642 3in Airweight Questions

[former173rd]

Hello all! New to the forum, not to Smiths! My question is to keep this gun or go for a 66 snubbie. I recentlly got this and have heard they are prone to frame cracks. And, if possible, its worth, as I can't find one anywhere for comps. Here goes with my info:
Model = 642
Hand Ejector
SN = BFV 8412
38 SPL. CTG
Barrel = 3 in
Fixed Sights
3 Screws
Frame = Polished Aluminum, I think (non-magnetic)
Whattcha think?

 

[Dump1567]

Per the S&W Standard Catalog, it might be product code 103798 which has a 3" barrel & was only made in 1991. The serial number also fits in that time frame. The original 642 model was available from 1990-1992, discontinued due to finish issues, and re-introduced in 1996 with the J Magnum frame. So, it's somewhat scarce, but that doesn't always equate to value. Personally, due to its limited production, I'd probably try to sell it to someone who would appreciate what it is. I really have no idea what the value is, but you could probably list it here with a price around $700 obo. Or throw it up on GB and see if there's a market for it.

These frames can crack, but S&W are usually good at replacing the gun with a new one. This being a limited production gun though, they'd probably replace it with the standard 2" model.

As far as carrying, that's a personal choice on what you shoot the best & tolerance for size & weight.

 

[former173rd]

Good counsel sir. I've carried a 66 snubbie before, and although heavier, loaded with +P it is a reliable EDC. Maybe I'll see if a 3 in is offered now. It wasn't when I was with the NC SBI.

 

[photoman]

Those are hard to find! I would sell it to someone who collects and buy a more standard gun to carry every day.

 

[former173rd]

Those are hard to find! I would sell it to someone who collects and buy a more standard gun to carry every day.

Yep, that’s the plan. So, what’s your thoughts about an asking price, if you don’t mind me asking.

 

[photoman]

Yep, that’s the plan. So, what’s your thoughts about an asking price, if you don’t mind me asking.

Hard to say. They don't come up for sale often. I would guess from $500 up to who knows how much. I've seen some crazy prices on Gunbroker!

 

[former173rd]

Thanks!......I'm trying hard to develop some optomism.

 

[Cartwright Jones]

Hello all! New to the forum, not to Smiths! My question is to keep this gun or go for a 66 snubbie. I recentlly got this and have heard they are prone to frame cracks. And, if possible, its worth, as I can't find one anywhere for comps. Here goes with my info:
Model = 642
Hand Ejector
SN = BFV 8412
38 SPL. CTG
Barrel = 3 in
Fixed Sights
3 Screws
Frame = Polished Aluminum, I think (non-magnetic)
Whattcha think?

I love the gun and the photos but I'm not sure I can agree on selling this gun for a M66. The M66 is much heavier compared to an airweight - even a 3 inch version. I guess it depends on what you want to do with whatever gun. Weight, not bulk is the true enemy of concealed carry, and the old, garden variety 158 grain LSWC .38 Special load will easily punch clean through which is the "gold standard" of true stopping power from one who grew up "back in the day." A 3" barrel makes virtually no difference to carry with an alloy J-frame, but it does give more velocity. S&W M66 are a dime a dozen. The other poster has already told you this one was of limited issue.

p.s. I was too late to serve in the 173rd, but I certainly know all about it! I served in the 2/504th in the 82nd Abn in the years just after Vietnam. Thank you for your service!

 

[former173rd]

I took it off the auction today. I think it has found its resting place for awhile,
I’ve been to Ft Bragg twice , once for basic in’68 and again in the o’70’s The 173rd was in 69-70 RVN.
You’re welcome, and thanks for your service as well .

 

[Exchipy]

The M66 is much heavier compared to an airweight - even a 3 inch version. I guess it depends on what you want to do with whatever gun. Weight, not bulk is the true enemy of concealed carry …

I’m on an out-of-state road trip, right now, and carrying this M66 in a shoulder holster for what it can offer at increased distance:



But, its weight is starting to become a distraction. I’m thinking that maybe I’d be better off to have brought this M642 instead:

 

[Zeke38]

3" 642 Sign me up! Great carry piece.

 

[Exchipy]

3" 642 Sign me up! Great carry piece.

Though preservationist collector types will cry out in horror, I heartily recommend the XS Big Dot Tritium Yellow front sight modification for integral front sight J-Frames. Here’s what one on a 2” M642 can do, if you’re careful to mind the basics:


(Once again, there’s just gotta be that one stray to spoil things.)

 

[Exchipy]

If you don’t mind a bit more weight than a M642, but certainly less than a M66, M60-4 Target Revolvers can still be found for not a whole bunch of money:



This one is shown with an XS pinned Big Dot Tritium Yellow front sight and a S&W V notch rear sight blade. I don’t have a target photo showing results with the XS sight. But, here’s what it did with the factory sights:


(These damned things are like LEGOs, as you can switch parts back and forth on them at the slightest whim.)

 

[Dirtman]

3" 642 Sign me up! Great carry piece.

I have a S&W 442 and my wife has a S&W 642 both with Crimson Trace red dot grips. Great little carry guns. Sometimes I carry my 442 but most of the time I carry my little 40 cal. S & W Shield. The Crimson Trace red dots sure make them accurate enough!