I believe that there is a limit to nearly everything. In my opinion, the S&W 642 represents the lower weight limit for a .38 Special revolver for several reasons. Reasonable wear and reasonable recoil are two that come to mind. The alloy frame with a steel cylinder is light ENOUGH for me and is totally practical. Those pictures illustrate it much better than I could state it regarding the use of a titanium cylinder - too light and not particularly durable.

I am not a particular fan of "trick" bullets either. A good 158 gr lead Hollow Point with a Plus P load is enough for me.

Every body has their opinion and that is mine. Kind of like the artistic term "the golden mean"...

Dale53