340 pd Versus 442/642

[P&R Fan]

If you look just above the cylinder release on new S&W revolvers you'll see a little hole with an arrow and an "L". That's the lock. It apparently locks the trigger and hammer (if it has an external hammer). The cylinder can be opened but the gun cannot be fired. I say "apparently" because that's what I've read. I've never activated it on my 340PD, so I don't know first hand.
The lock came into effect in about 2002. Most of us hate the lock, and value the ones that are lockless. We live on the edge and are willing to trust our own training rather than a mechanical lock. Go figure.
I even run with scissors.

 

[Roger S&W]

LOL So, the "lock only applies to models with an external hammer....that won't be me then.

What about trigger pull? The same for internal vs. external hammer? About 10-12 lbs???

 

[Roger S&W]

I think I'm leaning torward the 340M&P now cause of the night sights and only 2 oz. heavier than the 340PD which that HIVIZ is fiber optic....you know what that means? Could break easily, esp. for a carry gun???

 

[P&R Fan]

The lock is on the concealed hammer guns too, including the 340PD I have in my pocket right now.
I understand the company is making some without it now, in fact there's a thread on here about it somewhere.

 

[Roger S&W]

Oh yeah, I just saw that thread, wow...apparently everyone hates "the lock" and newer models have been released without it. Thanks for the tip. What is it anyway? A safety feature? Does it somehow negatively affect the functioning of the gun? Or just something you feel is unneccesary?

 

[rondo]

Roger,

There is a "sticky" thread at the top of this forum that is all about the lock. More info than you ever wanted to know all in one place.

 

[Dump1567]

Oh yeah, I just saw that thread, wow...apparently everyone hates "the lock" and newer models have been released without it. Thanks for the tip. What is it anyway? A safety feature? Does it somehow negatively affect the functioning of the gun? Or just something you feel is unneccesary?

The concern is the lock engaging on its own on guns with heavy recoil (ie: like the 340pd) and seizing-up the gun.

There have been documented cases of this.

A gunsmith can remove the internal lock mechanism (I usually do it on my guns). Some feel this is a liability issue as you've disabled a "safety feature". And if you're ever in court for a self-defense shooting, this could come-up.

Hence why most prefer a model with no lock (the way the gun was originally designed).

A search will reveil countless discussions on this topic.

 

[Roger S&W]

Dump, that was most appreciated, you gave me an overall idea of the main potential problem and pointed me in the right direction for further research. Thanks again, sir.

 

[Roger S&W]

So, if I'd like to buy a newer revolver with "no lock" the way to verify this is by looking at the acronyms that follow the model type? When I place my order at Buds, I'll need to specify or verify this---- For example here : (Which I got from a recent thread here)

From the S&W Distributor RSR:

SW103043FC S&W 43C 1.875" 22LR BL AL CENT NO IL


SW103061FC S&W 340PD AIRLT SC 357 1.875" NO LCK


SW103072FC S&W M&P340 1.875" 357 BLK SC NO LCK


SW103351FC S&W 351C 1.875" 22WMR BL AL NO IL


SW103810FC S&W 642 1.875" 38SPL STS CENT WO/IL


SW150544FC S&W 442 1.8725" 38SPL MATTE BL WO/IL

 

[Roger S&W]

Looks like it may be very tough to find one according to some members here.

 

[Roger S&W]

Just wanted to thank the OP and all members as this thread helped me alot. I just went ahead and ordered the 442 NO LOCK at Buds for $438.00!!!

 

[Roger S&W]

Also, whatever you decide, S&W is offering a $50 rebate on certain J frame revolvers.

Dump, thanks for pointing that out, man! Just ordered my 442 NO LOCK.

 

[Dump1567]

Dump, thanks for pointing that out, man! Just ordered my 442 NO LOCK.

Good choice. I have a 642.

You can also replace the grips with something lighter and knock-off a few more onces from the weight.

I like the Hogue bantam.

 

[Poohgyrr]

. :::: ordered the 442. ::::

Congrats. For myself, that is the best combination of light weight vs more recoil in a carry revolver. Those Airweights have been very popular for a long time.

 

[Roger S&W]

Good choice. I have a 642.

You can also replace the grips with something lighter and knock-off a few more onces from the weight.

I like the Hogue bantam.

The grips the 442 comes with are not rubber? I think I'd prefer rubber grips if it doesn't. Yeah, 442 seems like a great carry revolver at a decent price and it's a NO LOCK!

 

[Dump1567]

The grips the 442 comes with are not rubber? I think I'd prefer rubber grips if it doesn't. Yeah, 442 seems like a great carry revolver at a decent price and it's a NO LOCK!

The 442 originally came with Uncle Mikes boot grips (rubber). Not sure what the model you ordered comes with.

The Uncle Mike boot grips have some weight to them. The Hogue bantam grips practically weighs nothing.

442 with Uncle Mike Grips:

Here's the Hogue. (I'm sure there's other lightweight grips out there).

Hogue Bantam Grips with Top Finger Groove S&W J-Frame Round Butt Rubber Black - MidwayUSA

 

[Roger S&W]

Ah, thank you. Very nice. You guys are very generous and helpful to revolver newbies.

Oh, are snap caps recommended for dry firing a revolver with an internal hammer like the 442?

 

[jds3]

If you plan to pocket carry the 342/340 platform is well worth the additional bucks. Other than that, you will not notice much difference.

 

[Roger S&W]

Those Bantam Hogue thin rubber grips shown above are two piece panel type grips? Where's the screw to secure them? Do they just simply snap into place? If so, how secure is that for EDC?
If I go with the the Hogue Rubber Monogrip, does that take alot away from concealabilty? Alot of extra weight? They just slip on?
I bet they're comfortable though especially for the backstrap part of the hand.

 

[No Deal]

Well the first page of this thread actually addressed my question. Thanks to those who responded about the topic. Roger, thanks for derailing the thread into your personal discussion of lock v no lock, 442 grips, etc.