Let me pick your brains...

Dude Jones · #1 10-26-2009, 11:42 AM

I am semi new to handguns. I have always had bb and .177 air guns and .22lr but I have only recently got into handguns. I have a couple of semis(SW9VE AF, Bersa thunder .380 and a Bersa Thunder 9)and a .22lr/mag Heritage arms single action revolver. Yeah I know its a cheap gun but its a lot of fun to shoot.

I think its about time to add a S&W revolver to my collection I am wanting a .38spl for CCW. I really think I would like a j frame snub and a good pocket holster. I was considering this one.

Smith & Wesson 442 .38 Spl+P 1-7/8" Black for Sale at Buds Gun Shop $432.00

But I wanted to ask you all if there is something else I should consider? I don't have a ton of money to spend so I really wanting to get the best bang for my buck.

OKFC05 · #2 10-26-2009, 11:56 AM

My 442 shows a lot of pocket holster wear from many years of carrying. It is probably the most popular pocket revolver.

That said, it can be a challenge to shoot if you are new to revolvers.

I haven't bought a new one in so long I can't comment on the price you quoted.

PALADIN85020 · #3 10-26-2009, 12:08 PM

The 442 would be a great choice; it's the one I often use. I would suggest you get one without the internal lock (ugly hole right above the cylinder release indicates the gun has one). Smith has made a limited run without the lock and that is the one you want. The finish has held up well for me. I've equipped mine with Barami Hip-grips, which allow pocket carry or inside-the-pants carry without a holster, and a Tyler T-grip to allow a more substantial grip using the Hip-grips. Here's mine:

For pictures of other choices and the pros and cons of many J-frames, visit my picture album on compact CCW handguns. Click "Community", click "Pictures & Albums" and click on "For Emergency Use Only." That might be helpful to you.

Again, I would avoid any revolver that has the internal lock. It's rare, but the lock has sometimes malfunctioned and caused a jam - this is not a good thing in a defense revolver. If you can't find a new one without the lock, try to get an older Centennial or Bodyguard at a gun show - no locks to worry about with the older guns.

Good luck!

John

murphydog · #4 10-26-2009, 12:43 PM

Hi, the 442 is a good choice, but as noted above practice is essential. Other options are the 642 (silver anodized frame and stainless barrel/cylinder, but mechanically similar), and the all-steel 40 and stainless 640. There are a fair number of all these in nice used condition on the online gun auction sites. I personally recommend the Mika pocket holster for carry, inexpensive and well-made.

luis · #5 10-26-2009, 06:44 PM

I agree it is a great gun. Call Buds and see if they have any of them without the lock. They sell several hundred guns a day and the website is sometimes slow to upload new stock. The ILS free guns are still being produced.

DC7 · #6 10-27-2009, 12:07 AM

You can't go wrong with a 442, unless you're in an area of such high humidity that the carbon steel cylinder starts to rust. And if that's the case, just get the nearly identical stainless Airweight 642 instead. The 442 is one of the best CCW revolvers made, and I carry one regularly. As others have mentioned, you should look for one without an internal lock.

You could spend a lot more for an AirLite 340 and save a couple more ounces in weight, but the 442 or 642 will definitely give you more bang for the buck.

Dude Jones · #7 10-27-2009, 01:20 PM

Thanks for the info guys. It has been a big help. I think I will go with the 442 without the lock.

I do live in a area with high humidity but I am almost obsessive about cleaning my guns. It will get at least a good wipe down every night and good cleaning once a week or so.