I just acquired a used S&W 642 with the alloy frame. The little fired casing packet indicates a 2007 model year. Frame shows quite a bit of wear, which I have since read is pretty common on these. Because of the wear, I was a little bit hesitant to go through with the deal, but my gut said it would be fine. I had a chance to shoot it and must say that I am very pleased with it. I plan on using it as my EDC for summer, and though I don't like the looks of a worn gun, at the same time I won't need to get mad because I scratched a new gun...the wear marks are already there. I am now looking forward to adding another S&W J-frame to my collection.
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Congrats -- you did good. The 642 is an excellent concealed carry, personal defense revolver.

Buying it in the shape you did means: 1) somebody else spent the time and money to put rounds through it and make sure everything worked right; and 2) you won't have to fret about putting carry wear on it -- already taken care of, so you won't feel bad when you add more.

All this and you got to save a few bucks, too, versus buying new.

Pretty good deal for you, I'd say.

Modern Centennials like your 642 are meant to be carried, used and taken comfort in knowing they're at hand; safe queens they're not meant to be.

Dude, the 642 is an EXCELLENT BUY! It's light, compact and capable of delivering a serious punch...whether used or new it's a great CC revolver! Congratulations!

Nothing wrong with a little honest wear.........

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Chewy

The wear only adds character.....

Safe queens can be supermodels
Carry guns are working folk!

Mine shows more wear than that and still functions fine.

You say you have other J-frames. Congrats. You passed our test. Discerning shooters have more than one. Sounds like your 642 has found a good home. I have a thing about folks who 'kitchen table' their guns and do not tell the next owner or the LGS they sell it to. From the way you speak, you've already looked into this.

And remember, wear is not abuse. Good shooting!

I just bought one today! I was at a LGS for another matter and asked if he could order S&W's. He asked me what model I was looking for and I said the 642 no lock. He reached into the display case and pulled out a brand new one! The price of $480 was not a real bargain, but he absorbed the sales tax so it is a fair price. I have to wait the required 3 days here in Illinois so I can pick it up before the weekend. My 640 has been my primary carry gun, but the 642 will takes its place as soon as I get to shoot a few rounds through it! I was pleasantly surprised with how much lighter it feels than my 640, which will make a real difference with pocket carry. Since I loaded the 640 with 38 +p and can do the same with the 642 I don't feel I am giving up anything as compared to the 640. The dealer wanted to make me an offer on my 640 (I was carrying it in a Remora holster) but I decided I didn't want to part with the 640 just yet.

Well that's it I am going to buy a 442 pro now, because I only have a model 36 in the collection right now.

Sorry, I re-read my OP, and what I meant to say is that this is my 1st S&W J-frame, and am so pleased with it that I will add more S&W J-frames in the future. I just really like the way they feel in the hand, the way they shoot, and they way they ride in the IWB holster. I also am not sure what 'kitchen table' their guns means? Thanks.

He is talking about guns that have been worked on by the owner, perhaps on the kitchen table. This would be to "improve" the action. Some know what they are doing, and some don't. The ones that don't can make the gun dangerous, or ruin the action.

Best,
Rick

Still looks fine to me and as others have said, great gun for CC! Congrats!

Looks good to me, I like the Uncle Mikes grips.

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Be obscure, clearly.

I also just picked up a 642. Going to order do Altamont boot grips for it. Owned a 442 previously but mistakenly sold it. Glad to have a J frame again.

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