442 No Lock theory

[rdc]

So is S&W still using up old frames for these or has that theory died since this is the 3rd or 4th batch. Just hoping the frames are new production.

 

[RightWinger]

To me its amazing that S&W is being so secretive about this, I'm not sure what the big deal is either way but you're right, they have had too many batches w/o locks lately to be new old stock frames....but who knows.

 

[twogunjay]

As far as I have been told, these are new production guns. The 642 and 442 no lock models were specifically (and wisely) "custom" ordered by RSR Group Gun Distributors. Essentially S&W, Colt, Ruger, etc. will just about make whatever you want them to make if you are contracting to purchase a large quantity from them. In the case of the 442's and 642's, the number was somewhere around 5,000 of each initially from what I've been told.

 

[batmann]

My understanding is the original batch from a couple years ago was from old frames, but because of the supplier demand, these are new frames.

 

[Combat_Diver]

Under the military rebate program at the end of the year, I ordered a New 442 no lock directly from Smith. It hasn't been shipped yet and it will be several more months before I can go home to pick it up. The new Pro Series 442/642 that are cut for moon clips do not have locks either.

CD

 

[Witryantum]

I stopped by the local pawn shop today to see if there were any deals. I was looking through a wholesale catalog and saw they had a special for 642's with NO LOCK.

They were not priced any different from the lock models.

 

[bassoneer]

I just bought a 642 no-lock and to my surprise it had two keys inside the box. I assume this is just a manufacturing protocol...the box goes down the assembly line and gets the manual (that covers several models) the cable lock, the keys for the internal lock, and the foam rubber. Then, whatever gun goes in there is covered whether it needs the IL lock keys or not. That's the only thing I can figure. I know someone else that got a gun like this and it had keys in the box also. Just thought that was interesting...but as long as there is no IL on the gun I am happy. B

 

[stiab]

I just bought a 642 no-lock and to my surprise it had two keys inside the box.

Is there a chance your gun does actually have a lock on the inside, covered up by a non-lock side plate? That would be evil of S&W...

 

[442js]

I just bought a 642 no-lock and to my surprise it had two keys inside the box. I assume this is just a manufacturing protocol...the box goes down the assembly line and gets the manual (that covers several models) the cable lock, the keys for the internal lock, and the foam rubber. Then, whatever gun goes in there is covered whether it needs the IL lock keys or not. That's the only thing I can figure. I know someone else that got a gun like this and it had keys in the box also. Just thought that was interesting...but as long as there is no IL on the gun I am happy. B

My 442-2 no-lock also came with the keys. I thought maybe the lock was hidden so that is why they included the keys, but guess not.

 

[Bearcat]

As far as I have been told, these are new production guns. The 642 and 442 no lock models were specifically (and wisely) "custom" ordered by RSR Group Gun Distributors. Essentially S&W, Colt, Ruger, etc. will just about make whatever you want them to make if you are contracting to purchase a large quantity from them. In the case of the 442's and 642's, the number was somewhere around 5,000 of each initially from what I've been told.

"The customer is always right"!