Smith and Wesson said 'Don't do it!'

[IllinoisCCW]

I purchased a 642 with an internal lock. I've read many blogs about the problems the locks are causing...most concerning is that it could engage when firing. This is a personal protection firearm for me and don't want to worry that it won't function when needed.

I contacted Smith and asked if I sent it to them if they would remove the internal lock. The immediate response was no. I asked why...was it a functional issue or a legal issue? They told me it was a legal issue and that the ATF would not be happy.

I completely disassembled the 642 and determined it was one piece that needs to be removed and doesn't affect the functionality at all...very simple.

I'm sorry, the protection of me and my family is more important than what the ATF thinks.

As of yet I have not pulled the lock out. I wanted some guidance from the forum. Unless I get some strong reasons not to, my plan is to remove it this weekend.

Thoughts?

 

[arjay]

Happens all the time,just save the parts for resale.

 

[IllinoisCCW]

Happens all the time,just save the parts for resale.

That's what I was thinking. It's just one small part.

 

[CCWKY]

It is not illegal to remove the lock from Smith & Wesson Revolvers. This is a common practice although it does not surprise me that Smith will not remove it, that could possibly create a liability for them. You can remove it yourself and even purchase a plug for the hole from Midway USA.

 

[CCWKY]

Forgot to mention that you can buy the 642 and 442 without the lock. You have to look around a little to find them but they are available.

 

[IllinoisCCW]

It is not illegal to remove the lock from Smith & Wesson Revolvers. This is a common practice although it does not surprise me that Smith will not remove it, that could possibly create a liability for them. You can remove it yourself and even purchase a plug for the hole from Midway USA.

Was on Midway website looking for the plug. Couldn't find it. Can you help?

 

[CCWKY]

Product # 134590 at Midway

 

[IllinoisCCW]

Product # 134590 at Midway

Got it. Thanks

 

[hsmith9491]

A member here sales them.

 

[IllinoisCCW]

A member here sales them.

I'm interested. Midway wants $1.99 and $3:00 shipping. Plus it's black. Is that the only color?

 

[.45mtngun]

I personally would pull the lock if you feel it causes concerns with the ability of the gun to protect your family. S&W won't be there to help you! I have pulled the mag "safety" on my Browning Hi-Powers that are set up for defense use so that if ever in a bad situation and the mag falls free, i'll still be able to use the last round in the gun. The Military sure as Hell doesn't use them on their handguns. Keep safe.
jim

 

[CCWKY]

The member here that makes them is member name (Bullseye Smith) He does make a nice plug in blue and stainless finish. I think he charges 25.00

 

[o3rugby1]

Like CCWKY says the member here makes a great plug. ive got a no plug 642 and they are scarce. Smith makes a limited run of both the 442 and 642.

 

[ken158]

Liability for the factory to say otherwise and ATF could care less...

 

[badge70]

never had a problem with my 686 -- fires every time

 

[Imaposer]

Or you could just grind the little nub off the "flag" and leave everything in place. The lock won't engage and lock the gun (the "nub" does that), you won't have holes, and you won't need a "plug" for the holes. The only caveat would be that you will still have the key portion that looks like it still has a lock, and if you ever do decide to sell, you can't easily put it back to stock.

Personally, on a carry piece, although I don't really like the looks of the lock, my main issue is the possibility of the gun becoming locked unintentionally. I don't want the holes, and I don't really want to pay for a plug just for the cosmetics. I never sell guns anyway, so I'm not worried about putting it back to stock. I just remove the nub and leave it at that.

 

[hotrod150]

Product # 134590 at Midway

I think that part is for the S&W M&P semi-auto's, according to Midway's description. I looked at the picture of the part & don't think it'd work for a revolver. If you want a plug, you gotta get it from Bullseye. I just removed the "flag" & left the keyhole part in place.
What are the official names for these two parts? I can't find a parts drawing/list anywhere for the 442/642 series so I can educate myself, and I'm getting tired of saying "the flag" & "the keyhole part".

 

[bigshep85]

I just came across this in the classifieds section, maybe you and this guy could work something out.


http://smith-wessonforum.com/accessories-misc-sale-trade/272433-wtt-plug-s-w-j-frame-ils-lock.html

 

[IllinoisCCW]

I think that part is for the S&W M&P semi-auto's, according to Midway's description. I looked at the picture of the part & don't think it'd work for a revolver. If you want a plug, you gotta get it from Bullseye. I just removed the "flag" & left the keyhole part in place.
What are the official names for these two parts? I can't find a parts drawing/list anywhere for the 442/642 series so I can educate myself, and I'm getting tired of saying "the flag" & "the keyhole part".

I did the same thing tonight. I took out the internal plate (lock) and that's it...I left the external key hole alone. Took it out and fired 50 rounds through it. Works great. Not sure if I did it right or not. The plate (lock) was one piece.

 

[CCWKY]

You are correct Hotrod. I just sent him a PM