642-2

[got2hav1]

I just joined the forum after purchasing a 642-2 with CT grips. I really like the little gun. I have a question about the IL. Is it a really big issue. Any problems with the guns so equipped. Why does everyone seem to prefer the earlier guns. A newbie just wondering. Thanks.

 

[ladder13]

I just joined the forum after purchasing a 642-2 with CT grips. I really like the little gun. I have a question about the IL. Is it a really big issue. Any problems with the guns so equipped. Why does everyone seem to prefer the earlier guns. A newbie just wondering. Thanks.

First of all, welcome to the Forum. Some folks have claimed/seen IL lock failures where the gun becomes inoperable. Seems to be an issue with the ultra lightweight models ie scandium.
I have 1 locked gun, a S&W M500. If they made one without the lock I'd sell it. The issue to me, is asthetics, they put the lock in a horrible place. I would have preffered, other than no lock, that they hid it under the grips.
Some buy "the plug" and replace the lock. IMO, and my opinion only, it still locks awful.
You could have gotten a brand new 642 without the lock also.
Take this all for what it's worth.

 

[got2hav1]

First of all, welcome to the Forum. Some folks have claimed/seen IL lock failures where the gun becomes inoperable. Seems to be an issue with the ultra lightweight models ie scandium.
I have 1 locked gun, a S&W M500. If they made one without the lock I'd sell it. The issue to me, is asthetics, they put the lock in a horrible place. I would have preffered, other than no lock, that they hid it under the grips.
Some buy "the plug" and replace the lock. IMO, and my opinion only, it still locks awful.
You could have gotten a brand new 642 without the lock also.
Take this all for what it's worth.

Thanks for the response. I just did some reading after performing a search in the IL. Looks like most would perfer they did not have the lock. I fall into that category but I bought one anyway. Hopefully I'll have no issues the look really does not bother me one way or the other.

 

[indiandave]

I have had a model 642 for about 4 years. I've put more rounds then I can count through her. Never had any trouble, she's been very dependable.

 

[got2hav1]

I have had a model 642 for about 4 years. I've put more rounds then I can count through her. Never had any trouble, she's been very dependable.

Thanks, after spending some time here I have come to realize what a popular model the 642 is. I assume its because of its ideal size and performance. I am quite pleased with my purchase.

 

[ladder13]

For a small dependable 38 snub, the 442/642 cannot be beat. With the $50 rebate, makes it a screamin' deal.

 

[got2hav1]

For a small dependable 38 snub, the 442/642 cannot be beat. With the $50 rebate, makes it a screamin' deal.

Thanks for the reply. One question. Do you have to apply for the rebate or is it sent to you when you register the warranty info at SW?

 

[Beancounter81]

Thanks for the reply. One question. Do you have to apply for the rebate or is it sent to you when you register the warranty info at SW?

There's a form that you fill out and mail in - available on S&W website.

 

[Big Cholla]

My wife has carried a 642 CCW for the past four years. Hers has the lock which we unlocked while in the car driving away from the dealer. It has never been relocked. She practices regularly and has never experienced any sort of malfunction because of the lock. I did a minor action job on the 642 and noted that the unlocked lock was not going to influence the trigger pull in the least. Neither of us have any problem with owning a pistol with the dreaded 'lock'. I thought about buying and installing the 'plug' but just don't see any big reason to mess with the situation. ...... Big Cholla

 

[bennettfam]

If I had no other choice at all I would consider the 642 with the IL. They are just great little revolvers. But having a choice I would never own a revolver with a lock.

I'm sure yours will be just fine. Enjoy it.