New 642 snub nose carry

customf1

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Hi, I've never carried before but I'm trained and efficient with all types of guns. I chose the 642 airweight because is light and can handle +p loads. Another reason I like it is because its safe to carry in the front pocket because of the long trigger pull. Just wondering besides this being an awesome looking gun why others might choose this as their carry gun.
 
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I think you will find a large following for the 642 here. It is a very popular weapon for just the reason you bought it, pocket carry. While I do not have the 642, I do have a 640-1 which is a bit heavy for front pocket carry for me. I have a Wright Leather Works OWB holster ordered for it.

Good luck with the new gun.

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[/url]Guns 039ed2cf by Jerry Jaynes, on Flickr[/IMG]
 
When I was researching for a concealed carry gun, I had certain parameters in mind. It had to be dependable, lightweight, small enough for a pocket, in a caliber used at one time by either the military or police and lots of fun to shoot at the range. It came down to either a 442 or a 642. It just happened that someone at work had a used 442 that they shot once, cleaned and put in a drawer.
I bought it from them and did a detail clean.
After the onset of my motor nerve problems I took it apart, did a spring change, smoothed the guts a little with an extra fine Arkansas oil stone, changed to Pachmayr Compact grips and added a laserlyte side mount laser.
I made a few holsters and now it's my constant companion, either in my pocket or riding on my right hip loaded with 110 grain Federal Hydra-shoks, with a couple of loaded quick strips in my left front pocket.
 
I pocket carry a dashless 640, and the weight doesn't bother me. I've carried it that way daily for 16 years. I'm told it's a breeze with a 642, but the trade-off is snappier recoil than with an all-steel gun.

I strongly second the use of a pocket holster, not so much for safety as for keeping the gun from shifting position in the pocket. It also reduces printing and prevents pocket lint getting into the works via the trigger.
 
Welcome to the 642/442 club! :)

These are great little guns that I feel are a good balance of power and weight.

I carry one everyday as a back up gun to my model 10 or 3rd gen S&W pistol.

I would recommend a good pocket holster since you are going to pocket carry and picking up a copy of Ed Lovette's book "The snubby revolver." It's about the best $16 I've spent.
The Snubby Revolver: The ECQ, Backup, and Concealed Carry Standard: Ed Lovette, Bert DuVernay: 9781581605716: Amazon.com: Books@@AMEPARAM@@http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ubyt4e3tL.@@AMEPARAM@@51ubyt4e3tL

We like photos too. :D
 
I echo everyone here. I have a Shield 9 but it was too big to conceal unless I wore really baggy clothes. The 642 in a pocket holster (I use an Uncle Mike's) looks like a wallet, and is lightweight. When I carry, it is now my weapon of choice.
 
to the OP, you have excellent taste, and sound reasoning. It is my belief that the Airweight revolver in 38 plus P, will deliver the goods if called upon to do so.

My wife and I both carry Airweights--her's a 637(she likes a hammer) me a 642 pocket carry.
Enjoy yours.
 
This thread made the weekly Ampersand email and I had to join in. I could quote the opening, mostly!

Hi, I've never carried before but
I'm trained and efficient with all types of guns. I chose the 642 airweight because is light and can handle +p loads. Another reason I like it is because its safe to carry in the front pocket because of the long trigger pull. Just wondering besides this being an awesome looking gun why others might choose this as their carry gun.

The italicized part, of course, doesn't apply, I've been carrying pocket pistols for nearly 20 years, never mind belt guns. The rest is all good!!! Well done! ;)

***GRJ***
 
Mine goes with me daily in my computer case and can be transferred to pocket or holster as needed.

Jess
 

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642 with CT Laser

Been carrying the 652 with GD 135+P SB in a DeSantis Nemisis pocket holster in right front. Also, I found the CT Laser is a better grip than the factory. If the recoil can be tamed this grip helps. Still not a fun gun to shoot.

Best.
 
Congratuations on your gun. I have one and carry it often. I changed the grips to Pachmayr compacts. They handle the recoil great for a light weight gun.
If you're pocket carrying, get a pocket holster. I use a Mika. Much safer than carrying your gun loose in a pocket.

I second the Pac Compact grips! Comfy! Had them on a 36, but switched to RB smooth banana targets. Bob
 
I love my little scandium Smith and Wesson 340 but I have to admit I rarely carry it because I prefer either a magnum load or the additional capacity and bullet weight of a 45. it's also nice to have more than 5 rounds available. frankly, I don't think you really get The effect of a magnum round from a barrel as short as 2 inches. carrying A good 38 special round such as the hornady Critical Duty ammunition is probably just as effective in a snub nose gun. that should start an argument or two!
 
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