dpast32
Member
In my experience, these little J Frames just seem to run forever, unless of course you purposely abuse it. I currently possess 2_or these extremely reliable weapons, my 642 2", & my 640 3". Naturally of course, the 640 which sports the 3" HB tends to shoot much tighter groups, although this is to be expected due to its barrel & steel frame. Just for the record though, my 642 which came Factory Magna-Ported is quite controllable, just not quite as accurate as my steel framed 3". Personally, I would just LOVE the 3" to have an Alloy Frame, & everything else as it is, 3" HB, etc. IIRC, S&W began Cataloging the 3" 642's shortly after their introduction, yet I don't think any 3" models were ever produced for some reason. If I had to venture a guess, S&W probably assumed the Alloy 3" wouldn't sell ? As for the O/P, I tend to prefer the Buffalo Bore 150 gr. [?] Full Wadcutter [ Hard Cast, w/ Sharp Cut Face ] for any up close & personal work for my 2". The 3" is 'somewhat' more likely to initiate projectile expansion, although with .38 Spl.+P velocities nothing is a given. At this point in time, I've accepted the fact that the 5 rd J Frames are best utilized for close in, rapidly produced [ drawn ] self defense work. I believe that they excell for that particular mission. I like the fact that in the cooler / colder months, I can simply put either of mine, 640 or 642 in my coat pocket, & even fire it that way should the need arise. [ AND YES, you might wish to dump your coat almost immediately after the situation has been neutralized, as it probably be on fire, or at least smoldering. ] For anything other than over the 7 yard line, I usually call upon my Kahr PM9, although my 3" 640 would suffice up to a point. SORRY for my apparent Post Jacking, as it wasn't intended. O/P, Enjoy your little 640, as it should serve you quite well.
Best, Dom P. / dpast32
Best, Dom P. / dpast32