby it either. I've only used breakfree on all my guns. It was good enough for my m16 so I figure it's good enough for my personal guns. Maybe that's why my 438 still looks good. If it does wear i'm not going to worry though. I like battle scars since I put my guns to work. I'm not a collector and my guns each have a job to do.

The bad thing though is if you decide to sell, that wear will kill your resale value.
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Old 09-26-2011, 11:15 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Good grief. That backstrap looks worse than the one that's just a little shiny on my 638. I bought that the first year they made 638s. Carry it in an ankle holster just about every day.
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Old 09-26-2011, 11:19 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Just looked it up, 1989.
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Old 09-28-2011, 05:50 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I have a 340SC and the finish is coming off it pretty bad. I don't clean it, and it gets carried in pockets, ect. I've been looking at having someone coat it to make it look a little better, but most of the vendors say no scandium.
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Old 09-28-2011, 06:17 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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There was a member here who had his silver colored, scandium frame 332 (or 331?) refinished in black by the factory. It turned out quite well based on the pictures I saw.

I think you have to resign yourself to the fact that the alloy framed revolvers are going to show wear rather quickly.

Smith is now producing the Model 640 Pro Series which is all stainless and doesn't have the internal lock. You can purchase one of these for practice and primary carry and then switch to a 442/642/340 when you need something lighter.
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Old 09-28-2011, 06:26 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Gee, my 642 gets shot quite a lot and carried often. I have had it for 3 or 4 years and it shows almost no wear. I do keep a coat of Johnson's paste wax on it. I really think it helps. Got to wear through the wax before the clearcoat can wear. Just a matter of simple physics.
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Old 05-28-2014, 11:59 AM
luv2rideWV luv2rideWV is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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My 442 has been carried for four years in a Galco horse leather pocket holster and shows significant ware along edges. Some corners are even going flat. On days I perspire, the gun needs to be wiped off to prevent rust. The gun is carried 24/7.
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Old 05-28-2014, 05:49 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by southchatham View Post
I am surprised to see less than 1 year old guns looking like that. I have a black 438 that shows no signs of the finish wearing off. I do not baby it either. I've only used breakfree on all my guns. It was good enough for my m16 so I figure it's good enough for my personal guns. Maybe that's why my 438 still looks good. If it does wear i'm not going to worry though. I like battle scars since I put my guns to work. I'm not a collector and my guns each have a job to do.

The bad thing though is if you decide to sell, that wear will kill your resale value.
I think it has a lot to do with what part of the country you live in. I live on the Gulf Coast (15 miles as the crow flies), and I believe the salt air and humidity are really bad for those clear coated 642s. I had (emphasis: "had") one that corroded up in about five months.....

I prefer stainless guns, which will show rust here too, if not cared for, but they don't make Model 60s in 38 Special anymore. I prefer the all steel versions of the J-frames, but I don't want or need a 357 mag in them. I'm very OK with the 38 Special steel J-frames........
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Old 05-28-2014, 09:48 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I've had my 642 for 3+ years. Carry it nearly every day. Front pocket, Desantis Superfly.

I have never wiped it down after carrying it. I live in Texas. And I bike a lot, it staying in my sweaty pocket all day.

While the finish has worn plenty on the edges from holstering and unholstering. But never even a hint of rust. I'm actually amazed with as much sweaty carry and no maintenance that it hasn't shown the slightest corrosion, ever.
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Old 05-28-2014, 10:24 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I'm an armorer at my department, and one day, one of my co workers came to me and asked if I would run his 638 through our ultrasonic cleaner. I said, "sure" and in it went. Well, when it came out after its cycle, the finish on the gun was flaking off. The chemical we use in the machine is non toxic, so it can't be that corrosive. What I'm thinking happened, is the ultrasonic action may have shook the finish loose.

I'm no scientist, and I don't claim to be an expert, but I don't think that Smith and Wesson had that machine in mind when it came up with this particular finish for their guns. Not a knock against Smith, it was just an unforeseeable and unfortunate occurrence. By the way, the officer doesn't love the gun any less.
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Old 05-29-2014, 06:57 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Just as a side note, back about 30 or 40 years ago, that old black anodized finish that was used on all the Airweights of the day was quite durable compared to the finish used today. It actually protected the aluminum alloy of the frames, and only wore off, and I never saw one corroded like my clear-coated specimen was. I wished Smith & Wesson would return to using that older process on the newer guns. I would have no problem with a Model 642 that was a pinto with a black anodized frame and a stainless steel cylinder and barrel. But that's just me......
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Old 06-19-2014, 09:46 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Default Durable finish on J-frames 642 vs. 442 vs. 340

642 001.jpg

642 002.jpg

642 003.jpgI also have a concern about the finish on the 642's, after about 18 months of IWB carry, I've noticed some pitting around the handle of my 642, is this normal, I'll try to send some pictures of mine, let me know if this is normal wear, and how could I have prevented it from doing this?
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Old 06-19-2014, 10:14 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I have a 637, 638 and a 642 which I rotate. They all get a detailed cleaning and waxed a couple of times a year. I try and wipe them down after a day IWB.

After a few months I swapped out the 638 factory rubber grips for some wood, when I removed the stocks, I noticed what looks like worms under the finish, others on the forum have reported similar.

The 642 wore rubber Hogue Batam's for over a year, the finish under the stocks shows lots of "worms. Similar to stevep24255's first picture.

The 637 I swapped out the stocks immediately for wood, other than the usual high point wear the finish looks great. No issues under the stocks.

I believe that the rubber stocks trap moisture and speed up what ever the failure mode is.

stevep24255, I noticed that your grip screw looks rusted also.
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Old 06-19-2014, 10:32 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Find a M 38, 49, 40 or 42.

They don't make 'em like they used to.

Any S&W with a 3 digt model number os a problem.

Just my opinion, of course.
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Old 06-20-2014, 12:00 PM
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The difference between the 642 and the 442 is the color of the paint they use. The durability is that of any paint. Most of the air-weights sell for under $400. For that one gets a reliable handgun with a lifetime warranty from a reputable manufacturer. They are meant for concealed or holstered carry and hard use.....not for lookin' pretty. If you want more durability spend another $250 for an all stainless model.

That said, it seems that the response S&W gives to most folks with these firearms, is that they will, under warranty, refinish the gun one time.
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Old 06-20-2014, 12:16 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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i have found both finishes to be a lot more fragile than blue on older guns. If you use Hoppes #9 on either one it will damage the finish.


I picked up a 38-2 in electroless nickle as a carry gun. It lives in a pocket holster during the summer months. 3 years later its still going strong.

Another solution would be to pick up and finish challenged gun and have it coated with Black T.
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Old 06-20-2014, 12:56 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I've found this thread to be very interesting and I appreciate all the responders. I've read here that there have been problems regarding the finishes on alloy frames but I didn't know it was this extensive. I own several J frames, my first was purchased in 1979, but all are blue or stainless and they all look nearly perfect with years of use. The only alloy frames I own are on the model 39 and 39-2. As noted above these guns have a beautiful black anodized finish that still looks beautiful today even after 60 and 40 years. I think if I have future needs for a J frame I'll be looking for older examples.

Last edited by loeman; 06-20-2014 at 12:57 PM.
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Old 06-20-2014, 01:48 PM
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Don't obsess about the finish on a carry gun. Yes, we all want to be careful and maintain them as well as possible to protect our investment and so they look nice, but wear is inevitable. The older Model #37's, #38's and #42's are great, but parts are more scarce every year. Buy a current 442 or 642 and enjoy it. When the finish wears send it to Robar in Phoenix (Firearm Finishes, Custom Weapons, Gunsmithing | Robar), and get it refinished in electroless nickel or Roguard and get the internals NP3 treated. It will have a better than factory finish and have a slick action to boot. After that it is unlikely that you will ever need it refinished again. If it does Robar offers a lifetime warranty on Roguard and NP3.

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Old 06-21-2014, 01:08 AM
snowman.45 snowman.45 is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I got back a 340Sc I had purchased new several years ago. When I got it back, it looked like some of the 642s and 340s shown above. I took some Scotch-Brite pad and thoroughly scrubbed the gun after a complete disassembly, removing the rest of the finish and roughing the surface in preparation for a new finish. I then sprayed the frame and crane with titanium colored KG GunCoat and heat-cured it in the oven for the prescribed amount of time. The finish matched pretty well with the titanium cylinder. If I experience any wear problems with the KG GunCoat, I'll have it refinished in Ceracote in a similar color.
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Old 06-21-2014, 05:56 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Default 340PD

I have carried this one for about 10 years in a Mika pocket holster, and it has been shot a lot. You can see the grips are worn down, but Craig Spegal is making some for me as we speak. Great carry gun.

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Old 06-21-2014, 06:07 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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^^^ Finish looks pretty dang good for 10 years of pocket carry!
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Old 06-22-2014, 05:55 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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You have to remember to shake out the sand from your pocket holster every night. Or else it will wear the finish rapidly.

I agree with the others who posted not to worry about the finish, it is a $400 carry gun, how long does it have to last to pay for itself? If you get ten years of use out of it, that is only $40 a year. Likely you will get a lot longer.

I went with black finish, because it conceals better, Ed
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Old 06-22-2014, 06:14 PM
regalsc regalsc is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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My 340 m&p that I just sold to a forum member after 2 years shows no wear at all anywhere. Carried in a leather holster that fits it so it doesn't move around & after shooting I wipe off the carbon with a damp paper towel before reholstering so the residue does not get imbedded in the holster.
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Old 02-26-2017, 11:27 PM
blackburn570371 blackburn570371 is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Default 340sc

[QUOTE=9399NOLES;136127050]Apparently Break Free is the only thing you are suppose to use on it.
i have the 340sc and its finish looks like this one also, should i seed it back to be refinished ?
thanks
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  #38  
Old 02-27-2017, 12:01 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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My 442, after 12 years and about 2500 rounds, has held up quite well. Impressed.
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Old 02-27-2017, 12:05 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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The finish on modern (3 digit model) Smiths is pretty unimpressive.

Older 2 digit model guns do much better.
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Old 02-27-2017, 12:39 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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There was another finish option available for 442s early in their production.

I just bot a 442 with factory Nickel finish made about 1995.

I'll see how Nickel holds up compared to the black versions.
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Old 02-27-2017, 12:41 AM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cal44 View Post
There was another finish option available for 442s early in their production.

I just bot a 442 with factory Nickel finish made about 1995.

I'll see how Nickel holds up compared to the black versions.


By my observation, it does not hold up nearly as well as the black finish. Never owned the nickel 442 myself but have seen quite a few.


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  #42  
Old 02-27-2017, 01:00 AM
shouldazagged shouldazagged is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by loeman View Post
...I own several J frames, my first was purchased in 1979, but all are blue or stainless and they all look nearly perfect with years of use...I think if I have future needs for a J frame I'll be looking for older examples.
Good choice, I think.

I've read a lot of reports here of the clear coating on the 642 peeling and flaking, but very few complaints about the black finish of the 442.

If you don't find the weight of an all-steel J-frame burdensome--I don't--but are concerned about finish, that's the way to go. I chose a stainless EDC for durability myself, but I love a fine blue finish.
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  #43  
Old 02-27-2017, 01:21 AM
silversnake silversnake is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
Originally Posted by shouldazagged View Post
Good choice, I think.

I've read a lot of reports here of the clear coating on the 642 peeling and flaking, but very few complaints about the black finish of the 442.

If you don't find the weight of an all-steel J-frame burdensome--I don't--but are concerned about finish, that's the way to go. I chose a stainless EDC for durability myself, but I love a fine blue finish.
I agree. Stainless is my preference, but between the airweights I would take the 442. If nothing else it is less likely to be spotted in the pocket, because of the black backstrap.

Personally though I like the look of the old Model 37 better than anything offered today.
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  #44  
Old 02-27-2017, 02:58 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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Quote:
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I've had my 642 for 3+ years. Carry it nearly every day. Front pocket, Desantis Superfly.

I have never wiped it down after carrying it. I live in Texas. And I bike a lot, it staying in my sweaty pocket all day.

The finish has worn plenty on the edges from holstering and unholstering, but never even a hint of rust. I'm actually amazed with as much sweaty carry and no maintenance that it hasn't shown the slightest corrosion, ever.
After about 6+ years of nearly every day, all-day carry (6+ days a week, 12+/- hours a day); riding a bicycle at least half of those carry days; working outside often; with little preventive maintenance (little, not inappropriate, i don't wipe it down daily, it is inspected to ensure good working condition); my 642's finish still looks largely undamaged. It is worn on the front edges from holstering, but there is definitely nothing resembling flaking or any other inappropriate wear whatsoever. Still no rust/corrosion.

Only Rem Oil or CLP have touched it w/r to products. I suspect this (Hoppes #9?) may be a big issue with others.

I'm impressed how incredibly well its finish has held up over many years of significant use in tough environments with little concern given to its aesthetic care - i do not neglect its functional care.

Last edited by gr7070; 02-27-2017 at 03:07 PM.
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  #45  
Old 02-27-2017, 07:21 PM
jnichols2 jnichols2 is offline
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I recently bought a 637 (same finish as a 642) and a 60 (all stainless steel).

The 60 will outlast me, but weighs 50% more than the 637, so I carry the 637 more often.

I bought the 637 because I was told the finish would last better than the 437. I see from this thread the 437 would hold up better. I have some Renaissance Wax for my old Colts, and will apply some now. If the finish starts to show wear on my 637, I just won't worry too much, I'll keep putting it in my pocket.
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  #46  
Old 02-27-2017, 07:28 PM
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Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340 Durable finish on J-Frames? 642 vs. 442 vs. 340  
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I only care about my 642 going bang when I pull the trigger. Whatever scars it earns from pocket or AIWB carry will be badges of honor and nothing to fret about.
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  #47  
Old 02-28-2017, 04:54 PM
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When I sold my 8+ year old 642 it looked as good as new.
Wiped down after each shooting session and then coated with high quality auto wax.
Carried in soft leather pocket holster or soft leather belt holster.

But, if it had worn I wouldn't have worried.
With the finish sand blasted off your 442/642 will still keep shooting many, many years
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Old 03-01-2017, 12:33 AM
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My 442 has been in my pocket for the better part of 5 years and still looks good. I use a cheap uncle Mike's pocket Holster.
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