642 grip problem.

[Helderberg]

I have tried to use a speed loader with my 642 and have tried four different rubber grips. I have not found a set of grips that work with my loader without binding up. I have a HKS unit and like it but, as I said, it is not a smooth reload if at all. I need the rubber as my arthritis makes it tough to shoot and hold for follow up. Right now I am using Zip strips but would like to go with something faster in my nightstand. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Be safe, Frank.

[Realgunner]

Both my Uncle Mike's boot grip and my Crimson Trace LG-105 work fine with my HKS loaders, even with difficult full wadcutters! I suggest trying a different technique; like starting the loader at a little angle, with the rear moved out a little further from the grip. Practice!

[Shooter6br]

You tube has video My 638 has similar problems .The cylinder does not swing out far enough to make speed loaders easy to use BUT>>>>>>with practice and technique they work Watch video

[Shooter6br]

YouTube

[Shooter6br]

YouTube

[wesnellans]

To the OP: I had your problem. I tried Hogue boots, full-size Hogue, current production Smith boots, etc. None of the grips really cleared speed loaders properly. There was always some sort of hang up.

I happened to trade for a '92 vintage model 60 that sported the ORIGINAL Uncle Mike's boot grips equipped on many Smiths at the time - the ones that were licensed copies of the Spegel design (current Smith factory grips are similar, but have dimensional differences that interfere with loaders a bit). Lo and behold, speed loaders work with no issues.

Purchased two sets of them last month direct from Smith's close out section of their online store. Looks like they've still got some in stock.

$14.95 a set is a great price - but shipping is a little high, so I bought two to offset the price - it's not like I won't find use for them!

Turns out I shoot better with them, too. Win-win!

Product: J Round Boot Grip Uncle Mike's (No Logo)

EDIT: Guess it wasn't too much for shipping. $6.50 to ship, charged me sales tax. So two pair delivered to IN for $38.49. For grips that work. Good deal.

[4896worker]

Had the same problem with my 642 stock grips and aftermarket rubber. grips . I used a round or half round file rasp to remove material from the left side of grips for clearence for the speedloader . After using the file follow up with sandpaper and it blends in pertty good .

[haywood]

I ground mine on a grinder

[Helderberg]

Thank you all for your responses. I was wondering about grinding/fileing the rubber. Thanks for the photos and support.
Be safe, Frank.

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

Not sure, but I think that Safariland Comp I speedloaders are narrower in the body. Mine work fine with my 642 with old J-frame Magna grips. I think that most of the Goodyears are better than Magnas, but, of course, you'll know for sure only if you check them out. I think that cartridge OAL matters, also, so try them with what you're actually going to use.