Another "get both" vote, but we all know that isn't alway practical.
I've knuckled under and now own both (don't tell my wife)... Both of mine are "no lock" versions --- 642-1 & 640-1 Pro Series.
The 642 has a unique role in my carry rotation. With it's light weight and small size it is my only true pocket handgun. I can pocket carry it in almost any pocket at any time with little regard to belt type or type of pants/shorts. With +P ammo this little 38 stings my hands and definately isn't an "all afternoon range gun". The slick, hard Altmont boot grips don't help much with recoil, but they make for a snag-free extraction from deep in my pocket.
My 640 is in a blurred rotation role. With its weight I have regulated it to belt carry. Logic would say if I'm carrying 23ish ounces on my belt, why not carry the same weight in a plastic gun with three times the ammo and quicker reloads? Good point, but I'm hard-headed and sometimes I just want to carry a wheel gun. Since my 640 J frame is smaller and lighter than my K frames, the 640 gets the "on the belt wheel gun" nod.
I find 357 magnum rounds in my 640 are manageable, but some loadings are quite a handful. When firing 357s I get some extra velocity, quite a bit more recoil & blast, and my hand disappears in a fireball when I touch it off. Because of this I generally carry my 640 with 38 +P.
Some would ask, If I'm electing to carry my 640 with 38 +P ammo why not carry the much lighter 642? Good question... I do like the 357 Magnum option the 640 provides for those times I want the extra power such as in the woods. This versatility, along with a more pleasurable range time with 38 practice rounds are some of the benefits of an all steel J frame.
You will need to determine which role you are trying to fill when you purchase this next J frame. The problem is, before it is over you will likely want (read: NEED) both!
Let us know which you pick.
Edmo
