The consensus often seems to be: don't buy a new "classic" when the old ones are still available and affordable by comparison.

But I don't see that many real classic S&W's for sale, of ANY model. At least for a sane price. The new Model 42 doesn't have a lock, from what I can see.

And to be perfectly frank, to buy one in the pristine condition of a new 42 would be very expensive. It'd be kind of nice to own at least one classic in that kind of condition. Love the looks of the 42, and Bud's has them for $533, I think.

Opinions welcome. - Jim

I had one of the classic Model 40's in nickel, and it was every bit as good of quality as my pinned nickel Model 10 snub from 1977. Like a fool, I sold it for something I just had to have at the time, and ended up with a 642-1 to replace it. It too has no lock, and forged internals to boot. I'd like to have one of the new 42's, but budget dictates against it now. What surprises me is how you almost NEVER hear about them on this forum, or any other. They seem like a very viable option to me, and a pretty cool variation on what many consider the quinessential carry gun.

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MARK