Model 042

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Anything special about the Model 042 ? Seems like a nice piece. Any info would greatly be appreciated.

John I.
 
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The 042 was an uncataloged model built in the early 90's using cosmetically-imperfect 642 frames. Here's a good article on the subject:

The Gun Zone -- S&W Model 042

I've got a couple of them--one has the high-polish blue finish, and it's absolutely gorgeous. The other is the matte version of the same gun, and looks a lot like the Model 442 that was introduced later.
 
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I think they are special, most attractive of the centennials, in my opinion. Does yours have an overstamped model number? Does it have the serial number stamped in the bottom of the top strap (above the cylinder)?

Yes to both. I picked it up for what I think was a song. It has a very low round count as the recoil shield is spotless and a very very faint dragline. It has the original box numbered to the gun and all docs. The only issue is 2 small nicks one on each side of the frame where a hammer would be. They are about the size of a pencil point. Outside of that it's pristine. Any idea what this is valued at?
Many thanks,
John
 
The 042 was an uncataloged model built in the early 90's using cosmetically-imperfect 642 frames. Here's a good article on the subject:

The Gun Zone -- S&W Model 042

I've got a couple of them--one has the high-polish blue finish, and it's absolutely gorgeous. The other is the matte version of the same gun, and looks a lot like the Model 442 that was introduced later.

Thanks for the link it was a GREAT read!!
 
Thanks for the link it was a GREAT read!!



You're welcome! Here's some additional info about the 042 that I found in a factory letter:
  • The cylinders and barrels are blued carbon steel
  • The yokes are stainless steel with a "midnight black" finish
  • The aluminum frames were given a black anodized finish
  • Total production of the Model 042 was 4,415 units
I'm not sure what they're really worth today, but on GunBroker some people are willing to pay a pretty high price. Three weeks ago a high-polish 042 described as 100% NIB sold for $750 + shipping, and last week the bidding for a matte-finish 042 (also described as 100% NIB) exceeded $700, but the gun didn't sell because the seller had an even higher reserve!

I thought I paid a lot for mine a couple years back when I gave another forum member $550 (including shipping) for the 042 pictured below. Seems like that would be a real deal today!
4h1kqrc.jpg


Interestingly, the 042 pictured above shows no sign of a model number overstamp...
1zf0ojm.jpg


...while the matte-finish version I found later is clearly overstamped:
voqy4h.jpg
 
I'd say the 042 in the condition listed is worth $450-$550..
Maybe More??
Is yours the "High Polished" or "Matte Finish"??
Post a Pic if Possible..
Congrats on super fine carry weapon..
You up Late/Early Dan?? It's 4:16am Here..

Gary/Hk
 
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