442 - craked frame - pics

[socktyr]

I have not heard or seen of this before. Bought new 2008, 400 rounds, 75% standard pressure, 25% +p. Thoughts?

[Waywatcher]

Where's the crack?

I have a 442 and, near as I can tell, mine looks the same as yours.

[Autococker07]

I have heard the airweights are usually cracked when the barrel is installed (or reinstalled). I would call S&W for a return tag, but keep shooting it and just watch the crack... It is probably just a stress failure that has taken a bit to manifest.... I would bet they would replace it for you.

[Old cop]

I just looked at my 442-1 and it looks the same as yours, I don't think this is a cracked frame. Mine appears arrow straight and looks like part of the machining of the gun. As a precaution I also checked my 1962 Model 38 but this was a pinned barrel and looks different.

[Macinaw]

Usually cracks happen under the barrel like this.

[MrSurly]

the cracking that famously occurs with these is typically on the flat of the frame in the yoke area, which is the thinnest area around the barrel threads. You'll have to open the yoke to see this.

[socktyr]

Interesting, I never noticed it before. It has a downward bend to it and is deep enough to catch a fingernail on. In addition there is a shorter one just below at the barrel end. Opposite side is smooth. I will keep an eye on it if the consensus is that it is safe to use. Thanks.

[wrangler5]

My 442 and 638 (alloy) and 649 (stainless) frames all have that tiny "shelf" on the left (cylinder opening) side, while the other side is smooth. That's normal, although I've always wondered just why it's there on only one side.

But I would say that what looks like the beginnings of a tiny crack below that shelf is NOT normal. If that smaller crack (or whatever) is indeed an irregularity that you can feel with a fingernail, I think I would be on the phone to S&W pronto, and let them tell me if it's a potential problem or not.

[DeeBee]

Looks normal to me.

[slabside2]

Just checked my 438 and it looks the same. By the way mine just got back from S&W for another issue and I would think if it was a crack they would have noticed it.....you'ed think anyway

[TheHobbyist]

that is just machining; be calm and carry on.

[Joe A.]

Both my 637 and 638 has the same mark. Also, I noticed my unpinned Model 66 has a similar mark on the opposite side.

[skeete]

Cracks are usually jagged. Does this "crack" continue 90 degrees around the frame?
I looked at several of my 642's and while they have a edge you can feel it is normal. I would say if the "crack" continues around the frame it might be serious but I doubt it is serious.

Can you let us know if it wraps around 90 degrees?

[socktyr]

It does not appear to wrap 90 degrees. Thanks to all for the input, very helpful.